Story perspectives

£300 Million in Property Transactions Hidden by Legal Loophole

2/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Analyst Andy Wightman warns a legal loophole lets landowners hide prices in the public register, leaving over £300 million in Highland property transactions undisclosed.
Discovery Land Company and Oxygen Conservation have used the loophole.
Wightman urges Scottish ministers to amend the law to require price disclosure on title deeds.
The Scottish government is exploring options to boost transparency.
Firms say confidentiality is requested by sellers and they comply with laws.

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Story summary

Analyst Andy Wightman warns a legal loophole lets landowners hide prices in the public register, leaving over £300 million in Highland property transactions undisclosed.
Discovery Land Company and Oxygen Conservation have used the loophole.
Wightman urges Scottish ministers to amend the law to require price disclosure on title deeds.
The Scottish government is exploring options to boost transparency.
Firms say confidentiality is requested by sellers and they comply with laws.