Independent Property Consultancy

& Off-Market Matchmaker

for East Lothian & beyond

About Us

Founded by Phil Mowat and Annabelle Watt, together we are Mowatt - Move Smarter. We’re not an estate agent. We’re a local property consultancy and off-market matchmaker based in East Lothian. Unlike Estate Agents who represent Sellers we serve both Buyers (Quiet Seekers) and Thoughtful Sellers.

Independent, honest advice: No sales targets. No inflated valuations. Just clear, evidence-based guidance.

Appraisal experts & matchmakers: We help you understand your property’s value and connect serious buyers and sellers through Mowatt’s Matchlist.

Sell your home, your way: Choose a discreet Off Market route through us, or go public via a trusted agent collaboration.

Find your next home: Buyers; register as a Quiet Seeker and we’ll match you with suitable properties we appraise. Or retain us to search proactively on your behalf.

Straightforward, transparent, stress-free: That’s how property decisions should feel. We’re here to make sure they do.

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 and is an out-the-box thinker. 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 through awareness raising & advice (see blogs under Resource tab). 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.

Mowatt's Mutts

Non-exec Social Media Advisors

Mowatt's Mutts are, technically, part of the team. Their professional expertise extends no further than Milsey Bay (on a good day) and the occasional perimeter check of Coos Green. Local knowledge? None. Strategic insight? Zero. But they remain integral, if only because nobody else in the office can beg for snacks with such conviction.

Non‑Local Dogs, Zero Connections,

No Knowledge.

Jump right in! Find out how Mowatt can help you Move Smarter.

What is Mowatt – Move Smarter?

Independent property consultancy - Based in East Lothian, with reach into Edinburgh. We’re not estate agents and don’t chase commissions.

Evidence-based advice - We offer impartial guidance to help you make confident, well-informed property decisions.

Support for Thoughtful Sellers - Explore Off Market options or let us collaborate with the right agent for Open Market success.

Impartial valuation expertise - Our training, including Propertymark workshops, keeps us sharp on market trends and pricing realities.

Clarity, strategy, discretion - We bring all three to a property market that often lacks them.

Buyer matching through Mowatt’s Matchlist - Register as a Quiet Seeker to hear first about homes we appraise that fit - or retain us to search proactively on your behalf.

Property Appraisal Options

Free Appraisal; for active sellers - Ideal if you're already preparing to move (decluttering, speaking to a solicitor, planning your next step). Includes strategic guidance, potential Matchlist inclusion and support with next steps.

Just Because’ Appraisal; for curious homeowners- A paid service with a written report, comparables, value range and honest advice on condition and upgrade potential.

Designed for those exploring options, not yet ready to sell.

Not sure which fits? Just let us know where you are in your decision-making when you fill out the contact form and we’ll guide you to the right option.

So what does Mowatt actually do?

We’re facilitators, not agents: We guide sellers through Off Market and Open Market options, without chasing commissions.

Off Market matchmakers: We connect sellers with verified, proceedable buyers through our Matchlist and Hush Homes route.

Former agents, now independent: We know the pitfalls of traditional practice and offer thoughtful, accountable service instead.

Open Market, done properly: If you choose to go public, we collaborate with agents who share our values: transparency, care, and professionalism.

We negotiate and advocate: We help secure fair terms and celebrate great service; no shortcuts, no inflated promises.

Why isn’t Mowatt an estate agency?

We don’t list homes on the open market: Instead, we offer independent guidance to help you choose the right route to sell.

No sales targets, no inflated valuations: Our advice is honest, evidence-based and free from the pressure to win listings.

We help you plan with clarity and confidence: Whether you're selling, buying, or weighing your options, we guide you through each step.

We understand seller uncertainty: From fear of listing too soon to missing out on a purchase, we help you navigate the timing.

We’re your trusted advisor, not your agent: Our role is to support your decision-making, not to sell you a marketing package.

For buyers, we listen first: We match your wish list with suitable homes through Mowatt’s Matchlist; discreet, off-market and on your terms

What makes Mowatt stand out?

Small, local and intentionally low-volume: We offer a personal, confidential service tailored to this region's close-knit community.

Face-to-face commitment: We meet every buyer and seller on our Matchlist in person - ensuring genuine motivation and shared values.

Discretion over visibility: We prioritise fit, integrity and quiet moves over chasing volume or public exposure.

Built for thoughtful movers: Our approach suits clients who value privacy, clarity and meaningful engagement.

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

Skip the Estate Agent Beauty Parade: No need to invite multiple agents with glossy brochures and conflicting valuations; start with clarity.

Independent, data-led valuation: Our value range is based on evidence, not inflated to win your business.

Begin with strategy and discretion: We assess whether your home is suitable for a quiet, off-market sale before going public.

Connect with serious buyers first: Through Mowatt’s Matchlist, we match Thoughtful Sellers with verified Quiet Seekers; no portals, no noise.

Open Market, only if needed: If Off Market isn’t the right fit, we’ll collaborate with an agent who aligns with your goals and values.

We stay with you from start to finish: From appraisal to negotiation, we protect your interests and ensure the process is handled properly.

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?

Discreet selling for any property: Off Market works just as well for flats and bungalows as it does for larger homes.

No public listing, no upfront costs: No ESPC, Rightmove, Home Report, photography or portal fees. Just a quieter, simpler process.

Anonymised listing on our Hush Homes page: We share just enough detail to spark interest; no photos, address or floorplan.

Quiet matchmaking through Mowatt’s Matchlist: We introduce your Hush Home to vetted Quiet Seekers who fit the bill.

Privacy and calm for Thoughtful Sellers: No For Sale board, no public fuss. Just personal viewings arranged at your convenience.

Confidentiality guaranteed: All Matchlisters agree to keep things private and offers are handled professionally via solicitors.

Success-based fee only if a sale completes: If Matchlist Magic happens, you pay a modest fee; no sale, no charge.

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?

Start with a free consultation: We’ll visit you to understand your wishlist, budget, timeline, and search criteria.

Join Mowatt’s Matchlist: You’ll be added to our carefully curated database of motivated buyers and your anonymised Quiet Seeker Profile will have the option of appearing on our website/socials to spark interest from suitable homeowners.

Choose your level of engagement:

• Passive Quiet Seeker: You'll be the first to hear of properties we’re invited to appraise that match your wishlist, before they go to market.

• Active Quiet Seeker: Retain us to proactively search, approach homeowners and enquire on your behalf through our network of buying agents.

Flexible, transparent fees: We offer success-based fee structures and always clarify costs before you commit

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. Can Mowatt help?

Yes. We offer a discreet, independent review: Whether you’re getting no interest or no offers, we help you take stock and explore next steps.

What we can do:

• Check if your property is over-valued for current market conditions

• Review your marketing and presentation strategy

• Assess whether your agent’s approach aligns with your goals

• Clarify any withdrawal fees or contract limitations

• Recommend a better-suited agent collaboration if needed

• Explore whether our Off-Market route might work better

Our goal: To help you regain clarity, momentum and control; With care, respect and strategic insight.

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.

Mowatt Move Smarter blog

Overvaluation: Tactic or Trap?

Overvaluation: Tactic or Trap?

Why repeated price reductions damage credibility. How sellers and buyers can protect value with smarter strategies and discreet off‑market options. ...more

Property

November 01, 20254 min read

The Quiet Truth about being a Buyer

The Quiet Truth about being a Buyer

This post exposes how buyers are not prioritised by agents in property sales, then introduces Quiet Seekers; Mowatt’s buyer-first approach that prioritises nuance, preparation and proactive opportunit... ...more

Property Purchase

October 27, 20252 min read

Closing Dates

Closing Dates

Closing Dates can end in disappointment. Why assessing the true position of a buyer is essential. ...more

Property Purchase

October 15, 20253 min read

Fiscal Fog and impact on the Property Market

Fiscal Fog and impact on the Property Market

East Lothian and Edinburgh’s property market is stalling. Mowatt’s Matchlist offers sellers a discreet, data-led way to test demand without overexposure; empowering life-driven moves even as pricing f... ...more

Fiscal Pressure on Housing market

October 15, 20255 min read

Downsizing in East Lothian?

Downsizing in East Lothian?

Thinking about downsizing? This blog explores choice, timing and how to move quietly, with confidence. ...more

Downsizers

September 25, 20253 min read

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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Contact Us

+44 (0)1620 670 282

(Mon-Fri, during normal office hours)

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