Cautious positivity defines the Highland residential market

Now that the dust has settled on the turbulent conditions we’ve seen in recent years, the Highland residential market appears to be transitioning towards a more normal level of activity in what is traditionally the busiest time of the year for sellers.

Joanne Stennett, who leads the Bell Ingram’s agency team in Beauly, says: “Last year was a successful one for the Highland team with 92% of the 52 properties we sold achieving the asking price or more.

“Although the fluctuating mortgage rates and the cost-of-living crisis will inevitably impact 2023’s market conditions, we are seeing plenty of requests for market appraisals, at a level similar to the same period in 2019’s more normal market.

“There is definitely a feeling of cautious positivity, and it appears that buyers have more confidence and more choice albeit with revised budgets to accommodate higher mortgage rates.

“Pricing, particularly at the upper end of the market, is definitely looking more realistic which would suggest that sellers are heeding their agents’ advice that over-priced property is not attracting interest in this under-supplied market.”

New instructions in the traditionally popular Highland villages are still generating a lot of interest.

Joanne adds: “Getting your presentation and marketing right is hugely important if you want your property to stand out. Once you have made the decision to sell with Bell Ingram, we will arrange for one of our professional photographers to showcase your property at its best. As well as producing a high quality brochure we offer a  number of online platforms to allow your property to be viewed by the right buyers.

“With a wealth of experience in the local residential market, speak to me, or any member of the agency team at Bell Ingram for professional advice and expert guidance to selling your home.

Currently for sale through Bell Ingram Highland are:

Borlum House, Thurso, o/o £975,000 – An impressive, extensively refurbished country house dating from circa 1700, together with two recently completed self-catering cottages, excellent equestrian facilities and approximately 78 acres of land.

Ceol Na Mara and Bayview, Benbecula, o/o £400,000 – Two-bedroom bungalow together with one-bedroom self-catering cottage set in the most amazing waterside location on the Island of Benbecula.

South Boisdale, South Uist, o/o £325,000 – A rare opportunity to create a unique new home in an outstanding prime island location.

Ty Cymro, Berneray, o/o £225,000 – B listed one-bedroom black house situated in a conservation area in a waterside location on the island of Berneray with stunning sea views.

Lilac Cottage, Struy, Beauly, o/o £225,000 – Four-bedroom detached cottage set in a quiet location in the popular hamlet of Struy.

1 Redwood Crescent, Inverness, o/o £400,000 – Spacious five-bedroom detached bungalow situated in the desirable area of Milton of Leys, Inverness.