Opportunity to own luxury five-star holiday business ‘away from the cares of the world’
A unique lifestyle business opportunity has come to the Highland Perthshire property market.
Mid Balchandy sits in an elevated position above the Tummel Valley in the heart of Highland Perthshire. Currently owned by former art dealer, Ginny Stacy-Marks, the main house is accompanied by two cottages which are run as a successful, five star, luxury holiday let business.
On the market with premium rural estate agents, Bell Ingram for offers over £1,200,000, the three properties offer the right buyer a slice of Highland Perthshire paradise, only two and half miles from Pitlochry.
Ginny, who is originally from Sussex, says: “I am extremely privileged to live here and share this place with my guests who travel to Mid Balchandy from all over the world.
“I see my guests arrive stressed but after a night in my cosy Cottage or Bothy they look like different people – it’s then that I know I have done something right.”
With stunning views over the Tummel Valley to Strathtay, Ginny says living at Mid Balchandy feels as though you are “away from the cares of the world” as she fondly describes the properties as her “bubble on hill.”
Ginny bought the properties in 2014 when she set to work renovating the original two bedroom farmhouse to form The Cottage and Cart Shed and Hay Loft which became The Bothy with the dream of running a luxury holiday business. Following a full renovation, Ginny was able to put her love of interior design to good use by dressing the properties with furniture and decoration of the highest specification, which is available in the sale by separate negotiation.
“I feel as though I have fulfilled my dream,” Ginny continues, “I have created two stunning destinations from the old cart shed and the original farmhouse which has been a great pleasure of mine and guests often comment on the design as a deciding factor when choosing to holiday here at Mid Balchandy.”
Ginny’s eye for design is also on show in the main home, The Steading. The property is ideal for entertaining with its open plan layout that includes a large kitchen with aga, dining room, bright and spacious living room and separate garden room.
Upstairs Ginny has changed the original layout which now incorporates a master bedroom with en suite and dressing room, and an additional two spacious double bedrooms and accompanying bathrooms.
The three properties can be used in several different ways, including continuing the success of the holiday let business. Alternatively, The Steading could be used as a principal family home with the additional cottages used by parents or grandparents.
As she speaks about her next move, Ginny describes her reasons for moving on from her much loved home: “After my husband passed at age 56, I realised I needed to fulfil my ambitions at Mid Balchandy and now I have done that I feel ready to wind down. The business is thriving, and I love welcoming guests to this special place, but I am now ready to do more of the other things in life that I enjoy such as cycling and wild swimming.”
However, Highland Perthshire has made her mark on the businesswoman who plans to stay local and find the perfect plot to fulfil her next dream – a tiny eco home with its own flower meadow, this time just for one.
For more information, or to arrange a viewing contact Carl Warden on 01738 621121 or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk.
Article posted on 07/09/2022
Land Agent Catherine Lawson delivers SAAVA tutorial
Bell Ingram’s Catherine Lawson delivered the Scottish Agricultural Arbiters and Valuers’ Association (SAAVA) August tutorial at Easter Craigduckie Farm near Dunfermline recently.
The tutorial, which provides guidance and practical exam experience to probationer members in preparation for their CAAV exams, was well attended and offered plenty of discussion opportunities.
Forfar-based Associate Catherine is keen to encourage more land agents to take these examinations, preferably alongside their Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) to become a qualified chartered surveyor.
She explained: “The FAAV qualification is particularly relevant to our work as rural chartered surveyors and gives clients confidence that they are dealing with someone who really knows what they are talking about when it comes to agricultural matters.
“The exam tests the candidates’ knowledge on a broad range of agricultural topics including agricultural practices, valuation, law, taxation, rights over land, development, landlord and tenant, professional practice, and general knowledge of the countryside. However, the emphasis is very much on instilling a practical understanding of agricultural valuation and land agency and for that reason the qualification is highly respected among clients, colleagues and peers.
“The exam itself is tough and challenging, but it’s also incredibly useful preparation for what happens in the real world and the sense of accomplishment when you pass is immense.
“In my job as a Land Agent working as part of Bell Ingram’s Land Management team, I could be sitting in the office filling out IACS forms one minute or valuating land for clients the next. The variety is what makes the job so interesting and I’m glad I took CAAV Fellowship route and would strongly encourage others to do so too.”
Candidates (who will already be ‘Probationer’ members of CAAV and Scottish affiliated SAAVA) must attend the equivalent of four full day tutorials before sitting the exam. At least two years’ relevant work experience is also recommended.
The two-day exam involves written, oral and practical elements, with the latter taking place on site at a working farm with the questions replicating real life situations as closely as possible. Candidates must gain a mark of 65% overall, with 60% or more in each of the three elements in order to pass the exam.
SAAVA Secretary Debbie Edmondson said: “Well done to all involved in the recent tutorial at Craigduckie Farm and especially Catherine Lawson for all the advance preparation which SAAVA greatly appreciates. A lot of hard work goes on behind the scenes to deliver these training days. Very best of luck to our probationary members sitting the CAAV exams in November.”
The location of Easter Craigduckie Farm (Craigduckie Shepherds Huts) was by kind permission of former Bell Ingram Land Agent (and now consultant) Katie Roberts and family.
Article posted on 07/09/2022
New inquiry into sustainable timber and deforestation
A new parliamentary inquiry will examine the UK’s sustainable timber industry and the UK’s contribution to global deforestation.
The inquiry by the Environmental Audit Committee will investigate how the UK, which imports most of its timber, can best scale up a sustainable, resilient domestic timber sector and reduce its reliance on imports.
In addition, the inquiry will examine the degree to which UK supply chains contribute to deforestation overseas and the effectiveness of the government’s efforts to curb this. Consideration will also be given to how the UK works with international partners to tackle deforestation.
Geoff Brown, Bell Ingram’s Head of Forestry, said: “I’m sure that this new inquiry into the UK timber industry and global deforestation will be welcomed across the forestry sector as it’s vital that we ensure our timber industry is future proofed and can support ambitious net zero targets across the UK’s four administrations while at the same time giving us a better understanding of the worldwide impact of any imports.”
This inquiry welcomes submissions until Thursday 8 September 2022. Search the UK Government website for more details.
Find out more about our Forestry services here.
Article posted on 01/09/2022
Modern family living on offer at brand new development close to Huntly
Bell Ingram is delighted to bring a stunning new development of family homes, close to Huntly, Aberdeenshire, to the market.
The Steading comprises five family homes with prices ranging between £210,000 and £325,000. Additional land for grazing or additional garden space is available by separate negotiation.
Surrounded by farmland and rolling hills, the hamlet is located on the edge of the village of Forgue and close to historic GlenDronach Distillery.
The attractive three- and four-bedroom properties are currently under construction with anticipated completion dates from November 2022. Modern in their outlook, the properties provide luxurious living and entertainment space for growing families.
1 & 2 The Steading are both detached four-bedroom homes with integral double garages. 2 The Steading sits adjacent to a large outbuilding extending to about 4500 ft2 and this is being separately offered with this house and will be restricted to private non-commercial use only.
3 The Steading is a detached three-bedroom home with an integral garage, while 4 & 5 The Steading will be two semi-detached three-bedroom homes.
Primary schooling is available at Forgue with further primary and secondary schooling at Huntly. The village of Forgue is situated around 10 miles from Huntly, an historic town which prospered during the 18th century through the expanding linen industry. Today, there is a swimming pool, sports grounds, golf course, play park and river walks.
Commenting on the new development, Head of Estate Agency, Carl Warden says: “This development is an exciting addition to the housing market in the North East, offering potential buyers the opportunity for modern family living in a glorious setting.
“Judging by initial reaction, this will be a popular development and we would encourage those who are interested in reserving a plot to get in touch as soon as possible.”
For more information, or to arrange a viewing contact Carl Warden on 01738 621121 or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk.
Article posted on 25/08/2022
Stunning converted farmhouse offers idyllic family life for new owners
Listening to Graham Wilson talk about his much-loved home at Achavaich, a family haven for the last two decades, it’s a story of idyllic childhoods and carefree rural living that you can’t help to be in awe of.
Achavaich near Connell in Argyll and Bute is a beautifully presented traditional farmhouse with converted barn, set in the stunning surroundings with far reaching views across the undulating countryside.
Once home to Graham’s young family with two girls, the house was a beloved family home during their childhood years where they have cherished memories of walking out the front gate to the nearby hills and beyond.
After moving to Glasgow for work commitments the home was passed on to Graham’s parents who stayed in Achavaich before moving on to residential care.
“The girls have happy memories of the home, especially the surrounding countryside – the hills and sea were their playgrounds. They have a real attachment to the Achavaich, especially as it was passed on to grandparents after we moved south,” Graham says.
Graham’s family bought the home from the surrounding Estate when they upgraded the traditional farmhouse into a comfortable family home. The home comprises two bedrooms and the large barn conversion maintains original features including exposed beams and a free-standing log burner.
Adding to the ambience, an open grate fireplace sits within a wooden fire surround in one of the traditional living areas, offering warmth and comfort in equal measure. To the front of the property, a doorway leads to the conservatory, which in turn offers superb, panoramic views across the front garden and surrounding countryside to Ben Cruachan.
The property is surrounded by mature garden gardens to the front and rear, with a carefully chosen selection of plants and shrubs creating floral display throughout the year.
Achavaich is set on the fringe of the popular coastal village of Connel, a short drive from the villages of North Connel and Benderloch. Graham describes the rural setting as the perfect place for a carefree childhood with fond memories of letting his children roam freely around the grounds.
Finally, Graham adds: “With the passing of my father and move of my mother to residential care, the circle has now been completed for our family at Achavaich, and although we will always be connected to the local area, we are looking forward passing the home on to another family or couple to make their own cherished memories in this special place.”
For more information, or to arrange a viewing contact Andrew Fuller on 01631 566122 or email andrew.fuller@bellingram.co.uk.
Article posted on 17/08/2022
Opportunity to make your mark on Moray countryside
Nestled in the quiet Moray countryside between Keith and Huntly, sits two premium plots ready for development into the perfect country homes for the right buyers.
Anderson Ward and Bridge of Fowlwood at Knock are on the market with premium rural estate agents, Bell Ingram for offers over £60,000, respectively.
The plots offer buyers a great opportunity to relocate to an attractive rural area with picturesque views of the surrounding undulating countryside, including the heather clad Knock Hill, a prominent feature in the local landscape.
The south facing plots both come with planning permission in principle for detached family homes and have already received significant interest from international buyers looking to build in Scotland’s magnificent countryside.
Another draw is the proximity to whisky country. The plots are located close to the picturesque village of Knock, famous for its Knockdhu distillery which produces anChoc single malt whisky. Meanwhile, the famous whisky producing region of Speyside can be found an hour’s drive away.
Bell Ingram’s Aberdeen Partner, James Petty commented on the sale: “These plots offer the right buyer an excellent opportunity to build in an attractive part of the world. Whether it is a home for a retired couple or busy family home, the rural location coupled with the closeness to amenities, including transport links, in nearby Keith and Huntly, means this is a sale which will attract many different types of buyers.
“We have already had significant international interest for the plots from potential buyers looking to relocate to a quiet and relaxing part of the world, we would therefore encourage those looking for similar opportunities to not delay in getting in touch.”
For more information, or to arrange a viewing for Anderson Ward or Bridge of Fowlwood contact James Petty on 01224 621300 or email james.petty@bellingram.co.uk
Article posted on 13/07/2022
One of Perthshire’s most impressive properties hits the market
A unique opportunity to purchase one of Perthshire’s most impressive properties is on the market with premium rural estate agents, Bell Ingram.
With five reception rooms, five bedrooms and master suite with sauna, the property is grand in its stature and offers potential buyers a mix of character and luxury modern living.
On the market for offers over £875,000, the home is situated in one of Perthshire’s most sought-after locations at Trinity Gask near Auchterarder.
In its present form, the house represents decades of work to sympathetically extend and develop the original two storey house, which dates back to 1900. Both internally and externally the house has unusual character and charm and offers extensive accommodation within a traditional design.
The house is extremely well appointed and has been thoughtfully laid out and developed to provide outstanding character combined with modern comforts. Natural light floods most parts of the property, and the rooms are of generous proportions with many having double or triple windows.
Set in tranquil surroundings extending to 1.1 acres, the villa’s gardens are one the properties highlights. Featuring undulating lawns, woodland, herbaceous and flower borders, and a feature ornamental pond and adjacent decking.
Carefully designed to offer a wealth of spring and summertime colour, the serene gardens require little maintenance beyond lawn mowing and offer potential buyers a real oasis of calm.
The villa is centrally located providing easy access to transport links across Scotland. Meanwhile for families, some of Scotland’s most prestigious private schools are within a 30minute drive of the villa.
Perfect for leisure activities, the prestigious Gleneagles Hotel is also situated just six miles away, while the wider regions offer excellent fishing, stalking, and shooting opportunities.
Estate Agent, Carl Warden comments on the sale: “We are delighted to bring this property to the market, which presents a rare opportunity to own a truly impressive home in one of the country’s most sought after locations.
“With close proximity to prestigious schools and amenities, coupled with its stunning private grounds, the home would suit family life as well as those looking for a quiet escape in a wonderful part of the world.”
For more information, or to arrange a viewing contact Carl Warden on 01738 621121 or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk
Article posted on 29/06/2022
Off grid living at historic bothy home on the Isle of Jura
What started as an 19th century shepherd’s hut on the Ardulussa Estate on the magnificent Isle of Jura is now a wonderful off grid home looking for new owners.
Lealt is on the market with premium rural estate agents, Bell Ingram for offers over £475,000.
Built circa 1850, the house sits on ground extending to approximately 1.41 hectares and benefits from far reaching views over the surrounding countryside.
Its current owners have owned the property since 1995 and since then have transformed the derelict building into a comfortable two-bedroom home with eco credentials.
When seeing the property in its previous state, the owner Richard Mayes, says: “After a good cry…we bought the place. Then we sat down and decided what we’d like Lealt to look like when we’d finished. In a nutshell we wanted to completely renovate the place but retain all the existing character and add some more light and air.
“Then in January we started taking Lealt to pieces. Everything except the four outside walls had to go. Now family and friends can wallow in comfort and warmth lit by the wind!”
The property is completely off grid with electricity provided by its own generation system based on the power of wind, water and sun. With its own wind turbine and water turbine, built in the property’s burn which by itself generates 7.5kw per day satisfying all the basic electrical needs.
As a backup, Mr Mayes also installed six solar panels to produce electricity. A battery system is used so that all surplus energy can be stored and used at a later date meaning there is zero reliance on the grid.
The Island of Jura is a most picturesque island and one that is little explored by tourists, many of whom do not venture north beyond the coastal village of Craighouse. It has a rich natural heritage with much to attract those who wish to enjoy hill walking and the outdoors.
George Orwell said during his time on the island writing his novel 1984 “it is an extremely unforgettable place” and it is definitely still today a place to come and get away from it all.
Estate Agent, Andrew Fuller comments on the sale: “It’s not everyday you have such a unique property equally rich in history and modern in its outlook.
“Eco friendly homes and off grid living is proving increasingly popular in the Highland and Islands and given the uniqueness of Lealt and its prime position on the ever-popular Isle of Jura, we envisage this property to be very desirable and would encourage those interested not to delay in arranging a viewing.”
For more information please contact Andrew Fuller on 01631 566122 or email oban@bellingram.co.uk
Article posted on 28/06/2022