From Field to Future: My Journey with Forfar & District Young Farmers

My name is Beth Steele, and I am a Graduate Rural Surveyor based in Bell Ingram’s Forfar office. I support a wide range of professional services, including property valuations, land management, sales and lettings, as well as work within the renewables and utilities sectors. I am currently working towards my Assessment of Professional Competence (APC), with the intention of sitting the exam in autumn 2026.

Outside of work, I am an active member of the Forfar and District Junior Agricultural Club (JAC), where I currently serve as Club Secretary. I was initially encouraged to join by friends who had been involved previously, and I quickly recognised it as a brilliant opportunity to meet like-minded people, develop new skills, and give something back to the local community.

As Secretary, I am responsible for helping the club run smoothly through a variety of administrative tasks. I organise meetings, coordinate communication between members, and assist with planning our busy events calendar. I also maintain club records and support the committee’s decision-making processes. Since stepping into the role earlier this year, I have found it to be a rewarding challenge. I am following in the footsteps of some exceptional past secretaries, and although it can be hard work, it is a privilege to be part of such a vibrant and passionate organisation.

Our club enjoyed an outstanding year in 2023, filled with sporting victories, agricultural successes, community involvement, and plenty of fun along the way. In 2024, members of all ages have continued to contribute through charity fundraising and volunteering efforts. A personal highlight for me was the annual Christmas Eve Tractor Run, where over 200 tractors lined the streets of Forfar, raising an incredible £10,500 for our chosen charities – a truly memorable achievement.

The range of competitions and events offered by the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) is unmatched by any other youth organisation. Our club has been fortunate to enjoy success across many of them. Last year, Forfar JAC was named Angus–Tayside Club of the Year, and our former secretary, Glen Barclay, placed second in the National Member of the Year competition. We also took home top honours at the District Field Day, Agri-Skills Competition, and District Cabaret Competition, where our performance secured first place. These opportunities have allowed me to develop new skills, step outside my comfort zone, and contribute to the club’s continued success.

Looking ahead, I am excited to build on these achievements. I am particularly focused on strengthening our community engagement, advancing agricultural initiatives, and helping members grow and develop, ensuring they have access to the same opportunities that I have been fortunate to enjoy during my time with SAYFC.

Being part of Forfar JAC, and the wider Young Farmers movement, has been an invaluable experience. It has enabled me to connect with inspiring individuals, gain confidence, and stay closely involved with rural life. This experience ties directly into my work at Bell Ingram, where I collaborate closely with rural landowners and farmers. Both my career and my involvement in Young Farmers share a common goal of supporting agricultural communities and finding practical solutions to the challenges they face.

On behalf of Forfar JAC, I would like to sincerely thank the local community for their continued support, as well as the businesses, including Bell Ingram, whose generous sponsorship makes so much of what we do possible.

Planning Your Farm Sale: Why Time is Your Best Ally

As we approach the end of the busy 2024 farm sales season, it’s time to look ahead to 2025 and start planning for the year to come. If you’re considering bringing your farm to market, the sooner you begin preparing, the better. Allowing ample time for the process can be the difference between a smooth, successful sale and a rushed, stressful experience.

Timing is Everything: The Spring/Summer Advantage

Spring and summer are widely considered the optimum times to sell a farm. The warmer weather and green grass and crop in the ground makes properties more appealing, and potential buyers are generally more active during these months. However, to capitalise on this busy period, it’s crucial to start preparing well in advance. By beginning your preparations now, you can ensure your farm is ready to hit the market when buyer interest is at its peak.

The Benefits of Early Preparation

There are numerous factors to consider before bringing a farm to market, each requiring careful thought and planning. Here’s why allowing sufficient time can greatly benefit your sale:

Tax Planning: Selling a farm often involves significant financial considerations, and tax planning is a critical aspect. Consulting with your Accountant early on will give you the time to explore your options and make informed decisions that could save you a substantial amount of money.

Title Preparation: Producing titles can be a time-consuming process. Engaging with lawyers well in advance will ensure that all legal documentation is in order, reducing the risk of delays when you’re ready to sell.

Marketing Strategy: A quality marketing campaign doesn’t happen overnight. Time allows for strategic planning, including how best to package your property, whether it be selling the land in lots or upgrading residential properties to maximize their appeal. We’ve seen firsthand in 2024 how a well-planned marketing strategy can lead to successful outcomes for our clients.

Strategic Considerations for Farm Sales

When preparing your farm for sale, several key decisions need to be made:

Residential Property Upgrades: If your farm includes residential properties, consider whether upgrades or renovations could increase their value. Enhancing these properties can make your overall offering more attractive to potential buyers.

Packaging the Land: Deciding how to package and present your land is crucial. Should you sell the property as a whole, or lot the land? This decision can impact the overall sale and may require time to consider the best approach. Separating houses and cottages from the working farm can be challenging, but with careful planning, it can be done in a way that maximises value.

Understanding Buyer Priorities: While residential properties can be a significant selling point, it’s often the land and outbuildings that drive buyer interest. Understanding what buyers are looking for in your area will help you tailor your offering to meet market demand.

Start Planning Now for a Successful 2025 Sale

The earlier you start planning your farm sale, the better positioned you’ll be to achieve a successful outcome. Whether it’s engaging with Accountants and Lawyers, strategising your marketing campaign, or making decisions about property upgrades, time is your best ally. By taking the necessary steps now, you’ll be ready to enter the market at the optimal time and attract the right buyers.

For more information about Bell Ingram’s Farm Sales service, contact our Head of Farm Sales, Malcolm Taylor, on 01307 462516 or email malcolm.taylor@bellingram.co.uk.

From Clarkson’s Farm to your fields: Understanding the vital role of Land Agents

Thanks to his hit Amazon show Clarkson’s Farm, Jeremy Clarkson has given viewers a unique insight into the daily operations of his 1000-acre (400 ha) farm near Chipping Norton in the Cotswolds.

Fans of the programme will also recognise Jeremy’s Land Agent and Advisor, Charlie Ireland, affectionately nicknamed “Cheerful Charlie” due to Clarkson’s playful jabs at his often serious demeanour.

Charlie Ireland offers Clarkson invaluable advice on when to plant and harvest crops and how to budget for the farming year. He is a wellspring of knowledge and often the bearer of bad news when things go awry.

Rob Whitson, Bell Ingram’s Head of Rural Land Management, says: “As a firm of land managers operating for 125 years, we understand the challenges farmers and landowners face. We’re pleased that Clarkson’s Farm has brought the role of Land Agents into the public eye. This show has helped highlight the importance of our profession and advocate for our farming clients to receive the recognition they deserve.

“The programme has shone a spotlight on our profession, and thanks to Charlie Ireland, people have a better understanding of what a Land Agent actually does. Hopefully, this insight will also encourage more people to consider careers in rural land management.”

If you are thinking of employing a Land Agent or want to learn more about a potential career, here’s everything you need to know about it …

1. What is a Land Agent?

A Land Agent, also known as a Land Manager, is a professional responsible for the management, valuation, and development of rural land and estates. They offer expertise in a variety of areas including agriculture, forestry, land conservation, property management, and land transactions.

2. What are the primary responsibilities of a Land Agent?

The main responsibilities include:

• Estate Management: Overseeing the day-to-day operations of rural estates, including agricultural activities, forestry, and game management.

• Property Management: Managing buildings and infrastructure on the estate, ensuring they are maintained and let out appropriately.

• Land Transactions: Assisting with the buying, selling, and leasing of land and property.

• Valuations: Conducting valuations for sales, purchases, and financial purposes.

• Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all activities comply with relevant laws and regulations, including environmental and planning laws.

• Advice and Consultancy: Providing strategic advice on land use, conservation, and diversification opportunities.

3. What qualifications are required to become a Land Agent?

Typically, a Land Agent will have:

• A degree in a relevant field such as rural land management, agriculture, forestry, or environmental science.

• Professional qualifications from bodies such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), The Central Association for Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) or the Scottish Agricultural Arbiters and Valuers Association (SAAVA).

• Practical experience through internships or junior positions within land management firms or estates.

4. How do Land Agents assist with agricultural management?

Land Agents provide support in:

• Crop and livestock management.

• Implementing sustainable farming practices.

• Advising on government grants and subsidies.

• Ensuring compliance with agricultural regulations.

5. What role do Land Agents play in forestry management?

In forestry management, Land Agents:

• Develop and implement forest management plans.

• Oversee planting, thinning, and harvesting operations.

• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

• Advise on grants and incentives for woodland creation and management.

6. Can Land Agents help with land conservation?

Yes, Land Agents play a crucial role in:

• Identifying and protecting areas of environmental significance.

• Implementing conservation strategies.

• Managing habitats and biodiversity.

• Applying for conservation grants and funding.

7. How do Land Agents contribute to property management?

They manage residential, commercial, and agricultural buildings by:

• Letting and leasing properties.

• Overseeing maintenance and repairs.

• Managing tenant relations.

• Conducting property valuations and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

8. What is involved in the valuation work of a Land Agent?

Valuation work includes:

• Assessing the value of land, property, and natural resources.

• Preparing valuation reports for sales, purchases, or financial purposes.

• Conducting market analysis and forecasting trends.

9. In what ways do Land Agents interact with legal and regulatory frameworks?

Land Agents ensure compliance with:

• Environmental and wildlife protection laws.

• Planning and development regulations.

• Health and safety standards.

• Agricultural and forestry policies.

10. How can a Land Agent help with land development?

They assist in:

• Planning and executing development projects.

• Navigating planning permission processes.

• Advising on land use and planning laws.

• Conducting feasibility studies and impact assessments.

11. What strategic advice do Land Agents offer?

Land Agents provide guidance on:

• Diversification of estate activities (e.g., tourism, renewable energy).

• Long-term estate planning and sustainability.

• Financial management and investment strategies.

• Enhancing the economic viability of rural businesses.

12. Why might an estate owner in Scotland hire a Land Agent?

An estate owner might hire a Land Agent to:

• Optimise the management and profitability of their estate.

• Ensure compliance with complex regulatory frameworks.

• Access expert advice on land use, conservation, and development.

• Delegate the management of everyday operations to a professional.

Get in touch

Bell Ingram’s team of RICS Chartered Surveyors and Land Agents offers comprehensive management services to private and corporate clients, overseeing hundreds of thousands of hectares across the UK, from prime arable land to high hills. Our professionals also serve utilities, telecoms, mining, renewables, and local authorities.

You are very welcome to visit our offices and discuss your requirements with a Bell Ingram expert. For opening times and availability, please check our website. It’s best to call or email in advance to ensure someone is available to assist you.

Rob Whitson, our specialist in Rural Land Management, welcomes confidential discussions about your needs. For enquiries, please contact Rob Whitson at 01463 717799.