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.

Bell Ingram celebrates perfect score at Achilles Audit

Bell Ingram has achieved an outstanding 100% score in the recent Achilles Audit, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Achilles Audits are independent assessments that rigorously evaluate an organisation’s management systems to ensure they meet specific standards. These audits validate our capability, competence, and compliance as a supplier organisation, reinforcing our position as a trusted and reliable partner.

Commenting on the success of the Achilles Audit, Bell Ingram’s Compliance Manager, Samantha McDonald says: “Bell Ingram is delighted to have maintained its 100% rating through Achilles. It demonstrates our continued commitment to maintaining the highest possible standards of health & safety and quality assurance. The results also reflect our commitment to sustainability and community welfare through our environmental and corporate social responsibility policies.

“The results are a credit to our teams who consistently uphold these high standards throughout all the work we do.”

Partner Geoff Brown added: “A fantastic result once again and testament to Sam’s hard work and that of the team. Well done everyone.”

Read more about Achilles and the work they do here: achilles.com

Local knowledge and market insight produces desired result for client

Our Estate Agency team in Perth was recently entrusted with the sale of two productive farming units located at Bankfoot, offering a unique opportunity for buyers interested in high-quality agricultural land. The properties, North Barns Farm and Coltrannie Farm, were predominantly classified as Grade 3(1) with areas of Grade 2. Given the prime location and the quality of the land, we devised a tailored marketing strategy that capitalised on our local knowledge and market insights. 

North Barns Farm (Lot 1) lies mainly to the east of the A9 and extends to 43 ha (107 acres) or level or gently sloping land.  Coltrannie Farm (Lot 2) extends to 47 ha (116 acres) and is mainly on the west side of the A9.  

Lot 3 is a very traditional stone-built, four-bedroom farmhouse with a surrounding garden, garage and sheds. This lot also included an option to purchase the paddock to the front which would add a further 2.67 acres.  Marketed together with modern agricultural sheds at offers over £1,150,000. 

Leveraging Local Knowledge: Our team’s deep understanding of the local market and buyer behaviour in the Perth area played a crucial role in the sale. We recognised that the timing of the sale would be pivotal. By launching the properties just ahead of the Royal Highland Show (RHS), we ensured that they would not be overshadowed by other farm listings that typically flood the market during this period. 

Strategic Marketing Timing: The decision to market the properties slightly before the RHS allowed us to showcase them on the Bell Ingram stand at the show, a prime opportunity to capture the attention of a wider audience, including potential buyers from outside the local area. This timing also enabled us to create a buzz around the properties, increasing their visibility and desirability. 

Flexible Lotting Structure: Offering the farms as separate lots or as a whole provided prospective buyers with options that suited their specific needs. This flexibility attracted a broader range of buyers, from those interested in expanding their existing agricultural operations to those looking for a traditional farmhouse with potential for lifestyle use. 

After a six week marketing period, during which interest in the properties grew steadily, we set a closing date for offers. This approach not only created a sense of urgency among buyers but also allowed us to manage the sale process effectively, ensuring that all interested parties had the opportunity to submit their best offers. 

The traditional Stone-Built Farmhouse remains on the market, offering potential to attract a buyer with a lifestyle interest or someone seeking a charming rural property. The flexible purchasing option, including the additional paddock, enhances its appeal. 

Established Luxury Chalet Portfolio in the Scottish Highlands Hits the Market

A rare opportunity has emerged in the Scottish Highlands as a portfolio of four luxury holiday chalets in Ardendrain, near Kiltarlity, has been listed for sale by Scottish estate agents Bell Ingram.

Priced at offers over £500,000, this established holiday business offers significant growth potential in a thriving tourism market.

The chalet park, situated just five miles from Beauly and 11 miles from Inverness, is positioned to capitalise on the increasing popularity of UK staycations. The location offers stunning views and proximity to popular tourist attractions, making it a sought-after destination for holidaymakers.

The chalets, each featuring three bedrooms, have recently undergone extensive upgrades to provide modern, stylish accommodation.

With three decades of successful operation under the same family ownership, the park has built a strong reputation, evidenced by a high rate of returning visitors. The existing business generates reliable income, and with Planning Permission already secured for the addition of two more chalets, there is clear potential for expansion and increased revenue.

Joanne Stennett, the estate agent handling the sale, noted: “This is an exceptional opportunity for investors looking to acquire a lifestyle business in one of Scotland’s most beautiful locations. With the current trend towards domestic travel, this property offers a secure investment with room for growth. The retiring owners are prepared to provide detailed financial records to serious buyers.”

Interested parties are encouraged to contact Joanne Stennett at 01463 717799 for further information or to arrange a viewing. 

Our people

Joanne Stennett

Joanne Stennett

Associate
Estate Agency
Tel: 01463 717 799

About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

Get in touch

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

    Rare chance to own a slice of Unst’s architectural heritage

    A slice of Shetland history has come to the market with the sale of a portfolio of properties located on the UK’s northernmost point, the Island of Unst.

    Nestled on the banks of Loch of Cliff, Houlland House, Steading and Da Laggans hold significant architectural and historical value and represent an integral part of the local heritage on Unst.

    Currently cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, the conservation charity is seeking new owners who can bring these properties to life while continuing to care for and preserve their architectural significance.

    Alongside the main residency, Houlland House, the sale includes a C listed agricultural steading and a second lot, a small cottage called Da Laggans. Each building offers a unique glimpse into the architectural styles and construction methods that were prevalent in Shetland. The properties were originally part of the larger Gardie Estate and early census records shows Houlland House inhabited as far back as 1841.

    The Steading has earned a C listing due to its significance locally as it is unique to Unst with only one other similar steading on the island, representing an important part of local agricultural history.

    The portfolio of properties were gifted to the National Trust for Scotland by Joy Sandison and the charity is now bringing these properties to market for the benefit of the Halligarth Project. All funds support the Trust’s charitable purpose and will be reinvested into the project that aims to deliver lasting impact for locals and visitors.

    Prospective buyers are asked to submit proposals for the properties with their intensions of use, which will be reviewed by the Trust. A National Trust for Scotland Conservation Burden will be applied to the title to ensure that renovation proposals are appropriate.

    Unst is renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage and provides a picturesque setting for these historic properties. The island is famed for its rugged beauty, vibrant wildlife, and traditional Shetland culture, making it an attractive destination for those seeking tranquillity and a connection to Scotland’s rural roots.

    The properties are being offered as a whole for offers over £150,000 by rural property specialists, Bell Ingram. Alternatively, they are available for purchase in two separate lots, providing a rare opportunity for buyers to own a piece of Shetland’s storied past.

    Moira Webley, Estate Agent at Bell Ingram, comments on the sale: “These properties are not just buildings; they are a testament to the rich agricultural history of Unst and Shetland as a whole. Their architectural significance and the care they have received from the National Trust for Scotland make them a truly unique offering. We are excited to bring these properties to market and look forward to finding buyers who will appreciate and preserve their historical importance.”

    For more information on these properties visit bellingram.co.uk or contact Moira Webley on 01738 621 121, or email moira.webley@bellingram.co.uk.

    Our people

    Joanne Stennett

    Joanne Stennett

    Associate
    Estate Agency
    Tel: 01463 717 799

    About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

    Get in touch

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

      Charming Coastal Cottage in the Heart of Reef, Isle of Lewis

      Nestled in the tranquil and scenic hamlet of Reef on the Isle of Lewis, this beautifully presented, C-listed, two-bedroom stone-built cottage is a true gem. Bell Ingram is delighted to present 11A Reef, Isle of Lewis, to the market for offers over £325,000.

      Set within the vibrant crofting community of the Valtos Peninsula, Reef offers a picturesque escape amidst the hills and beaches of the Uig area on the West Coast of the Isle of Lewis. This delightful detached property boasts stunning water views across neighbouring croft land, extending to the sea and the majestic hills of Harris beyond.

      Reef is situated in a quiet location within a thriving crofting community on the community-owned Valtos Peninsula. It is surrounded by spectacular hills, a rugged coastline, and stunning, unpolluted beaches at Reef, Cliff, and elsewhere on the peninsula. The area is renowned for its natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquillity and breathtaking scenery.

      The cottage welcomes you with a UPVC door leading into a charming open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area. The cozy living room, with a window to the front, showcases breathtaking views over the croft land to the sea and hills. A wood-burning stove set on a stone hearth with a stone surround adds to the warmth and character of the space.

      The kitchen, equipped with a range of cream floor and wall units and a wood-effect work surface, includes an integrated electric oven with a four-ring ceramic hob, fridge, freezer, and washer-dryer. Dual-aspect windows in the dining area provide a perfect spot to enjoy meals with a backdrop of beautiful views.

      Ascending the stairs from the sitting room, you reach the upper floor landing, which leads to two well-appointed bedrooms and a bathroom. Both bedrooms offer elevated, far-reaching views over the water and the hills, ensuring a serene and picturesque outlook.

      The property features a charming lawned garden to the front, complete with a path leading to the gate. The garden wraps around the property and is fully enclosed with stock fencing, offering a safe and private outdoor space. Additionally, there is off-street parking available at the front of the cottage.

      The Uig area, tucked among picturesque hills and beaches, offers a wealth of amenities. Uig boasts an award-winning village shop with petrol, serviced laundry, and post office. An excellent primary school, a village museum, hall, and cafe with electric car charging are all within reach. The village hall hosts regular concerts, ceilidhs, and activities. Dining options include the upscale Uig Sands and the Reef Raider trailer cafe near 11A Reef. A request bus service connects Uig to Stornoway, where you’ll find facilities such as a hospital, arts centre, library, museum, cafes, bars, and restaurants, along with two supermarkets. Regular ferries sail to Ullapool, and Loganair flights connect Stornoway to Inverness, Glasgow, and Edinburgh, with further connections to London.

      The island of Lewis and Harris, part of the Outer Hebrides, is famed for its crofting villages, hills, beaches, lochs, and world-renowned rivers ideal for angling and stalking. Historic sites, including Standing Stones, Brochs, Viking Mills, and the Uig Chessmen, are significant attractions. The island’s rich birdlife and vast carpets of Hebridean wildflowers further enhance its allure.

      Joanne Stennett, the estate agent managing the sale, comments: “This charming cottage is an ideal retreat, offering a blend of traditional character and modern comfort with unparalleled views. It’s perfect for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.”

      For more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717 799 or email joanne.stennett@bellingram.co.uk

       

      Our people

      Joanne Stennett

      Joanne Stennett

      Associate
      Estate Agency
      Tel: 01463 717 799

      About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

      Get in touch

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

        Discover Tranquillity and Charm at Flat 1B, Free Church Manse on the Isle of Coll

        Bell Ingram Oban presents a unique five-bedroom property offering historic charm and modern comforts.

        Bell Ingram Oban is delighted to present Flat 1B, Free Church Manse, a hidden gem nestled within the picturesque coastal village of Arinagour on the Isle of Coll. This spacious five-bedroom property, rich in history and modern comforts, is a versatile retreat ideal for family living or holiday getaways in one of Scotland’s most stunning island settings.

        The Isle of Coll is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and serene environment, providing the perfect backdrop for this charming two-floor residence. The classic stone façade of the former Free Church Manse greets you upon arrival, a testament to the building’s historical significance within the local community. Inside, the flat offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, seamlessly blending contemporary style with traditional elements.

        Accessed from the first floor by the original stone staircase, the flat is tastefully decorated and designed to maximise comfort and functionality. Andrew Fuller, Estate Agent at Bell Ingram Oban, describes the property: “A spacious living area is located on the first floor, bathed in natural light, thanks to dual aspect windows that offer far-reaching views of the village and surrounding countryside.

        “The kitchen extends through to combine with dining and lounge areas, a wonderful place to socialise with family and friends. The accommodation is split between the first and upper floors, five bedrooms in total, offering flexibility for alternate uses, as required.”

        One of the standout features of Flat 1B is its central island location. The Isle of Coll is renowned for its wildlife, unspoiled beaches, and outdoor activities.

        Andrew Fuller adds: “Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a beachcomber, or someone who simply enjoys the great outdoors, this island has something for everyone. The local community is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to feel at home.”

        The property also offers the convenience of being close to essential amenities, including local shops and transport links, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an escape from city life without sacrificing convenience.

        Flat 1B, Free Church Manse is truly a rare find, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern living in a spectacular setting.

        For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact Andrew Fuller at 01631 566 122 or email andrew.fuller@bellingram.co.uk

        Our people

        Andrew Fuller

        Andrew Fuller

        Senior Associate
        Estate Agency
        Tel: 01631 566 122

        About: Andrew heads up the Estate Agency team in our Oban office and is focused on ensuring his clients have a first-class experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. A resident of the Isle of Mull, Andrew is very well known across the West Coast of Scotland and has developed an excellent reputation for marketing prime residential property, including plots, crofts, island homes and lifestyle opportunities. Andrew joined Bell Ingram following almost 15 years managing several high-level private and commercial development projects in the United Arab Emirates. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

        Get in touch

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

          Market Overview: Continued Demand for Rural Land

          Demand for land remains high across the rural property spectrum, from standalone, working farms right through to small parcels and pony paddocks.

          In coastal Angus, prime arable land can reach up to £20,000 per acre, reflecting the area’s high yielding soils for crops, fruit and vegetables. Secondary arable and temporary grassland prices have seen slight increases over the last two years, while poorer quality parcels remain stable.

          While there’s been a decrease in land brought to the open market, private deals continue as neighbours are quietly approached and take up what may be a “once in a lifetime” opportunity to buy the land next door. Interestingly, estates like The Crown are selling to sitting tenants, boosting owner occupation and further reducing areas held under tenancy.

          The Scottish estate market has seen private deals continuing, though natural capital buyers and forestry investment companies are quieter compared to a few years ago, with the heat in the market not quite what it was in 2023. Political factors are influencing traditional Scottish sporting estates, with deer management requirements, Muirburn limitations, and the potential for grouse shoot licenses affecting freedom of ownership.

          Stalking estates are adapting to increasing deer numbers, with good larder facilities becoming essential. On the rivers, poor catches exacerbated by drier summers in some areas could impact salmon values and rental figures for fishing estates.

          Forestry, as always, still offers tax benefits, but demand for new planting land has slowed, leading to reduced prices from the highs of 2022. Significant delays in approval processes in Scotland are affecting initial cash flows, while existing commercial woodland properties remain in demand, albeit with declining values. The future will see more stable returns than the highs of recent years for both the forest asset and the timber produced. At a local level, small amenity woods remain popular and increasingly community purchases reflect the general population’s interest in nature.

          In the North of England, land values remain relatively steady, with ongoing activity across the region. It is certainly fair to say that higher UK interest rates and economic uncertainties globally have tempered premiums over guide prices across all sectors of the property market in the UK.

          Our people

          Sarah Tyson

          Sarah Tyson

          Partner, FRICS FAAV
          Rural Land Management
          Tel: 01738 621 121

          About: Sarah is an experienced rural property surveyor dealing with all types of valuations, renewable energy, estate management and property consultancy across Scotland . She is an Appointed Agent and Valuer for the Agricultural Mortgage Corporation providing competitive finance for farmers and landowners. Interests: AMC Services, Renewable Energy, Rural Land Management, Valuations, FRICS FAAV Registered Valuer.

          Get in touch

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

            Luxurious Kinellen Country House Hits the Market for £800,000

            Bell Ingram is proud to announce the sale of Kinellen, a luxurious five to six-bedroom detached country house, now available for offers over £800,000. Nestled in a highly sought-after rural setting near Muir of Ord, this exquisite property boasts spectacular panoramic views across the Conon Valley, extending to Ben Wyvis and the majestic Northwest Highlands.

            Constructed in 2005, Kinellen stands as a substantial family home, featuring sandstone exterior walls on its main elevations and set within extensive, beautifully landscaped garden grounds. The house is impeccably maintained and showcases top-tier craftsmanship with high-quality, solid oak fixtures and fittings throughout.

            Designed with both elegance and functionality in mind, Kinellen welcomes residents with a striking double-height reception hall, bathed in natural light from an expansive roof window. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, equipped with a double oven Aga and meticulously crafted fittings. Spacious rooms are thoughtfully arranged to maximise the breathtaking views, offering luxurious family accommodations, including the convenience of an internal lift to the upper floor.

            The exterior of the property is equally impressive, with a block-paved driveway meandering through a wooded front garden, leading to ample parking for multiple vehicles. A sandstone-paved patio encircles the back of the house, providing an ideal space for outdoor entertainment. The rear garden features a charming stone dyke boundary, with lush lawns, planted beds, borders, and mature trees. The front garden is adorned with ornamental bushes and mature trees, enhancing the property’s tranquil ambiance.

            Joanne Stennett, Estate Agent at Bell Ingram, highlights the property’s allure: “Kinellen is a stunning property. The extremely high-quality fixtures and fittings, beautifully proportioned rooms, well-maintained gardens, and far-reaching views make a winning combination.”

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

            Our people

            Joanne Stennett

            Joanne Stennett

            Associate
            Estate Agency
            Tel: 01463 717 799

            About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

            Get in touch

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

              Embracing Opportunities in the Scottish Highlands

              As we transition into the vibrant months of May and June, Bell Ingram is delighted to report a surge in property listings following a damp start to the year. The Scottish Highlands, with its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil environment, continues to attract a diverse range of buyers, and our estate agency is at the forefront of this dynamic market.

              High Demand for Semi-Rural Properties

              One notable trend we’ve observed is the increasing popularity of semi-rural properties. These homes, offering a perfect blend of solitude and accessibility, have captured the hearts of many buyers. Properties that are set alone yet provide easy access to local amenities are particularly favoured. At Bell Ingram, we have been witnessing high demand in this segment, with numerous properties selling at a significant uplift. This trend underscores the unique appeal of the Highlands, where residents can enjoy the peace of rural living without sacrificing convenience.

              Middle Market Momentum

              The middle market has also shown remarkable resilience and growth. Buyers in this market have found it easier to secure mortgages, fostering greater confidence and activity. This accessibility to financing options has invigorated the market, allowing more individuals and families to pursue their dream homes in the Highlands.

              Looking Ahead: Market Expectations

              While the market is currently robust, we understand that some buyers remain cautious, waiting to see if the Bank of England will lower interest rates. Should this happen, we anticipate an even more buoyant market. However, we are mindful that this potential uptick could coincide with the quieter summer months, when many people are enjoying their holidays. Regardless of these seasonal fluctuations, Bell Ingram is prepared to navigate these changes, ensuring our clients receive the best possible service and opportunities.

              Why Choose Bell Ingram?

              Bell Ingram’s deep-rooted expertise and local knowledge make us the ideal partner for those looking to buy or sell property in the Scottish Highlands. Our team is dedicated to providing personalised service, leveraging our extensive network and market insights to deliver exceptional results. Whether you’re seeking a secluded rural retreat or a conveniently located home, we have the resources and commitment to help you find your perfect property.

              For more information on our listings and services, please visit click here,  or contact our team directly on 01463 717799. We look forward to helping you find your dream home in the Scottish Highlands.

               

              Our people

              Joanne Stennett

              Joanne Stennett

              Associate
              Estate Agency
              Tel: 01463 717 799

              About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

              Get in touch

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

                Additional Dwelling Supplement and what it means for second home owners in Scotland

                Our Oban Estate Agent Andrew Fuller discusses Additional Dwelling Supplement in Scotland.

                The Additional Dwelling Supplement (ADS) is a tax measure in Scotland aimed at curbing the acquisition of second homes and investment properties with the hope of promoting home ownership among residents. The tax applies to the purchase of additional residential properties, including holiday homes and buy-to-let properties and is applicable if the total purchase price of the property exceeds £40,000.

                Anyone purchasing a second or subsequent residential property in Scotland may be liable for ADS. This includes individuals, companies, and other entities. It’s important to note that ADS is payable in addition to the standard Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT). For example, if you already own a home and decide to buy another, you will be required to pay ADS on the new property, regardless of whether it’s an investment or a holiday retreat.

                The ADS rate is currently set at 6% of the total purchase price of the property. This rate is applied uniformly, meaning there’s no tiered system as with LBTT. For instance, on a property purchased for £250,000, the ADS would amount to £15,000. As demonstrated, ADS can result in a significant addition to the overall purchase price. As professional estate agents, it is our duty to make purchasers aware of the ADS in order that this tax can be factored in pre-offer.

                Bell Ingram Oban recently listed a single portfolio of three island properties, comprising three-bedroom family residence and two self-contained one-bedroom holiday letting cottages, all set within around 19 acres of coastal frontage. Whist the main three-bedroom residence is highly likely to become a family home, the two letting cottages are each subject to the ADS. In this instance, the valuation of the main house is covered by the mortgage valuation within the Home Report, therefore an independent valuation is required to determine the taxable value for each cottage.

                The implementation of ADS reflects the Scottish Government’s commitment to improve housing affordability and availability for primary residences by discouraging the acquisition of multiple properties by investors and/or wealthier individuals. The aim is to level the playing field by giving first-time buyers a better chance in a competitive property market. Prospective buyers of second homes or investment properties must carefully consider this additional cost when planning their purchases.

                If you are looking for property advice in the Argyll & Bute region, contact our Oban team on 01631 566 122 or email Andrew.fuller@bellingram.co.uk.

                Our people

                Andrew Fuller

                Andrew Fuller

                Senior Associate
                Estate Agency
                Tel: 01631 566 122

                About: Andrew heads up the Estate Agency team in our Oban office and is focused on ensuring his clients have a first-class experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. A resident of the Isle of Mull, Andrew is very well known across the West Coast of Scotland and has developed an excellent reputation for marketing prime residential property, including plots, crofts, island homes and lifestyle opportunities. Andrew joined Bell Ingram following almost 15 years managing several high-level private and commercial development projects in the United Arab Emirates. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

                Get in touch

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

                  Scottish Government opens consultation on Crofting Reform

                  Crofting has a high historical and cultural importance to the Highland and Islands communities. Unique to Scotland, the land tenure promotes sustainable land use by local individuals where the land has often been crofted by their families for generations.

                  According to the Crofting Commission there are approximately 21,500 Crofts recorded. To be a Crofter, the owner or the tenant of the Croft, must ordinarily be resident on, or within 32km of, their croft, they have a duty to cultivate and maintain their croft or put it to another purposeful use and they have a duty not to misuse of neglect their croft.

                  The main pieces of legislation relating to crofting are the Crofters (Scotland) Act 1993, as amended by the Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, the Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 and the Crofting (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2013. Now, the Scottish Government has opened up a consultation on proposals for changes and simplifications to crofting law. They are seeking views on proposals on:

                  Entry to crofting

                  Crofting communities

                  Use of Common Grazings

                  Strengthening residency and land use

                  Enhance Crofting Commission powers

                  Simplifying crofting

                  The government wish to build on previous reforms to help more people to become crofters and improve support for existing crofters, enable more and different activities to take place on common grazings such as projects that are in line with environmental initiatives, streamline the process for breaches of crofters duties and to resolve crofting regulatory issues more quickly.

                  At present, only one crofter can be registered to a croft and any assignation of a crofting tenancy can only be to one person. One of the proposals considers being able to create a joint crofting tenancy which would allow two people to be registered to a single croft. This is to be inline with other forms of tenancies available in the country such as the residential PRT agreements.

                  Senior Surveyor at Bell Ingram, Hamish Hope comments: “The thought behind this is to allow crofters to use more resources from each party and in situations where an older crofter wishes to pass their tenancy to another family member but still wishes to remain as a tenant. The risk here is that a crofting tenancy is a heritable tenancy and if there were joint tenants, there could be a conflict on the future of the croft which would add complications to an already complicated land tenure. The consultation paper discusses this further.”

                  Another proposal is in relation to Common Grazings, which are areas of land where multiple crofters have a right to graze the land known as a share. Common Grazings account for approximately 550,000 hectares of land in the country.

                  Hamish continues: “Common Grazings are being used less and less with livestock numbers on crofts declining. The government proposes to remove barriers that will allow crofters to use common grazing land for other purposes such as woodland creation, biodiversity enhancement and peatland restoration. This could bring more income to the related crofting community and built stronger relationships. To do this, the roles of Grazing Committees need to be more simple and clear and Crofters need to be encouraged to actively use their shares.”

                  To read the full Crofting Consultation Report which covers all aspects of the proposals, please click here. For all information regarding Crofting, please visit the Crofting Commission here.

                  If you wish to discuss crofting with one of our land agents, please contact Bell Ingram here.

                  Our people

                  Hamish Hope

                  Hamish Hope

                  Senior Surveyor, MRICS
                  Land Management
                  Tel: 01463 717 799

                  About: Hamish is an experienced RICS Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer, working across the Highlands with a focus on rural estate management from traditional sporting estates to diversifications. He is a graduate of Edinburgh Napier University with MSc Real Estate Management and Investment. Interests: Estate Management, Sales & Lettings, Valuations, Domestic Energy Assessments.

                  Get in touch

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