When preparing to sell your home or remortgage in Scotland, one of the key steps in the process is undergoing a mortgage valuation. A mortgage valuation helps lenders assess the value of your property to determine how much they are willing to lend. While this can seem like a straightforward task, how you prepare your home can influence the valuation. Here’s how you can ensure your property is in the best possible shape before the valuation takes place.
Clean and declutter your home
The first step is to clean and declutter. A tidy, well-maintained home creates a positive impression, especially in the Scottish property market, where presentation can make all the difference. Ensure that all rooms are accessible and free from unnecessary items, as a cluttered space can make it difficult for the surveyor to assess the property accurately. It’s also worth giving your home a deep clean, focusing on areas like kitchens and bathrooms that valuers may scrutinise more closely. Clean windows and well-maintained garden spaces can also improve the overall appeal of your property, especially in urban areas like Edinburgh or Glasgow, where first impressions count.
Take care of minor repairs
Next, take care of any minor repairs. If there are small issues such as leaking taps, chipped paint, or broken tiles, take the time to fix them. While these might not drastically affect the valuation, they can give the impression that your home is well cared for, which can positively influence the surveyor’s assessment. In Scotland, properties with damp issues or draughts, especially in older buildings or flats in cities like Aberdeen or Inverness, should be checked and addressed before the valuation. If your property has any major issues, such as structural problems, it may be worth addressing them beforehand, or at the very least, being prepared to explain them and offer solutions.
Gather all relevant documents
Another important step is to gather all relevant documents. These might include the property’s title deeds, any recent surveys or inspections, and information about any improvements or extensions made to the property. For properties in Scotland, having a Home Report—which includes a property survey, energy performance certificate, and valuation—can be particularly useful. Having these on hand can help streamline the valuation process and provide the surveyor with the information they need, especially in the Scottish market, where Home Reports are standard for properties being sold.
Ensure the property is well lit and visible
Finally, ensure that the property is well lit and that all areas are easily visible during the valuation. A well-presented home can help demonstrate its true potential, which can influence the final assessment. If you live in a flat or tenement building in Scotland, make sure that communal areas are tidy as well, as these can impact the surveyor’s perception of the property.
Ready for your mortgage valuation in Scotland?
If you’re preparing for a mortgage valuation, make sure you’re ready to showcase your home at its best.
Contact us today for expert advice and guidance on preparing your home for a successful mortgage valuation in Scotland.
