McInnes backs government help for 1st time buyers

11.03.00am GMT Fri 1st Feb 2008

North East Liberal Democrat MSP Alison McInnes today welcomed the proposed introduction of single seller surveys for those looking to sell their homes.

SNP Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell announced that the new system for property sales could be in place by the end of this year. The system will see those selling their homes providing a detailed survey for would-be buyers, costing between £350 and £600, thereby negating the need for each prospective buyer to carry out costly individual surveys.

Commenting, McInnes said, "With one in four buyers facing unexpected repair costs in their first year of ownership, a system must be put in place to ensure that people, particularly first time buyers, have detailed information on the property they are investing in.

"Liberal Democrats want to see first time buyers given all the support they need to make the right decision in what is often the biggest investment of people's lives.

"I urge the SNP Government to make sure that this scheme is adequately implemented and given sufficient resources to make it of real value to prospective buyers."

The single seller survey was proposed by the previous Labour-Lib Dem executive, and has achieved cross party support.

"I welcome the introduction of the single seller survey and commend the minister for taking forward the proposals of the previous administration."