Council tax premium

[Chocolate0]

We have inherited a flat in a deprived area in Aberdeen. The council is now charging us double council tax because it was deemed empty (family and friends use it when they come to see us so not used full time and not rented out). I thought that premium on second house was only starting next year? Is this correct? We are gutted as it is costing us over £200 monthly (plus bills)
We are now thinking of selling it but the housing market for 2bed flats in Aberdeen seem very crowded.

Any knowledge in my council tax question or thoughts of selling up or not?

i'm not sure what the recent announcement is but councils have had the ability to charge double council tax on long-term empty homes for a long time now.

my council has an empty homes officer to give advice (and potentially support) on getting it rented or sold but don't know anything about Aberdeen specifically.
https://www.mygov.scot/council-tax/discounts-exemptions-and-reductions

You can probably inform them that it is a second home and then pay the standard rate but you will probably need to evidence that it is furnished and used occasionally. Check the council website

Also if you sell you will be liable for capital gains tax. Councils are under pressure to get empty properties occupied