A guide to buying or selling a dental practice in Scotland
Read time: 5 mins Added: 24/09/25
Buying or selling a dental practice is a significant professional milestone, shaped by both career goals and personal circumstances. Drawing on insights from business valuation and brokerage specialists Christie & Co, this guide outlines key considerations for healthcare professionals in Scotland.
Selling a dental practice: more than a transaction
Selling your practice is about more than just numbers, it’s about your legacy. It’s about ensuring continuity of care for your patients, supporting your team, and securing a fair outcome that reflects your years of dedication.
Start with a trusted conversation
Begin with a confidential, no-pressure discussion. Whether your motivation is retirement, relocation, or a new venture, it’s important to align your goals with current market conditions in Scotland. Be cautious of agents who charge buyers instead of sellers - this can lead to misaligned priorities.
Get market-ready
Prepare your practice as you would a patient for surgery - with care and precision. Gather financial records, compliance documentation (including NHS Scotland requirements), and operational insights to present your practice in the best light.
Craft a compelling story
A strong Information Memorandum is more than a brochure; it’s your practice’s story. Include professional photography, floor plans, and virtual tours to help buyers visualise the opportunity.
Navigate offers with confidence
Multiple offers are common. A structured bidding process ensures transparency. It’s not always about the highest price. The right fit for your patients and team matters just as much.
Negotiate with clarity
Once an offer is accepted, the Heads of Terms should be drafted. This document sets the tone for solicitors and accountants to formalise the deal.
Complete with care
Due diligence can feel daunting, but with the right support, valuations, legal checks, and regulatory reviews (including NHS Scotland and GDC requirements) are manageable.
Buying a dental practice: a strategic career move
Owning a practice offers autonomy, financial growth, and the ability to shape your clinical environment. But it’s also a serious commitment and preparation is key.
Start saving early
Most lenders require a 20–30% deposit. Having this ready gives you a competitive edge when the right opportunity arises.
Build your advisory team
A solicitor and accountant with experience in Scottish dental transactions is essential. They’ll help you navigate contracts, NHS regulations, and funding with confidence.
Know what you want
Mixed-income practices (NHS/private) are in high demand across Scotland. Be clear on your preferred model and long-term vision to filter opportunities effectively.
Stay resilient
It’s common to miss out on early bids. Each experience builds your knowledge and brings you closer to the right fit.
Think beyond the purchase
Ownership doesn’t end at acquisition. Staffing, marketing, compliance, and patient retention all need planning. A strong transition plan sets the foundation for long-term success.
Market insights for 2025
Demand remains strong: The UK dental market continues to see robust demand, particularly from independent buyers and first-time owners. In 2024, viewings rose by 19%, offers by 17%, and agreed deals by 26%. This momentum is expected to continue into 2025.
Premium valuations: Practices with digital systems, stable income, and growth potential are achieving strong valuations. Christie & Co reports that practices achieved an average of 108% of their asking price in 2024.
Co-authored by Chris Vowels, FRICS, Head of Valuations, Medical, Christie & Co.
Since 2019, Christie & Co has supported over 1,600 dental practices across the UK, including many in Scotland, through valuations and advisory work. Their experience offers valuable insight for those entering, expanding, or exiting the sector.
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While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure that the information provided is correct, no liability is accepted by Bank of Scotland for any loss or damage caused to any person relying on any statement or omission. This is for information only and should not be relied upon as offering advice for any set of circumstances. Specific advice should always be sought in each instance.