Aberdeenshire Council has launched a new council-led initiative called Matchmaker to help address housing demand by bringing empty properties back into use across the region.

The scheme provides free support by connecting owners of vacant properties with potential buyers who have registered an interest. Owners of empty properties, particularly those requiring renovation or those who need guidance on preparing a property for sale, can list their homes for free on the Council's website. The Council then shares these details with registered potential buyers.

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The scheme provides a wealth of information and advice to owners. This guidance includes details on energy efficiency improvement grants and discount schemes, as well as general information around maintenance, repairs, and renovations. Owners bringing an empty property back into use may also be eligible for council tax discounts while the work is carried out, and may also benefit from companies offering discounted products and services. The Council is also highlighting opportunities such as the potential for reduced rated VAT during renovations.

Communities Committee chair, Councillor Anne Stirling, confirmed the Council's support role: "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."

The scheme already features almost 40 properties available for sale across Aberdeenshire, with asking prices ranging from £50,000 up to £245,000.