Form of offer
For properties in the Edinburgh/Glasgow area we use the standard form of offer known as the Harthill Missive.
This offer has been created by a team of solicitors from the Central Belt and takes account of the interests of both Purchaser and Seller and is intended to speed up the process of concluding a contract.
We recommend that you use this compromise style of offer, however if requested by you in writing we could prepare a tailor made offer to suit your particular requirements and weighted in your favour. This may incur additional costs above those estimated to you, and you should bear in mind that such an offer is likely to be heavily qualified by the Seller, bringing it back to the "compromise" position.
The offer will specify the price offered, your preferred date for paying the price and taking entry as well as any moveable items that are to be included in the price. It will also includes a damages provision against you and in favour of the Seller. This provides that if you do not pay the price by 3pm on the date of entry (unless fault lies with the Seller) the Seller will have the option to seek damages from you.
All contract letters are signed by us but are binding on you
In Scotland, solicitors sign the contract letters or missives on behalf of their clients but only after taking instructions, normally verbally, from their clients. Please remember this when you tell us to make an offer or to accept any of the subsequent contract letters. We sign the offer and acceptance letters as agents on your behalf and they are then binding on you.
Purchase by more than one party
In situations where we are instructed to submit the offer in two or more names we can, if instructed, take those instructions from all interested parties however this can be cumbersome and cause unwanted delay. In those circumstances we would invite you to give written authority to one party to issue instructions on behalf of both or all parties and those instructions will be then be binding on all parties. You will also need to give consideration to how you wish the title to the property to be taken. There are various options which can have far reaching legal consequences and our conveyancing team will be happy to provide you with the necessary advice and guidance.
We will meet with you to discuss your offer strategy to ensure that we get the best deal for you. Arrange an appointment: click here
