The scheme, launched in conjunction with the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership, aims to help address the shortage of homes in Scotland, by finding new owners for properties which have fallen into disrepair or are unoccupied for a variety of reasons.

There are an estimated 43,000 privately owned homes in Scotland that are empty for six months or more, and 27,000 empty for more than a year.

David Corrie, head of estate agency for Galbraith, commented: “This is a very positive scheme and a great way to ensure our housing stock is used efficiently. There are a variety of reasons why a rural property may have lain empty for some time, including a change in circumstances, or a renovation project which has come to a halt. A service of this kind could act as a catalyst for the owner of the property to take action and bring the property to the market, while helping a local buyer to secure a home.”

The intention is to collect information from owners willing to sell to renovation-minded buyers, or to developers who have expressed an interest in projects requiring investment, matching up buyers and sellers by location, property type and size of investment required. Some local authorities offer support for buyers wishing to reinstate a derelict home, in the form of grants, loans, or a specific Empty Homes Officer, who can provide advice.

Properties that are unoccupied for more than a year are in most cases subject to double the usual rate of Council Tax, subject to the discretion of the local authority.  Purchasers of homes that have been empty for more than a year may be exempt from paying Council Tax for the first six months if they can demonstrate they are renovating the home. In some regions grants of up to 50% of the cost of renovation may be awarded, up to a maximum of £20,000 covering works, fees and VAT.

David Corrie continued: “Joining the dots by matching up those looking for a home with unoccupied properties is a win-win for house-hunters, rural communities and the environment.

“Where local authorities are tasked with increasing housing supply, this is a forward-thinking solution. Indeed it’s a great way to ensure that we are collectively doing all we can to make sure our housing stock is used effectively, rather than standing empty while people are, in some areas, struggling to identify a new home”.

According to the Scottish Government, trial schemes in Aberdeen, North Lanarkshire and Perth & Kinross have proved effective.