Reserve Your Property

Secure your Highlight

We understand that buying a home is a big step, and our role is to make that process as straightforward and well-supported as possible.

Our 10-step approach is designed to keep things simple, transparent, and efficient – guiding you from initial enquiry right through to moving in. At each stage, we’ll provide clear information, respond to questions promptly, and keep you updated so you know exactly what to expect and when.

We work with both private sellers and new build developers, and we take the time to understand your needs, eligibility, and preferred timescales – helping match you to the right property and guiding you through reservation, paperwork, and handover.

Whether you’re buying your first home, securing a property through a shared equity or shared ownership scheme, or relocating to a new area, our team will ensure your experience is professional, personal, and well-managed from start to finish.

Our Buying Process

Your Simple 10-Step Guide

Initial Enquiry

Take the first step towards securing your new home by submitting your initial enquiry for your chosen property. This allows us to gather the essential details we need to guide you through the process and provide you with the right support.

Register your details to stay informed about future homes, or register your interest for a specific property using our New Buyer Registration Form.

If you’re purchasing through a Shared Ownership or Shared Equity scheme, we ask that you complete our Low-Cost Homeownership Application Form. This allows us to assess your eligibility and ensure we have the right information to support your application. 

Once your application is submitted, the next step is to carry out an affordability assessment. This ensures your dream home aligns with your financial circumstances, giving you the confidence to move forward in the process.

Highlight have partnered with new-build mortgage specialists Mortgage Advice Bureau, to provide expert advice and guidance during this stage. Their team will work with you to review your finances and assess your ability to secure a mortgage.

After completing your affordability assessment, the next step is to submit your formal offer to buy your chosen property in writing. Email [email protected]. This confirms your commitment and allows us to move forward with the reservation process.

Our team will provide you with clear guidance on what to include in your offer and ensure all necessary details are covered.

Once your offer has been accepted, the next step is to reserve your property. This ensures the home is secured for you and allows the process to progress towards completion.

If purchasing a new build property, you’ll be required to pay a reservation fee, as directed by the housebuilder, housing association, or property developer. This fee confirms your commitment and secures the property exclusively for you while legal and financial arrangements are completed.

The next crucial step is to appoint your chosen solicitor to handle the legal aspects of your purchase. This should be done immediately upon reservation, or within a maximum of 5 days to ensure the process progresses smoothly and without delays.

Your solicitor will manage the legal paperwork, conduct property checks, and liaise with the housebuilder, housing association, or property developer on your behalf. It’s essential to choose a solicitor experienced in affordable property transactions to ensure everything is handled professionally and efficiently.

If needed, our team can provide recommendations and guidance to help you make the right choice.

As part of the mortgage process, your lender will arrange for a valuation of the property to ensure it is worth the amount you’re borrowing. This step is an important part of the homebuying journey, as it confirms the property’s value and helps secure your mortgage offer.

The valuation will typically be organised by your lender after you’ve submitted your mortgage application. Your solicitor and the lender will liaise directly to ensure the valuation is completed promptly, keeping your purchase on track.

Receiving your mortgage offer is a significant milestone on your journey to homeownership. Once your lender has reviewed your application and completed the valuation, they will issue a formal mortgage offer confirming the loan amount and terms.

Typically, it takes 2 to 4 weeks to receive your mortgage offer, depending on your lender’s processing times and the complexity of your application. Your solicitor will receive a copy of the offer and ensure all the details align with your purchase agreement. This offer represents the financial approval needed to proceed to the final stages of buying your new home.

Completion is the final step in the buying process – the point at which legal ownership transfers and the keys to your new home are released.

Once missives are concluded, both parties are legally committed to the sale. Your solicitor will then prepare for settlement by arranging the transfer of funds, and submitting the application to register the title in your name with Registers of Scotland.

On the agreed date of entry, your solicitor will confirm that funds have been received by the seller’s solicitor.

The handover marks the most exciting moment of your home buying journey, receiving the keys to your new home.

Once completion is confirmed, we will arrange handover of your property to you. If possible, your dedicated Highlight representative will also be present on the day to welcome you into your new home.

Congratulations!

Find Your Highlight

Your Journey to Your Future Home

We are dedicated to helping people find the home that matches their needs and aspirations. By offering personalised support at every stage, we recognise the unique requirements of individuals and families and are committed to working alongside you to ensure that you feel confident and secure throughout your home buying journey.

Start your journey to Find Your Highlight today. Get in touch, ask questions, and connect with our team. Each step you take brings you closer to opening the door to your future home.

Compare listings

Compare