The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

City and countryside top of the list for Perthshire buyers

City and countryside top of the list for Perthshire buyers

Perthshire’s property is witnessing a rising trend of buyers seeking a balance between urban conveniences and rural tranquillity. Properties that offer proximity to city amenities while being surrounded by the region’s stunning landscapes are in high demand. The market also shows an inclination towards eco-friendly and sustainable homes, as buyers prioritize energy efficiency and green living.

In this blog our Perthshire Estate Agents take a look back at some of the highlights of the 2023 market.

1 Ladeside, Kinross

No. 1 Ladeside is part of a courtyard development of four homes on the edge of Kinross, with attractive views out to the Ochil Hills. It has a private walled garden and a paddock to the east side of the property which extends to about two acres. The extensive accommodation, including five bedrooms, totals 280m2  and is spread over two floors. The fixtures and finishes are of exceptional quality and include oak facings and doors, limestone flooring throughout the ground level, and a large conservatory at the rear.  

2 Castle Hill View, Rumbling Bridge

Fixed price £650,000.

Sold from plan, this family home is set within a small development of four detached homes in a semi-rural location with magnificent uninterrupted views, yet with easy access to local amenities and well respected schools. The appeal of high quality build and eco credentials meant interest in this property was in high demand.

Grange of Errol Development, Errol

Prices from £539,000.

Our estate agents witnessed huge demand for the Grange of Errol a development of luxury eco homes built by The Good House Company, with all houses reserved in the first week on being on the market. The Good House Company was founded in 2006 and is renowned for producing homes that are A-rated for energy efficiency, vital to compensate for the ever-increasing cost of fuel bills. They are super insulated and are heated by low-carbon technology. Their future aim is to build homes that are carbon-neutral and they are passionate about not sacrificing quality of finishes in order to be an ‘eco’ home – you can have both.

Maryfield, Meigle

Offers over £360,000.

Period properties will always be in high demand and Maryfield in the Perthshire village of Meigle is a great example. A handsome period property dating from the late Victorian era, with a later extension to the rear with well-proportioned rooms retaining many of the typical features expected in a house of this period.

Our Perthshire Estate Agents are looking for similar properties to sell across the Perth and Kinross area. If you are thinking of moving, discuss our market appraisal contact Carl Warden on 01738 621121 or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk.

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The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Busy year of transactions for Oban Estate Agents

Busy year of transactions for our Oban Estate Agents

It has been a busy year of transactions for our Oban Estate Agency. Operating across Argyll & Bute and the Inner Hebrides our west coast property experts have continued to witness a surge in the demand for second homes and holiday retreats. Buyers are looking properties that offer an escape from urban life, with a focus on outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and water sports. The region’s rice history and cultural attractions further enhance its appeal, making it a popular choice for both domestic and international and buyers.

There is an increasing interest in reviving old properties while preserving their original charm. This trend aligns with a growing appreciation for sustainable and eco-conscious living, as restoration often involves repurposing existing materials.

Here is a selection what our Oban Estate Agents have sold in 2023.

Craighrannoch, Ballachulish

Guide Price £800,000.

Set in a picturesque, secluded coastal location on the shores of Loch Leven and on the fringe of the coastal village of Ballachulish, Craighrannoch is a traditional stone villa, perfectly positioned to enjoy the panoramic views.

Cuilcheanna & Cuilcheanna Cottages, Onich

Guide Price £1,045,000.

Cuilcheanna presented a wonderful lifestyle opportunity for the right buyer with a five-bedroom family home and four well established holiday cottages, located within the ever-popular coastal village of Onich. This property offered an excellent opportunity to escape city life with an established holiday business and substantial income potential.

Achavaich, Connel

Guide price £495,000.

This beautifully presented traditional farmhouse with converted barn, set in a much sought-after location on the fringe of the coastal village of Connel and benefitting from far reaching views across the local countryside. This beloved family home offered buyers idyllic family life and carefree rural living coupled with easy access to the thriving coastal hub at Oban.

Our Oban Estate Agents are looking for similar properties to sell across Argyll & Bute and the Islands. If you are thinking of moving, discuss our market appraisal contact Andrew Fuller on 01631 566122 or email andrew.fuller@bellingram.co.uk.

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The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

High quality of life still fuelling Highlands & Islands property market

High quality of life still drawing buyers to the Highlands & Islands

Bell Ingram’s Highland Estate Agency team reflect on 2023 as the Highlands & Islands region continues to experience high demand caused by the rise of remote work. As more professionals embrace flexible work arrangements, there is a growing interest in properties that offer a high quality of life in a remote setting. Waterfront homes, cottages with sea views, and properties nestled in nature are becoming coveted choices for those seeking a quieter and more serene lifestyle.

Here is a selection of what our Highland Estate Agents have sold in 2023.

7B Drimisdale, Isle of South Uist

Offers over £525,000.

7B Drimisdale presented buyers a beautiful four-bedroom architect-designed house with studio annexe and approximately 14.17ha (34acres) of croftland in a peaceful lochside location on the Isle of South Uist. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts this property’s idyllic location overlooked Loch Stilligarry which hosts a variety of rare and beautiful species.

Burnside of Enzie, Buckie

Offers over £335,000.

Burnside of Enzie offered buyers an immaculate steading conversion with four en-suite bedrooms set in the tranquil, rural location of Clochan near Buckie. The steading was built to the highest standard with quality oak finishing throughout.

Cuil Breac, Elphin

Offers over £300,000.

Nestled in the dramatic landscape of Elphin in the Scottish Highlands, this former croft house is a mountain lover’s dream home. Packed with character, the cottage included a recently completed extension which has wonderful living space where one could sit back and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and lochs.

Ty Cymro, Isle of Berneray

Offers over £180,000.

This unique property was one of a handful of traditional thatched black houses remaining on the islands. Rare to market this property was brimming with charming features and breath-taking views. Ty Cymro presented the perfect island home filled with charm and a great opportunity for buyers looking to enjoy an idyllic rural lifestyle.

Bay Cottage, Carinish

Offers over £325,000.

Bay Cottage is an exceptional modern and stylish design-led two bedroom waterside eco house located on the island of North Uist. Completely renovated and extended to the highest standards with unique, high-quality features and finishings throughout.

Our Beauly Estate Agents are looking for similar properties to sell across the Scottish Highlands and Islands. If you are thinking of moving, discuss our market appraisal contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717799 or email joanne.stennett@bellingram.co.uk.

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Rural Land Management Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Heat in Buildings Bill – Potential impact on privately let residential properties in Scotland

Heat in Buildings Bill – Potential impact on privately let residential properties in Scotland

Anyone involved in Scottish residential property management has been growing increasingly frustrated by the limited information available around the reform of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Scotland.

Initial legislation was drafted in 2019 but binned in 2021 due to Covid, and since then landlords and property managers have been left in limbo, knowing that changes to the minimum standard are coming but not knowing when they might come into force or what they might involve.

However, more detail emerged this week when the Scottish Government opened the consultation on the proposals for Heat in Buildings Bill.

This consultation confirms that the Government plans to require private landlords to meet a minimum energy efficiency standard by the end of 2028, and by the end of 2033 owner occupied homes will also need to meet a minimum energy efficiency standards.

So, what will the minimum energy efficiency standard be?

For years now, it has been known that a minimum EPC score is incoming but there has been a lack of clarity on how this might be achieved, and if there are going to be any exclusions or if there is going to be a price cap.

This new consultation proposes that minimum energy efficiency standards can be met by installing a straightforward list of measures. This list would be developed to ensure the biggest impact with the lowest degree of cost and disruption. It is important to note that the consultation says:

“Any homeowner who had installed these measures – or as many of them as are feasible for the type of home they live in – would be considered to have reached a good level of energy efficiency and meet the new standard.”

This is reassuring as it confirms that not all proposed measures will need to be met in every single property. The consultation suggests that the list could be:

  • 270mm loft insulation

  • Cavity wall insulation

  • Draught-proofing

  • Heating controls

  • 80mm hot water cylinder insulation

  • Suspended floor insulation

Many landlords and homeowners will have made energy improvements to their properties already; therefore this consultation proposes that alongside the above measures, there could be an alternative option of meeting these standards based on the result of an EPC assessment.

It is proposed that owner occupied homes that have ended their use of polluting heating, gas or oil for example, by 2033 will not be required to meet the minimum energy efficiency standard. However, private rented properties would still be required to meet the minimum energy efficiency standard, even if a clean heating system is already in place.

Finally, there is a hint of clarification around the consequences to landlords if their properties do not meet a minimum energy efficiency standard. The consultation proposes that properties in the private rented sector which do not meet these standards by the end of 2028 would not be allowed to be leased to a new tenant should the existing tenant leave.

The consultation on the proposals for Heat in Buildings Bill began on 28th November 2023, and is due to close on 8th March 2024.

The consultation can be read in full here.

Please contact Bell Ingram’s Rural Land Management team on 01738 621 121 if you have any questions and would like to discuss how this may impact your properties.

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Bell Ingram In The Community News

Bell Ingram Ayr digs in to help local community garden

Ayr digs in to help local community garden

Ayr colleagues took advantage of Bell Ingram’s commitment to supporting local communities by helping out at Eglinton Park in Irvine. The community garden supports people of all ages with their mental health by providing garden therapy through learning about gardening and growing food. Our team rolled up their sleeves for a day of hard work in the garden planting trees. 

HR Manager, Kirsty Watson comments: “We were delighted to be able to help at the Community Garden at Eglinton Park, which is a very worthy cause in our local area.

“At Bell Ingram we believe that it is important to be active members of the communities we operate in. That’s why we offer all employees one day of volunteer leave a year to take part in projects that are important to them, and to help our communities and countryside thrive.”

For more information about working at Bell Ingram visit: bellingram.co.uk/Work-with-us/

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Forestry Case Studies, Press Release Archive News

Forestry Grant Available for Scotland’s Farmers

Forestry Grant Available for Scotland’s Farmers

With 85% of farmland in Scotland classified as Less Favoured Area (LFA) and with current uncertainties over the future of agricultural subsidies, there are significant opportunities for landowners to maximise business productivity by adding value to underproductive land via woodland creation.

New woodlands have the potential to create an additional sustainable long term income stream for your business and an important source of low carbon, low cost woodfuel, at the same time as realising tax, livestock and crop productivity and environmental benefits.

Farmers looking to unlock the benefits of trees on their land can access £1000 funding from the Farm Advisory Service for woodland creation, which can now be used for Bell Ingram’s forestry services as Specialist Advisors to FAS.

Bell Ingram’s Forestry team would be pleased to talk to anyone who would like to take advantage of the funding options available.

Woodland Creation

Bell Ingram works with clients who wish to undertake woodland creation projects and are able to offer a “one stop shop” encompassing the whole process from the initial design and grant approval stage, through to implementation, maintenance and final establishment.

For larger schemes, we can also accommodate any Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements.

Most recently Bell Ingram has successful secured a number of Locational Premium Schemes, allowing landowner concerned to benefit from the additional incentives on offer and find an alternative land-use for marginal agricultural land.

To find out more about our forestry services in Scotland contact Geoff Brown on geoff.brown@bellingram.co.uk or 01292 886544.

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Press Release Archive News

Substantial home with views over the Firth of Forth estuary for sale

Substantial home with views over the Firth of Forth estuary

A detached family home in an elevated position overlooking Ravenscraig Park, with far reaching views over the Firth of Forth with over 400 m2 spread over four floors has come to market.

New to the market with Scottish estate agents Bell Ingram is Park View House for offers over £600,000.

Built about 1970, Park View House was substantially extended and upgraded in 2010 and now has plentiful accommodation, offering a great amount of flexibility for a growing family. 

There are a number of areas in the house that take advantage of its stunning location views over Ravenscraig Park and the Firth of Forth. These include a seating balcony accessed from the dining area, and the complete top floor which serves as a public room with glazed doors opening to a balcony with a glazed balustrade. There are great entertaining spaces both internally, with a games room and a bar on the lower floor, and externally with a covered area which also has a wood burning stove.

It has very high-quality fixtures and fittings including oak flooring, doors, skirtings and facings throughout. The welcoming reception hall has an oak floor with additional feature detailing, and two oak staircases to the upper and lower levels. The kitchen, in open plan with the dining/living area, has a mix of black and white gloss and glazed base and wall units with white Corian work surfaces.

In addition to the six bedrooms, the master en suite bedroom has an adjacent well fitted dressing room. 

The grounds extend to about 0.2 acres. The north facing garden is laid to lawn and the south is a terraced garden. The front driveway has ample parking for three vehicles and leads to a garage with a workshop and store on the floor below.

Commenting on the property, Estate Agent, Carl Warden says: “The wonderful location of Park View House combined with the wealth of accommodation and the quality of the fixtures and fittings makes this a must-see property. It offers so much flexibility for a growing family”.

For more information, or to arrange a viewing contact Carl Warden on 01738 621121 or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk 

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Press Release Archive News

Waterside property for sale in idyllic Ross-shire village

Waterside home for sale in idyllic Ross-shire village

An immaculate three-bedroom cottage with shore access and set in the idyllic, waterside location of Rockfield near Portmohomack has come to market.

Bell Ingram is delighted to bring the delightfully named Seashells to the market for Offers over £265,000.

Seashells offers a rarely available opportunity to acquire a delightful, south facing, cottage which enjoys far reaching sea views. The cottage has been sympathetically extended to the rear to offer excellent living space.

Seashells is situated in the quiet seaboard hamlet of Rockfield, close to Portmohomack in Ross-shire. Rockfield is a peaceful location which has no through road and so traffic is limited. The hamlet is on the side of the Cromarty Firth and has a small harbour. The village of Portmohomack is only 1.5 miles away and has shops, a primary school, a hotel and two restaurants.

The land to the front property is laid to lawn and runs down to the seashore. 

A path runs down the side of the property to the rear garden which is accessed by steps to a tiered lawn area with a path which meanders through areas planted with mature trees, bushes and fruit trees. There is also a small patio, and the rear garden is bounded by stock and wooden fencing.

There is one public room and three bedrooms, one which is on the ground floor. The kitchen has a good range of base and wall units and there are a number of integrated appliances which are included in the sale. Windows on the side and the back offer plenty of natural light and there is a large picture window with views over the garden.

Seashells has mains water and electricity, oil fired central heating and drainage is to a septic tank.

Commenting on the property, Estate Agent, Joanne Stennett says: “This immaculate cottage is in a beautiful setting and its direct access to the shoreline makes it a very attractive property either as a family home or an idyllic holiday retreat”.

For more information, or to arrange a viewing contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717799 or email joanne.stennett@bellingram.co.uk 

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The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Exploring the current trends in Scotland’s rural property market

Exploring the current trends in the Scotland’s rural property market

The Scottish property market is known for its unique blend of historic charm and natural beauty, making it a sought-after destination for both local residents and international investors. Within this picturesque landscape, several regions stand out as hotspots for real estate activity. In this article, we will delve into the current trends shaping the property markets of Perth & Kinross, Highlands & Islands, and Argyll & Bute. From scenic landscapes to cultural heritage, these areas offer a wealth of opportunities for those looking to buy or invest in Scottish real estate.

  1. Perthshire: Bridging the Gap Between Urban and Rural

Perthshire’s property is witnessing a rising trend of buyers seeking a balance between urban conveniences and rural tranquillity. Properties that offer proximity to city amenities while being surrounded by the region’s stunning landscapes are in high demand. The market also shows an inclination towards eco-friendly and sustainable homes, as buyers prioritize energy efficiency and green living.

  1. Kinross-shire: The Appeal of Community Living

Kinross-shire’s real estate scene is seeing a surge in demand for properties that promote community living. With a focus on shared spaces, recreational facilities, and social activities, developments that foster a sense of belonging are gaining popularity. Additionally, the region’s connectivity to nearby cities adds to its attractiveness for both commuters and families seeking a suburban lifestyle.

  1. Highland & Islands: Remote Work and Lifestyle Shifts

The Highland and Islands region is experiencing a significant shift due to the rise of remote work. As more professionals embrace flexible work arrangements, there is a growing interest in properties that offer a high quality of life in a remote setting. Waterfront homes, cottages with sea views, and properties nestled in nature are becoming coveted choices for those seeking a quieter and more serene lifestyle.

  1. Argyll & Bute: Second Homes and Holiday Retreats

Argyll’s real estate market is witnessing a surge in the demand for second homes and holiday retreats. Buyers are looking for properties that offer an escape from urban life, with a focus on outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and water sports. The region’s rich history and cultural attractions further enhance its appeal, making it a popular choice for both domestic and international buyers.

There is an increasing interest in reviving old properties while preserving their original charm. This trend aligns with a growing appreciation for sustainable and eco-conscious living, as restoration often involves repurposing existing materials.

Carl Warden, who heads up Bell Ingram’s Estate Agency Service, concludes: “The rural markets are each driven by unique trends that cater to diverse buyer preferences. Whether it’s the blend of urban and rural living, the focus on community, the allure of remote lifestyles, the appeal of second homes, or the fascination with heritage properties, these regions offer a range of options for those interested in Scottish real estate. As these trends continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of the Scottish property market, attracting a wide array of investors and homeowners alike.

“Remember that property trends can shift quickly, so it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest developments if you’re considering entering the market in any of these captivating Scottish regions.”

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