Frequently Asked Questions
How much does SCOUTT charge?
A commFor our full property search and acquisition service, our fee is 1% of the asking price, payable on exchange.
encement fee of 10% of the anticipated fee is payable when we begin the search and is deducted from the final amount.
SCOUTT is not currently VAT registered, so no VAT is charged.
What does the property search service include?
We manage the search from initial brief through to purchase. This includes researching suitable areas, searching the open market, speaking directly to estate agents, exploring off-market and pre-market opportunities, previewing properties where appropriate, assessing value and potential, and negotiating on your behalf.
The aim isn't to show you more property. It's to find the right one.
Do you only look at properties advertised online?
No. Property portals are an important part of the search, but we don't rely on them alone.
We speak directly to agents and look for properties before they are widely marketed, opportunities that have fallen through or been overlooked, and properties whose potential may not be obvious from the listing.
Can you help if I live overseas?
Yes. We can manage your London property search while you're abroad, including researching areas, speaking to agents and previewing properties on your behalf.
When something is genuinely worth considering, we'll give you an independent view so you can decide whether to pursue it or arrange a visit.
What if I've already found a property?
You don't need to use our full search service.
Our Property Check service is for buyers who have already found a property and would like an independent second opinion before committing.
We can look at the property, its asking price, comparable sales, location, condition and potential, and help you work out your next steps.
Where does SCOUTT search?
We specialise in London and commutabale to London.
We have also carried out searches for clients wishing to buy in Europe.
Every search begins with understanding how you want to live rather than simply asking for a list of postcodes. If another area could give you more of what you're looking for, we'll tell you.
Do you work for the estate agent or seller?
No. SCOUTT works for the buyer.
The selling agent represents the seller. Our role is to represent your interests throughout the search and purchase, from assessing whether a property is right for you to advising on value and negotiating on your behalf.