We have built excellent working relationships with Scottish and Westminster government departments and other regulatory bodies that deal with property, providing them with the industry perspective on issues relevant to the industry. We are regularly consulted by government officials and whereever possible we work with them to produce legislation, regulations and policies that are helpful to the industry and to improve or change those that aren't.

We are also working to raise the profile and reputation of the industry with key non-governmental organisations, local decision makers, the press and media, the professions and the wider public. We do this through a proactive media programme, through the promotion of best practice within and beyond the industry and through active participation in conferences, events and seminars all aimed at telling the industry's story to the wider world.

Lobbying government

Legislation and regulations are a crucial factor in the industry's success. Our main activity, therefore, is lobbying the Scottish and British governments and other regulators, to increase their understanding of the property industry, to encourage them to include us in their decision-making activities and, ultimately, to achieve supportive legislative, fiscal and regulatory conditions.

Our members can help the government deliver many of its policies, particularly those involving urban regeneration, sustainable communities, social inclusion, tax-efficient property investment, savings and pensions reform, sustainability and environmental improvement.

To achieve our lobbying objective we:

• build relationships with key decision makers in government and in the non-governmental organisations that take decisions affecting the property industry

• create opportunities to represent the views of our members with such decision makers, both formally and informally, consult with government about proposed legislation affecting the property industry, and contribute written submissions, backed up by frequent meetings with ministers, advisers and senior officials

• use the goodwill and understanding generated through this participation to achieve active involvement in setting the policy agenda for property in Scotland

• work closely with organisations representing other sectors of the property industry to provide a co-ordinated voice for the industry as a whole

• work collaboratively with NGOs and other professional and trade bodies in developing the guidance and tools necessary to meet emerging regulation

• participate in policy-based research to inform and influence those who create policies.