Aberdeenshire Council’s Matchmaker project allows owners of empty properties to list them for free with the council then able to share details with potential buyers who register an interest.

The scheme is designed for owners of properties that may have been vacant for some time, may require renovation to bring them up to standard, or where owners simply don’t know how to start making properties suitable for sale.

A range of information about energy efficiency improvement grants and discount schemes available to owners of empty properties has been gathered, alongside general information and advice around maintenance, repairs, and renovations.

Owners bringing an empty property back into use may be eligible for council tax discounts while they are brought back into use, and may also benefit from companies offering discounted products and services to owners of empty homes.

Communities committee chair Cllr Anne Stirling said: “We are very keen to help bring as many properties back into use across Aberdeenshire as possible to help meet demand, and the Matchmaker scheme provides free support to those who wish to get involved.

“We are highlighting the opportunities available to the owners of empty properties, such as the potential for reduce rated VAT during renovations, and potential council tax discounts, as well as a wide range of advice and information.

“For those in a position to buy, the properties for sale offer the chance for them to make their own mark and perhaps build on the work done to bring them back into use.

“Aberdeenshire Council won’t handle the sale of any properties, but by sharing advice and bringing buyers and sellers together we hope to see more properties being brought back into use, supporting the Scottish Government’s commitment to empty homes.”

Almost 40 properties across Aberdeenshire are already available for sale, with asking prices ranging from £50,000 up to £245,000.