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Who We Are

Founded by Phil Mowat and Annabelle Watt, together we are Mowatt - Move Smarter.

We are not an Estate Agent. We are a local property appraisal expert and property matchmaker covering East Lothian, Edinburgh and anywhere in-between. We give honest, independent advice and can connect serious buyers & sellers through our carefully curated database; Mowatt's Matchlist.

We will help you sell your current house, either discreetly (off-market) through us, or on the open market via a trusted agent introduction. We will also help you find your next property.

We believe that buying or selling should be straight forward, transparent & stress-free.

Meet the Team

Phil Mowat

Director, Appraisals

Phil has operated in East Lothian & Edinburgh as a lettings, sales & property valuer for a number of years, and in the last two years alone has successfully secured & marketed over 20 million pounds worth of property for his clients. He excels at connecting the right people with the right properties. Phil was born in Edinburgh & has lived in Gullane since 2018.

Local person, local connections, local knowledge.

Annabelle Watt

Director, Operations

Annabelle's expertise lies in customer service, sales and business operations. She loves helping clients achieve their goals. The skills she's gained in both property sales, and management consultancy ensure Mowatt's clients are in very safe hands. Annabelle was born and raised in East Lothian. She has lived, worked and studied in Edinburgh, London & Surrey. Before moving to North Berwick in 2017 she rented in Longniddry.

Local person, local connections, local knowledge.

Annabelle Watt

Director, Operations

Annabelle's expertise lies in customer service, sales, marketing and business operations. She loves helping clients achieve their goals. The skills she's gained in both property sales and management consultancy ensure Mowatt's clients are in very safe hands. Annabelle was born and raised in East Lothian. She has lived, worked and studied in Edinburgh, London & Surrey. Before moving to North Berwick in 2017 she rented in Longniddry.

Local person, local connections, local knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find out how Mowatt can help you Move Smarter.

What is Mowatt – Move Smarter?

We are a local property consultancy based in East Lothian and our service reaches to (and includes) Edinburgh. We are not another Estate Agent. We don't chase commissions or inflate valuations. Instead we offer independent, evidence based advice to help home owners and buyers like you to make confident, well-informed decisions before you take the next step on your property journey. We help Thoughtful Sellers explore routes to market, including the possibility of a discreet, off-market sale. Alternatively we can collaborate with an agent best placed to assist you on the open market.

Whether you're considering a quiet sale, weighing up agents, or simply want a realistic view of your property's value we can act as your impartial guide. Our training, including Propertymark valuation workshops, keeps us sharp on trends and the wider market forces that shape property values across the region. We bring clarity, strategy and discretion to a property market that too often lacks all three.

For buyers, you can register your Quiet Seeker details with our carefully curated database, Mowatt’s Matchlist; you'll be the first to know if we appraise a home that meets your requirements or we can go further and proactively seek a home for you.

Property Appraisal Options

If you're actively preparing to sell, our free appraisal is appropriate. It’s designed for homeowners who are already taking steps toward a move: decluttering, speaking to a solicitor or mapping out a clear onward plan (such as relocating, downsizing, or buying elsewhere). This route includes strategic guidance, potential Matchlist inclusion and support with next steps.

If you're still weighing things up; curious about your property's value, wondering whether upgrades are worth it or simply exploring your options, our ‘Just Because’ appraisal is the better fit. It’s a paid service that provides a written report with comparables, a value range and honest advice on condition and improvement potential, without assuming you're ready to sell. We make this distinction to ensure our time and yours is well spent. If you’re unsure which route fits, just let us know when you fill out the contact form where you are in your decision-making; we’ll guide you to the right option.

So what does Mowatt actually do?

We’re facilitators, off-market matchmakers and occasionally, a thorn in the side of complacency. As former estate agents ourselves, we know the pitfalls of traditional practice and the difference that thoughtful, accountable service can make. We can discuss if Off Market or Open Market is right for your circumstances and your property. If you decide to sell on the open market, we collaborate with agents who share our ethos: transparency, care and a commitment to doing things properly. We negotiate terms and celebrate great service.

Why isn’t Mowatt an estate agency?

Mowatt doesn't list homes on the open market. It offers something a bit different. We believe property decisions deserve independent advice; free from sales targets, inflated valuations or marketing packages designed to win listings. Mowatt exists to guide homeowners on their routes to market, helping them understand their options with clarity and confidence. We also know the biggest barrier for many sellers like you is uncertainty: the fear of listing before you've found somewhere to buy, or the worry you'll miss out on a purchase because your own sale isn’t ready. Mowatt will be your trusted advisor through this journey. For buyers we listen to your wish list and try to find a good property match. That’s exactly why we've created Mowatt's Matchlist; a smarter way to connect buyers and sellers discreetly, off-market and on your terms.

What makes Mowatt stand out?

We’re small, local and intentionally low-volume. That means we offer a truly personal, confidential service. This area of Scotland is a close-knit community and we understand that some clients prefer to move quietly. We meet every buyer and seller joining Mowatt's Matchlist face to face. If you are willing to make the time to do this, we know you are serious about engaging with us. This ensures that everyone we work with is genuinely motivated to move and is aligned with our values. We don’t chase volume or visibility, we prioritise fit, discretion and integrity.

I want to sell my home. Why go through Mowatt instead of directly to an estate agent?

Most Sellers endure the Estate Agent Beauty Parade - yet afterwards are still no clearer if the valuations given are accurate, or if their service offerings are as good as their glossy brochures would suggest. Rather than inviting a stream of agents into your home, each offering their own version of a valuation, starting with Mowatt means beginning your sale with clarity, strategy and discretion. Mowatt is independent. Our value range recommendations are based on data and are not inflated to win your business.

We begin by assessing whether your home is suitable for a discreet, off-market sale. Through Mowatt's Matchlist, we can connect Thoughtful Sellers with Quiet Seekers who are actively looking to buy; quietly, carefully and without the noise of the open market. Alternatively, we’ll suggest collaborating with an agent we believe has a good track record, good customer care and is well-suited to your property and goals. We negotiate terms and ensure your interests are protected from appraisal to completion.

Can I still use Mowatt if I’ve already had agents round?

Yes, absolutely, provided you haven’t signed a contract with an agent yet. If you’ve already had a few valuation visits, we can still carry out a full appraisal and offer independent advice on your best route forward. Our goal is to help you make a more informed decision, not to undo what’s already been done.

What happens after the Property Appraisal visit?

Following your appraisal visit, we’ll provide a comprehensive report that gives you a clear and honest overview of your property’s position in the market. This includes a realistic value range based on current data; not inflated to impress, but grounded in evidence. We’ll also offer tailored advice on presentation and market readiness, helping you understand what, if anything, needs to be done before going to market. We will discuss the merits of Off market Versus Open Market for your property.

Off-Market. Isn't that just for exclusive/luxury homes?

Not at all. Off Market selling is about keeping things low-key and discreet. It works just as well for a small flat or bungalow as it does for a family home. There's no ESPC listing, no Rightmove advert, no For Sale board outside your door. That means there are no up front fees (no Home Report, no photography, no property portal costs)

Once you decide to sell Off Market we create an anonymised property profile listing on our Hush Homes page (just enough information to generate interest - no pictures, no address, no floorplan.) We will work quietly behind the scenes, introducing your Hush Home to Quiet Seekers (buyers we personally vet) that fit the bill through our carefully curated database, Mowatt's Matchlist.

Our Thoughtful Sellers choose this route because they value privacy and want a calmer process. Without a public listing there's less noise and fuss. We personally accompany Quiet Seekers on viewings too and of course these are all arranged at your convenience. All Matchlisters are asked to abide by confidentiality clauses so that everyone's business is kept private. Any offers will be carefully considered and if accepted will be dealt with through conveyancing solicitors. If Matchlist Magic happens and a sale completes, then you will pay a modest, success based fee.

If I choose to go on the Open Market, will going via Mowatt cost me more than going directly to an estate agent?

If you decide to list on the open market, you won’t pay more by involving Mowatt. In fact, our approach may reduce costs compared to traditional routes. What you gain is an advisor who keeps your interests front and centre, and stays involved throughout the process to ensure momentum, clarity and accountability.

What happens when I register with Mowatt’s Matchlist as a buyer?

We’ll visit you for a FREE consultation to understand your wishlist, budget, timeline and search criteria. You'll then be registered as a Quiet Seeker on Mowatt's Matchlist (our carefully curated database). You can choose to be a Passive Quiet Seeker where we match you with properties we are invited to appraise, or an Active Quiet Seeker where you engage us to proactively search, network and enquire on your behalf. For all Quiet Seekers, your anonymised profile will appear on our webpage to attract enquiries from homeowners who have a property that may be a good match. We offer flexible fee structures for successful matches. We’ll always be upfront about costs and expectations before you commit, so you can choose the approach that best suits your goals.

What other Bespoke (paid) services does Mowatt offer to buyers/sellers?

Tailored property insight, delivered with clarity, discretion and strategic focus. These paid services are ideal for clients seeking deeper, independent guidance at key decision points.

‘Just Because’ Property Appraisal: Curious about your property's market position, even if you're not planning to move? This appraisal gives you a clear sense of value range, local comparables and honest advice on whether upgrades could meaningfully impact buyer appeal. Deliverables: On-site assessment of value range / Research into recent sales and comparables / Honest views on condition and potential /Written summary with findings and recommendations.

Pre-Offer Property Appraisal: Thinking of making an offer? Get strategic clarity before committing. This independent second opinion helps you assess the property, decode seller signals and pitch your offer with confidence. Deliverables: On-site property assessment/ Review of Home Report (where available)/ Valuation check against local data/ Written report with market insight/ Advice on offer strategy and agent behaviour.

Remote Viewing via WhatsApp: Can’t attend a viewing in person? We’ll go on your behalf; providing live or recorded commentary, photos and honest impressions to help you decide your next move. Deliverables: WhatsApp video walkthrough (live or recorded) / Viewing photos / Strategic questions posed to seller or agent / Verbal summary with impressions and offer strategy.

Overseas Buyer Advisory: Navigating the Scottish market from abroad? This one-hour session demystifies the offer system, Home Reports & agent dynamics, tailored to your questions and goals. Deliverables: Video or phone advisory session / Overview of Scottish buying process / Guidance on Home Reports and agent engagement / Tailored Q&A / Matchlist registration if appropriate.

Interested in one of these services? Contact us directly to discuss your needs and receive a tailored quote.

My home is already listed on the open market but things aren't going to plan. How can Mowatt help?

Not every sale goes smoothly. Whether your property has been sitting without interest or generating viewings but no offers, Mowatt can help you take stock and explore your options. We offer a discreet, independent review of your current situation. That might include:

• Assessing whether your property is over-valued for current market conditions

• Reviewing your marketing strategy and presentation to see what might be improved

• Advising on whether your agent’s strategy aligns with your goals

• Clarifying whether any withdrawal fees or contractual limitations apply

• Recommending an alternative agent who may be better placed to assist

• Exploring whether an off-market route could suit your property better

We approach this with care and respect. Not every agent-client pairing is the right fit and sometimes a small strategic shift can make a big difference. Our goal is to help you regain clarity, momentum and control. If you’d like a second opinion or a tailored plan for moving forward, just get in touch. We’ll guide you with the same discretion and transparency that defines everything we do.

Intellectual Property & Methodology Notice

Mowatt – Move Smarter Ltd is built on a proprietary framework that combines strategic property advisory, off-market matching and agent collaboration in a way that is uniquely structured, branded and delivered. While individual concepts may exist elsewhere, the methodology, matchlist structure, client journey design and presentation are the result of original development and operational refinement. All content, including but not limited to written materials, branded assets, survey logic and client-facing tools, is protected under copyright and intellectual property law. The use of our materials or replication of our methodology, whether in whole or in part, without express permission is strictly prohibited. Mowatt reserves the right to take appropriate legal action against any unauthorised use, imitation, or misrepresentation of our intellectual property. For collaboration, partnership or licensing enquiries, please contact us directly.

Our Trusted Credentials

At Mowatt we attend Propertymark certified training events in market appraisal & property valuation. This demonstrates our commitment to continuing professional development that translates to a quality service for our clients.

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+44 (0)1620 670 282 (During normal office hours)

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