Farm & Estate Sales Page, Property Case Studies

Case Study: North Barns & Coltrannie Farms, Bankfoot

Case Study: North Barns & Coltrannie Farms, Bankfoot

Client: Private Landowner
Sector: Residential Estate Agency / Rural Property Sales
Location: Bankfoot, Perthshire

Challenge:
North Barns and Coltrannie Farms, located on either side of the A9 just north of Bankfoot, had been managed as a single farming operation despite being held under separate ownerships within the same family. The client, who had lived on the property since childhood, had decided to retire and instructed Bell Ingram to handle the sale. A key challenge involved the recent compulsory purchase of land to accommodate a new bridge over the dualled A9 – a structure designed to maintain safe access between the two holdings for agricultural machinery.

This added complexity to the preparation of sale and title plans, requiring careful interpretation of boundary changes and accurate documentation to support marketing and registration.

Solution:
Working closely with colleagues in our Forfar office, the Residential Agency team in Perth prepared the farms for market to coincide with the 2024 Royal Highland Show – a strategic decision to ensure visibility during a peak sales period.

One of the main challenges was producing precise sale plans due to the land adjustments linked to the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO). Our in-house GIS team played a critical role in resolving this, meticulously mapping the revised boundaries and creating both the marketing plans and Land Registry-compliant Title Plans for submission to The Keeper. This ensured full legal accuracy and gave prospective buyers a clear understanding of the offering.

Outcome:
Marketing commenced two weeks prior to the Highland Show to maximise exposure. Despite the presence of a public footpath on the property, which made viewings harder to track, strong buyer interest led to a closing date being set just four weeks later.

Acceptable offers were received for both farms, with local buyers securing each holding. As neither required the traditional four-bedroom farmhouse included in the offering, it remained on the market separately and was successfully sold a few months later.

The coordinated efforts of our agency and GIS teams helped secure positive outcomes for the client while reinforcing Bell Ingram’s long-standing reputation in the Angus and Perthshire farming communities. Many of our agents come from agricultural backgrounds and understand the unique needs of farm sales – bringing a level of insight and trust that continues to make a difference for clients.

Farm & Estate Sales Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Planning Your Farm Sale: Why Time is Still Your Best Ally in 2025

Planning Your Farm Sale in 2025

By Malcolm Taylor, Head of Farm Sales

With the busy farm sales season just around the corner, now is the time to act if you’re considering selling your farm in 2025. As one of Scotland’s most experienced rural property teams, Bell Ingram understands the importance of timing, preparation, and local knowledge in achieving the best outcome for your sale.

Why Spring is the moment to move

Spring marks the start of peak selling season in the Scottish rural property market. Farms look their best, buyers are active, and the market tends to gain momentum. But to take full advantage of this seasonal window, your preparations should already be underway.

Local expertise you can rely on

With decades of experience in the Scottish agricultural sector, Bell Ingram’s farm sales team combines deep-rooted local knowledge with a comprehensive understanding of market trends. Whether you’re selling a productive arable unit, a mixed holding, or a traditional hill farm, we know how to position your property for maximum appeal.

Bell Ingram’s recent analysis indicate significant trends in the Scottish farmland market:

  • Demand for prime arable land is exceptionally strong.
  • Purchaser type are mostly neighbouring farmers who are looking to expand or set their sons/daughters up with their own holding.
  • Bare land sales last year achieved upto 30% above asking price.
  • One equipped unit in Angus sold for over 35% over asking price.

Get ahead: The fey steps to take now

A successful sale begins well before your property hits the market. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready:

  • Tax Planning
    Recent updates to inheritance tax rules make it vital to speak with your accountant early. Strategic planning now could help you unlock valuable reliefs and avoid surprises later.
  • Legal Preparation
    Title issues and boundary clarifications can delay a sale if left too late. Starting the legal process now with your solicitor ensures everything’s in place when the time comes.
  • Marketing that makes an impact
    A carefully crafted marketing campaign – tailored to your farm’s unique features – can dramatically increase buyer interest. We’ll advise on the best approach, whether that’s selling as a whole, splitting into lots, or enhancing the property’s presentation.

Strategic selling in 2025

In a market that’s both competitive and evolving, strategy matters. Our team works with you to make smart decisions based on your property’s strengths and current buyer demand:

  • Residential appeal
    Could minor improvements to on-site dwellings increase buyer interest or overall value?
  • Selling as a Whole or in Lots
    The right packaging can unlock greater value. We’ll help assess the most beneficial approach.
  • Know your buyer
    While lifestyle features draw interest, buyers remain focused on land quality, location, and infrastructure. Understanding your target market is key – and that’s where our insight pays off.

Don’t wait – get started today

Scotland’s agricultural market offers real opportunity in 2025 – but only for those who are prepared. At Bell Ingram, we’re already working with serious buyers looking for the right property, from bare land to equipped farms. If you’re thinking about selling, let’s talk.

Contact Malcolm Taylor on 01307 462 516 or email malcolm.taylor@bellingram.co.uk to start planning your successful farm sale today.

Farm & Estate Sales Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

I’m Hearing The Same Thing From Farmers Everywhere – They’re Thinking About Selling, Just Not Yet

I’m Hearing the Same Thing from Farmers Everywhere – They’re Thinking About Selling, Just Not Yet

By Rhona Booth, Partner

As both a farmer and someone working closely with rural clients here in Angus, I get to see things from both sides. And right now, when it comes to farm sales, there’s a definite pattern emerging.

I’ve got a lot of clients telling me they plan to sell – just not yet. The intention is there, but the commitment isn’t. Most of them are in their late 50s, with no obvious successors coming through behind them. They’re thinking about the future, they know a sale might be the right step at some point … but taking that first move is hard.

And I completely understand why.

Selling a farm isn’t just about land and money – it’s about legacy, identity, and everything that’s been built over a lifetime. Add to that the uncertainty around government support and the upcoming inheritance tax changes, and it’s no wonder people are hesitant.

From April 2026, the proposed cap on agricultural property relief for inheritance tax purpises is £1 million – means anything above that could face a hefty tax bill. For some, that’s a real trigger to start planning. But for others, it’s just another complication that makes the decision even harder.

That’s why I think this is the right time to keep the conversation going — not just this year, but over the next few. Even if you’re not ready to sell now, there’s real value in starting to explore your options early. It helps take the pressure off and gives you the chance to make informed choices when the time feels right.

Our team is here for that exact reason. We’re not here to push you into selling – just to offer a sounding board, a bit of advice, and a chance to talk things through.

If you’ve been mulling it over quietly, or you just want to understand what a sale might look like down the line, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always happy to have that first conversation – and it might be the most useful one you have this year.

Contact Rhona Booth on 01307 462 516 or email rhona.booth@bellingram.co.uk.

Farm & Estate Sales Page, Press Release Archive News

‘Serene Hideaway Island’ for sale in one of Scotland’s most stunning Sea Lochs

‘Serene Hideaway Island’ for sale in one of Scotland’s most stunning Sea Lochs

A private island with exceptional natural beauty and ecological richness has come to the market in the West Highlands, one of Scotland’s most picturesque regions.

The sale of Eilean Mor, a breathtaking 29.98-acre (12.14-hectare) island in Loch Sunart offers nature enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own their own serene hideaway island.

Accessible only by boat or a scenic low-tide causeway, Eilean Mor provides an immersive experience into Scotland’s unspoiled wilderness. With diverse terrain and stunning views of the Inner Hebrides, the island’s pristine environment is a sanctuary for native wildlife, including vibrant seabird populations and diverse marine life, offering visitors a glimpse into the thriving ecosystems of the Inner Hebrides.

Located in Loch Stunart, a sea loch off the Ardnamurchan peninsular, Eilean Mor presents a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts with herons and seals regular visitors to the loch shores. Rarer species such as golden and white tailed eagles are also known to frequent the shores.

The shores of Loch Sunart are also home to some of the finest temperate oakwoods in the British Isles. These are remnants of an extensive band of coastal woodland that once stretched down the Atlantic coast of Europe from Norway and Scotland as far as Spain and Portugal. The woodland at Sunart’s shores are home to some of Europe’s best collections of lichens, mosses and liverworts.

While currently uninhabited, Eilean Mor has a storied past that intertwines with the local heritage of the surrounding Highlands. The island, held by the same family for generations, now awaits new stewardship and invites fresh opportunity and exploration.

This property does not currently hold planning permissions, offering a blank canvas for prospective buyers who dream of a secluded retreat that captures Scotland’s authentic natural beauty and heritage.

Eilean Mor is brought to the market with rural property experts, Bell Ingram for offers over £325,000. Commenting on the sale, Estate Agent, Andrew Fuller says: “For interested parties, Eilean Mor represents more than just an investment; it is a unique chance to own a piece of Scotland’s wild beauty, a serene hideaway, and a historic landmark to be cherished and preserved for generations to come.”

Farm & Estate Sales Page, Property Case Studies

Large farm portfolio gains overseas interest

Large farm portfolio gains overseas interest

The Bonnyhill Farm Portfolio, located in and around Falkirk and Larbert in central Scotland, represents a significant agricultural asset with a combination of historical importance and operational value. Spanning approximately 513 hectares (1,269 acres), the portfolio included a working dairy, extensive agricultural land, farm buildings, and six residential properties. A noteworthy aspect of the portfolio is its inclusion within the Antonine Wall World Heritage Buffer Zone, adding an additional layer of cultural and historical significance.

Market Offering: The portfolio was brought to market with a guiding price of offers over £8,450,000. Recognising the diverse nature of the assets within the portfolio, the property was segmented into six distinct areas of land, with each being offered as a separate lot. This strategic approach aimed to maximise buyer interest by providing flexibility to potential purchasers, whether they were interested in the entire portfolio or specific segments.

Interest and Marketing: Given the scale and location of the Bonnyhill Farm Portfolio, it was anticipated that the sale would attract significant attention. This expectation was met, as interest was generated both locally and internationally. The appeal of the property was multifaceted: the operational dairy offered an ongoing business opportunity, while the agricultural land and residential properties provided potential for various agricultural and investment pursuits.

Sales Process: Following a 12-week marketing period, which included extensive promotion and viewings, a closing date was set. The strategic decision to market the portfolio in separate lots proved successful, as it allowed for a more tailored approach to different buyer needs. Ultimately, the portfolio went under offer in two separate lots, ensuring the continuity of the dairy operation. The remaining agricultural land, which supports the dairy, was included in the second lot, maintaining the synergy between the land use and the ongoing business activities.

The sale of the Bonnyhill Farm Portfolio is a case study in the successful marketing and sale of a large, multifaceted agricultural asset. The approach of offering the land in separate lots, coupled with targeted marketing that reached both local and international buyers, resulted in a positive outcome. The continued operation of the dairy, supported by the adjacent agricultural land, highlights the importance of strategic asset management in agricultural property transactions.

Farm & Estate Sales Page, Press Release Archive News

Bell Ingram brings two productive farming units to market just north of Perth

Bell Ingram brings two productive farming units to market just north of Perth

Bell Ingram is delighted to announce the release of two highly productive farming units for sale, strategically positioned just north of Perth with easy access to the A9.

Extending to approximately 91.38 hectares (225 acres), these properties are available as a whole for offers over £2,575,000 or can be purchased in three separate lots.

The farms feature a combination of predominantly Grade 3(1) land, with certain areas classified as Grade 2. The land benefits from modern agricultural infrastructure, including steel agricultural sheds constructed in 2008, 2010, and 2014, and a traditional four-bedroom farmhouse.

Property Highlights:

  • Lot 1: North Barns Farm – This lot includes the main farming unit, featuring three sizable steel agricultural sheds and a mix of Grade 2 and 3(1) land.
  • Lot 2: Coltrannie Farm – Also featuring predominantly Grade 3(1) land with easy access provided by the newly constructed Coltrannie road bridge over the A9.
  • Lot 3: North Barns Farmhouse – A traditional stone-built property with two public rooms, four bedrooms (three en suite), garden ground, and an adjacent paddock extending to about 1.08 hectares (2.67 acres).

The local area is well-served by a variety of agricultural contractors, merchants, and suppliers, with additional farming resources available through a successful local machinery ring. Regular livestock sales are conducted at the Stirling Agricultural Centre, enhancing the convenience for potential buyers.

Commenting on the property, Estate Agent Carl Warden said: “These two productive farming units, with the benefit of agricultural buildings and a traditional farmhouse, represent a rare and valuable opportunity for agricultural investors and farmers alike. Their prime location, combined with high-quality land and modern facilities, make them an exceptional offering in today’s market.”

For more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Carl Warden at 01738 621 121 or via email at carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk.

Our people

Carl Warden

Carl Warden

Partner
Estate Agency
Tel: 01738 621 121

About: Carl heads up the Residential Estate Agency division for the company and has a proven track record within the Scottish property sector. He has been marketing property in the Perth and Kinross area for over 35 years and has vast and detailed practical experience and knowledge of selling prime residential property: from period homes to contemporary developments. Carl is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. His wider role involves looking after and supporting our Agency teams and colleagues in Oban, Beauly, Ayr and Forfar. Interests: Estate Agency, Market Valuation, Negotiation.

Get in touch

We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

    Farm & Estate Sales Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

    Contract Farming Agreements – what to consider

    Contract Farming Agreements – what to consider

    By Douglas Ogilvie, Farming Consultant

    Farmers need to respond to the challenges of increasing productivity, innovation, climate crisis, extreme weather and unknown policy changes that will hopefully help boost sustainable food production while supporting the environment.

    One way is for a landowner or tenant, while remaining in complete control of their business and being an active farmer, to harness the management skills, labour, machinery, sometimes breeding livestock and technology of another farmer.

    A Contract Farming Agreement is a straightforward Agreement whereby a Landowner or Occupier (the Farmer) engages the services of another Farmer or Contractor (the Contractor) on pre-arranged terms.

    These agreements can be extremely flexible, prospectively long term and many agreements have been going for over 30 years.

    The agreements are subject to the law of contract, and it is critical that these are properly drafted. There are many instances of agreements running into difficulties during inspections because of inadequate documentation or incorrect supervision.

    It is vital therefore, that the documentation is correctly drawn up and supervised. Agreements work better with a third-party adviser being a facilitator and prevent problems festering. The adviser helps prevent mistakes, parties behaving contrary to the agreement, or it being found a sham.

    Contract Farming Agreements should be distinguished from other agreements such as tenancies, partnerships, employment agreements, share farming and short term lets.

    The Farmer usually provides:

    • The land

    • The buildings

    • Fixed equipment (eg. grain drier), although sometimes the Contractor will provide these facilities

    • Single Farm Payment, LFASS, SSBSS, SUSSS and in certain cases AECS

    • Finance to administer the agreement

    • Short and long-term policy objectives

    The Contractor usually provides:

    • Labour

    • Machinery and all associated costs

    • Breeding livestock and replacements although these can also be provided by the Farmer.

    • Management expertise to implement the farming policy

    Variable Costs and Fixed Costs

    All variable costs are paid by the No. 2 Account. The Contractor pays for all his own labour and power costs. The remaining fixed costs are paid out of the No. 2 Account and may include:

    Livestock

    Breeding livestock can be owned by either the Farmer or the Contractor.

    Finding a Contractor

    Finding the right contractor this is the most important key to a successful long-term agreement, not the financial reward.

    Finally

    These agreements work extremely well for both parties for all enterprises whether arable or livestock. They are extremely popular and very flexible.

    For further information

    Contact Douglas Ogilvie who has over 37 years’ experience of Contract Farming Agreements or one of the Bell Ingram team in your local office. Tel. 01738 621 121.

    Our people

    Douglas Ogilvie

    Douglas Ogilvie

    Associate, Farm Management Consultant
    Rural Land Management
    Tel: 01738 621 121

    About: Douglas has been involved in providing strategic farm management consultancy to private clients and public bodies in Scotland from the Borders and Lanarkshire up to Sutherland and the Highlands and Islands since 1987. Douglas is renowned for his experience in setting up, providing documentation and managing over 30 arable and livestock Contract Farming Agreements, managing farms, advising on BPS, LFASS, AECS and completing subsidy applications. Douglas joined Bell Ingram in October 2023. Interests: Farm Management.

    Get in touch

    We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

      Farm & Estate Sales Page, Press Release Archive News

      First class portfolio of farms comes to market in Stirlingshire

      First class portfolio of farms comes to market in Stirlingshire

      A large portfolio of farms in Stirlingshire including agricultural land and six dwellings has come to the open market.

      Rural Estate Agents, Bell Ingram is marketing the farms, which total 513.5 hectare (1,268.70 acres), as a whole at offers over £8,450,000 or in six individual lots.

      Bonnyhill Farm, Dykehead & Seabegs and Bonnyside Farm are all located within close proximity of the town of Bonnybridge and within about three miles of centre of Falkirk.

      The main farming units at Bonnybridge are used as a base for a dairy enterprise whilst the farms and land further east, near Larbert and Falkirk, are used mainly for the rearing of beef cattle and also for the growing of arable crops. The farms also include areas of woodland and include a number of dwellings and farm buildings.

      Estate Agent, Carl Warden comments on the sale: “We kick off the 2024 farm sales market with this large portfolio of businesses in Central Scotland. These first-class farming properties are currently used for a variety of different agricultural enterprises including dairy, beef cattle, arable crops and woodland. This sale presents an excellent opportunity for a diverse farming business looking to expand production.”

      Lot 1 – Bonnyhill Farm Dairy is a first-class dairy farm with a range of purpose-built dairy buildings and equipment, principal farmhouse and two detached modern bungalows. It extends to about 96.20 hectares (237.60 acres) and is the base for a 270-cow dairy herd. It has an asking price of offers over £2,300,000.

      Lot 2 – Dykehead and Seabegs farms include a cottage, outbuildings, farmland and woodland – 67.30 hectares (166.40 acres). It also includes an area of land at Reilly Road, which is held under Option. The land parcels are divided by railway lines and also by the Forth and Clyde Canal. Offers over £870,000.

      Lot 3 – Bonnyside Farm including outbuildings and land lies to the north of Bonnyhill Farm and adjacent to the village of Bonnybridge. The farm and land, extending to about 108.10 hectares (267.00 acres), currently operates in conjunction with the dairy enterprise and includes a farmhouse and two farm buildings which lie within the village. Offers over £1,550,000.

      Lot 4 – Househill Farm – 158.70 hectares (392.10 acres) including principal farmhouse, outbuildings and a range of land.  The farm is used as a base for a beef farming enterprise. It lies to the west of Larbert and to the southwest of the Forth Valley Hospital, adjacent to the M876 road. Offers over £2,700,000.

      Lot 5 – Arable land at Hardilands extending to approximately 62.80 hectares (155.10 acres).  Lying to the south of the Kincardine Bridge and to the northeast of Skinflats, within close proximity to the River Forth, it has an asking price of Offers over £750,000.

      Lot 6 – Arable land at Inches extending to approximately 20.40 hectares (50.50 acres) in all and lies to the north of Larbert. Offers over £280,000.

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

      Our people

      Carl Warden

      Carl Warden

      Partner
      Estate Agency
      Tel: 01738 621 121

      About: Carl heads up the Residential Estate Agency division for the company and has a proven track record within the Scottish property sector. He has been marketing property in the Perth and Kinross area for over 35 years and has vast and detailed practical experience and knowledge of selling prime residential property: from period homes to contemporary developments. Carl is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. His wider role involves looking after and supporting our Agency teams and colleagues in Oban, Beauly, Ayr and Forfar. Interests: Estate Agency, Market Valuation, Negotiation.

      Get in touch

      We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

        Farm & Estate Sales Page, Press Release Archive News, Rural Land Management Page

        Retiral leads to farm machinery dispersal sale near Hartlepool

        Farm Machinery Dispersal Sale

        SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2023 AT 11AM

        AT CLAXTON FARM, HARTLEPOOL, TS22 5PT

        On behalf of R D Dryden (retiring)

        To include: New Holland TX36 20’ cut combine K Reg, 4,040 hrs, self-levelling shoe, chopper & trolley; Clayton Bugge 24m Sprayer c/w Chafer tank; Maschio Power Harrow/Accord drill combination; 2 x Dowdeswell 5F Ploughs; Vaderstad Rapid 30 S mounted drill; Parmiter 12’6” Discs; Howard 100” Rotaspike; Lely 3 ½ m P. Harrow; Kuhn 4m & 3 ½ m P. Harrows; Twin leg sub soiler; Blench Packer; Simba 4m trailed press; Edlington 6m Rollers; N-H 286 Baler; Ritchie 56 Bale Carrier; Browns Flat 8 Sledge; 5 Round Bale Carrier; 14T Trailer; JCB 3C.

        Included by permission: Ford Ranger 19 Reg c. 26,000 miles 3.2 6 speed manual, tow bar.

        On behalf of Mrs M J Dryden: Deutz DX 450 4wd c/w Alo loader; John Deere 2650 2wd; MAN 8-163 7 ½ t Truck (no test); N-H 1530 12’ cut combine; Petbow FC48 60Kva generator; Kuhn 3m P. Harrow/Accord drill combi; J-D 359 small baler; J-D 550 R Baler; Dowdeswell 4+1 Rev Plough; Ransomes 4F Plough; 2 Sets Cambridge Rolls; Small trailed sprayer; 2 Sets Discs; P-Z Haybob; 56 Bale Carrier; Bale squeezer; Parmiter Post Knocker; Slurry Tanker; Drainage pipes; Various Dual Wheels; Rice Trailer; Manitou (scrap).

        Produce: 75 R Bales Haylage. No small tools. Refreshments available.

        Our people

        Derek Tyson

        Derek Tyson

        Partner, MRICS FAAV
        Utilities & Renewables
        Tel: 01845 522 095

        About: With over 40 years’ experience in rural land agency, Derek has responsibility for the Thirsk office providing valuation sale and management advice for our ever expanding private client base and our existing portfolio of pipeline and utility clients. Interests: Pipelines & Utilities, Rural Land Management, Valuations, Estate Agency

        Get in touch

        We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct