The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Planning Your Farm Sale: Why Time is Your Best Ally

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.

Our people

Malcolm Taylor

Malcolm Taylor

Senior Partner, FRICS ACIArb
Rural Land Management
Tel: 01307 462 516

About: Malcolm is Bell Ingram's Senior Partner and heads up the company's Forfar office, where he specialises in farm and estate management, including the provision of agricultural rental advice and acting as an expert witness. He is the immediate past chairman of the RICS in Scotland and remains actively involved with the Institution. Malcolm is also head of Lettings within Bell Ingram. Interests: AMC Agent, Corporate Estate Management, Rural Land Management, SRDP Applications, FRICS Registered Valuer.

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

    The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

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

    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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

    Our people

    Rob Whitson

    Rob Whitson

    Partner, MRICS
    Rural Land Management
    Tel: 01463 717 799

    About: Rob is Bell Ingram’s partner in charge of the Beauly office. He specialises in the management of rural properties for a range of private clients across the Highlands. This has included a number of significant and high profile sporting estates. For Land Management clients, Rob has worked on the negotiation of purchase/sale, servitude rights and renewable energy developments. He provides specialist management advice over a wide range of sporting estates particularly in relation to red deer stalking and salmon fisheries. Rob has enjoyed a long involvement with a number of district salmon fishery boards across the Highlands, and is a trustee of the Cromarty Firth Fishery Trust. He is Chair of the Highland Region for Scottish Land & Estates and also leads on valuations of commercial and rural property throughout Scotland in accordance with the RICS appraisal and valuation standards. Interests: Private Estate Management, Rural Land Management, Sporting Management, Valuations.

    Get in touch

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

      The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

      Balancing the challenges and joys of land ownership

      Balancing the challenges and joys of land ownership

      By Rob Whitson, Head of Rural Land Management

      If you imagine owning a Highland estate is all about strolling through blooming heather with a pack of black labradors, you’re in for a reality check!

      Land management in Scotland is under intense scrutiny like never before, with the Scottish Government’s framework emphasising community-focused principles for land ownership and use. Modern owners must manage their land to provide lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits to the community. While many landowners enjoy the privilege of living in this unique environment, they also face a complex and growing array of administrative and legislative demands.

      The pandemic added to these challenges, bringing a surge of visitors escaping towns and cities to walk, cycle, ride, paddle, and camp. While most visitors are responsible, landowners have seen an increase in dog mess, litter, gates left open, and fly-tipping. It’s crucial to communicate that the countryside is also a home and workplace for people and wildlife, and visitors must act responsibly to avoid causing damage or inconvenience.

      Despite these challenges, land ownership can still be more pleasure than pain. Bell Ingram’s land managers assist a wide range of clients, from sporting and mixed estates to farmers and crofters, in dealing with ever-changing rules and regulations. Whether it’s heather management, predator control, or improving land amenities, we support our clients in staying ahead of legislative changes.

      Time is a finite resource, and while you can’t add more hours to the day, you can engage an agent to help manage the challenges of land ownership. This partnership allows you to enjoy your land without being bogged down by its demands. Clear communication and trust built through shared experiences are key to a fruitful relationship between landowner and agent.

      Bell Ingram oversees hundreds of thousands of acres for a diverse portfolio of clients, ensuring they maximise their assets while complying with ever-evolving rural management requirements.

      Our people

      Rob Whitson

      Rob Whitson

      Partner, MRICS
      Rural Land Management
      Tel: 01463 717 799

      About: Rob is Bell Ingram’s partner in charge of the Beauly office. He specialises in the management of rural properties for a range of private clients across the Highlands. This has included a number of significant and high profile sporting estates. For Land Management clients, Rob has worked on the negotiation of purchase/sale, servitude rights and renewable energy developments. He provides specialist management advice over a wide range of sporting estates particularly in relation to red deer stalking and salmon fisheries. Rob has enjoyed a long involvement with a number of district salmon fishery boards across the Highlands, and is a trustee of the Cromarty Firth Fishery Trust. He is Chair of the Highland Region for Scottish Land & Estates and also leads on valuations of commercial and rural property throughout Scotland in accordance with the RICS appraisal and valuation standards. Interests: Private Estate Management, Rural Land Management, Sporting Management, Valuations.

      Get in touch

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

        Press Release Archive News

        Bell Ingram moves to new office in Kendal serving Cumbria and North Lancashire

        Bell Ingram moves to new office in Kendal serving Cumbria and North Lancashire

        Bell Ingram is delighted to announce the official opening of our new office at Martindale House, Murley Moss Business Park, Oxenholme Road, Kendal, Cumbria.

        This strategic move marks an important milestone in Bell Ingram’s commitment to providing exceptional service and expertise to clients across Cumbria and North Lancashire.

        The Kendal office will be staffed by a dedicated team of professionals who bring a wealth of experience and local knowledge to the region.

        Andrew Thompson, Senior Associate, is a RICS Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer. He has extensive experience working on a variety of utility and land management projects throughout Cumbria and North Lancashire. Andrew’s expertise and dedication ensure that clients receive the highest level of service and support.

        Joe Greene, Associate, is a RICS Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer specialising in Utilities and Rural Land Management. Since joining Bell Ingram in 2019, Joe has achieved an MSc in Real Estate, passed his RICS professional examinations and developed a strong client base within the utilities and renewables sectors.

        Cameron Dargue, Graduate Land Agent, is a recent addition to the Bell Ingram team. From a farming background, Cameron works across Cumbria, with a focus on supporting clients in the utilities and renewables sectors. He joined Bell Ingram in Summer 2023 and holds a BA (Hons) in Geography from Manchester Metropolitan University.

        Andrew Thompson said: “I’m looking forward to working from this purpose-built office space in Kendal as the location is shared with a number of complimentary service providers and has many opportunities to network. It’s the perfect location for us to continue providing excellent service to our clients across the region. The new office will allow us to work more efficiently and collaboratively, which is a huge plus for our team and our clients.”

        Neal Salomon, Head of Utilities at Bell Ingram, continued: “We are delighted to expand our presence in Kendal and enhance our services in this vibrant region. With the opening of our new office, we aim to provide unparalleled expertise and support to our clients, helping them navigate the complexities of land management with confidence.”

        The new Kendal office reinforces Bell Ingram’s dedication to serving the rural communities of Cumbria and North Lancashire. The firm’s comprehensive range of services includes estate management, valuation, utilities and renewables consultancy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

        For more information about Bell Ingram and the services offered at the Kendal office, please contact the team on 01539 896 101.

        Our people

        Andrew Thompson

        Andrew Thompson

        Senior Associate
        Utilities & Renewables Rural Land Management
        Tel: 01539 896 101

        About: Andrew is a qualified Rural Chartered Surveyor and RICS Registered Valuer. He has extensive experience working on a variety of utility and land management projects throughout Cumbria and North Lancashire. Andrew's expertise and dedication ensure that clients receive the highest level of service and support. Interests: Utilities, Private Estate Management, Rural Land Management, MRICS Registered Valuer

        Get in touch

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

          Our people

          Joe Greene

          Joe Greene

          Associate, MRICS
          Utilities & Renewables Rural Land Management
          Tel: 01539 896 101

          About: Joe is a qualified RICS Chartered Surveyor specialising in Rural Land Management. Since joining Bell Ingram in 2019, Joe has developed a strong client base within the utilities and renewables sectors. He recently achieved an MSc in Real Estate and passed his RICS professional examinations in 2023. Local to Cumbria, he enjoys working within the Lake District, even in the winter! Interests: Rural Land Management, GIS, Pipelines and Utilities

          Get in touch

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

            Our people

            Cameron Dargue

            Cameron Dargue

            Graduate Rural Surveyor
            Utilities & Renewables Rural Land Management
            Tel: 01539 896101

            About: Cameron is a recent addition to the Bell Ingram team. Cameron works across Cumbria, with a focus on supporting clients in the utilities and renewables sectors. He joined Bell Ingram in Summer 2023 and holds a BA (Hons) in Geography from Manchester Metropolitan University. Interests: Utilities and Renewables  

            Get in touch

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

              Press Release Archive News, Rural Land Management Page

              Scottish Government opens consultation on Crofting Reform

              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

                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

                  The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

                  High Demand and Premium Prices Define the Current Farm Sales Market

                  High Demand and Premium Prices Define the Current Farm Sales Market

                  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.

                  Our Farm Sales specialists in Scotland are experiencing high demand for our services this season for a variety of reasons including unpredictability in the industry and many farmers looking to their primary asset for retirement funding.

                  Browse some of our farm properties on the market here:

                  North Barns & Coltrannie Farms, Bankfoot, Perthshire

                  Two productive farming units in an easily accessible position just north of Perth, convenient for the A9. Predominantly Grade 3(1) with areas of Grade 2, with modern agricultural sheds and a traditionally constructed four-bedroom farmhouse. As a whole or in 3 lots.

                  Offers over £2,575,000.

                  Click here to see more.

                  North Mains of Invereighty, Forfar, Angus

                  North Mains of Invereighty is excellent, well equipped arable unit with first class principal house in a renowned farming area of Angus. The land extends to approximately 54.25 hectares (134 acres).

                  Offers over £2,000,000.

                  Click here to see more.

                  Langlands Farm, Forfar, Angus

                  Highly productive arable farm located in central Angus. Extending to about 39.30 hectares (97.11 acres) and includes a traditional three bedroom farmhouse and range of farms buildings. The land is classified principally class 3:1.

                  Offers over £1,300,000.

                  Click here to see more.

                  South Bank Farm, Isle of Arran

                  Excellent opportunity to acquire a most attractive farm with traditional farmhouse on the Isle of Arran. Uninterrupted sea views towards Ailsa Craig and the Ayrshire Coast. Approximately 121.55 hectares (300.36 acres). For sale as a whole or in three lots.

                  Offers over £1,100,000.

                  Click here to see more.

                  Lands at West Mains of Whitewell, Oathlaw, Angus

                  An attractive block of well-located arable land extending to approximately 43.89 hectares (108.45 acres). A well-proportioned and accessible range of arable fields as well as amenity woodland and river frontage. The land has been run on an arable rotation which includes potatoes, peas, cereals and grass.

                  Offers over £810,000.

                  Click here to see more.

                  West Heath Farm, Holm, Orkney

                  Arable and grazing land with an agricultural building with potential for “one for one” development site, subject to planning approval. About 48.54 hectares (119.94 acres) of predominantly Grade 4(1) and 4(2).

                  Offers over £500,000.

                  Click here to see more.

                  Our people

                  Malcolm Taylor

                  Malcolm Taylor

                  Senior Partner, FRICS ACIArb
                  Rural Land Management
                  Tel: 01307 462 516

                  About: Malcolm is Bell Ingram's Senior Partner and heads up the company's Forfar office, where he specialises in farm and estate management, including the provision of agricultural rental advice and acting as an expert witness. He is the immediate past chairman of the RICS in Scotland and remains actively involved with the Institution. Malcolm is also head of Lettings within Bell Ingram. Interests: AMC Agent, Corporate Estate Management, Rural Land Management, SRDP Applications, FRICS Registered Valuer.

                  Get in touch

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

                    Press Release Archive News

                    Congratulations to Our New Senior Land Agents

                    Congratulations to our new Senior Land Agents

                    We are pleased to announce the well-deserved promotions of Anastasia Young, Hamish Hope, and Henry Jamieson to the position of Senior Land Agent. Their dedication, expertise, and hard work have significantly contributed to our company’s success, and we are confident they will excel in their new roles.

                    Ana Young joined Bell Ingram in Spring 2023 and has quickly become an integral part of the Beauly team. As a RICS Chartered Surveyor, she brings her extensive knowledge and passion for rural estate management to our Highlands operations. She specialises in managing traditional sporting estates and exploring diversification opportunities. Ana holds a BA (Hons) in Rural Business Management from SRUC, and her fresh perspectives and innovative approaches have already made a positive impact on our projects.

                    Hamish Hope is a professional with a wealth of experience as a RICS Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer. Based in Beauly, Hamish has a strong focus on rural estate management throughout the Highlands, handling everything from traditional sporting estates to diversified land uses. He is a graduate of Edinburgh Napier University, where he earned his MSc in Real Estate Management and Investment. Hamish’s comprehensive understanding of the local landscape and his commitment to excellence have been invaluable to our team.

                    Henry Jamieson has been a cornerstone of our Ayr office, working across the utilities sector. His extensive experience as a Land Agent is complemented by his role in business development, helping to expand our reach and capabilities. Henry’s career began at his family firm, John Marshall & Sons, where he served as Contracts Manager for 18 years. His practical experience and strategic insight have greatly benefitted our clients and projects.

                    Rob Whitson, Head of Land Management, said: “I am delighted to congratulate Ana and Hamish on their well-earned promotions. Their dedication and innovative approaches to rural estate management have been instrumental in our success. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and contributions in their new roles as Senior Land Agents.”

                    Geoff Brown, Head of Utilities (Scotland) added: “Henry’s promotion to Senior Land Agent is a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication. His contributions to our utilities projects have been outstanding, and I am confident he will continue to drive success and innovation in his promoted post.”

                    Our people

                    Henry Jamieson

                    Henry Jamieson

                    Senior Land Agent
                    Utilities & Renewables
                    Tel: 01292 886 544

                    About: Henry is an experienced Land Agent, working across a wide spectrum of clients within the utilities and forestry sectors. His role also encompasses business development for our Ayr office. Henry previously worked for family firm John Marshall & Sons where he was Contracts Manager for 18 years. Interests: Utilities & Renewables, Forestry, Business Development.

                    Get in touch

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

                      Our people

                      Anastasia Young

                      Anastasia Young

                      Senior Surveyor, MRICS
                      Land Management
                      Tel: 01463 717 799

                      About: Anastasia is a RICS Chartered Surveyor, working across the Highlands with a focus on rural estate management from traditional sporting estates to diversifications. She joined Bell Ingram in Spring 2023 and is a graduate of SRUC with a BA (Hons) in Rural Business Management. Interests: Rural land and property management

                      Get in touch

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

                        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

                          Press Release Archive News

                          Bell Ingram announces latest round of Senior Associate and Associate promotions

                          Bell Ingram announces latest round of Senior Associate and Associate promotions

                          Bell Ingram LLP, one of the UK’s leading independent land and property experts, is delighted to announce the promotion of several key members of staff. Effective from 1st June 2024, the following professionals have been elevated in recognition of their exceptional contributions and dedication to the firm.

                          Promoted to Senior Associate:

                          Borzo Taheri MRICS (Northwich): A RICS chartered surveyor, Borzo has been instrumental in managing rural land for clients in the utilities and renewables sector. Since joining Bell Ingram in 2017, he has leveraged his MSc in Rural Estate and Land Management from Harper Adams University to drive success across Northern England.

                          Gregor Dalziell (Ayr): With a BSc (Hons) in Sustainable Environmental Management, Gregor has significantly impacted the utilities sector. He brought his expertise from the Registers of Scotland to Bell Ingram in 2019.

                          Johan McKenzie (Perth): As head of the client accounting department, Johan manages the financial affairs of diverse private and commercial clients. Her qualification as an accountant and her extensive experience ensure meticulous financial management.

                          Waldo Serfontein (Morpeth): Waldo’s background in farming, geology, and the Armed Forces enriches his role in land agency services. Since joining in 2022, he has specialised in land acquisition, access rights, and compensation within the utilities sector.

                          Martin Watson (Ayr): Currently managing a major refurbishment project for a utility client, Martin’s 15+ years of experience in the electricity and water industries have been invaluable to Bell Ingram since his secondment.

                          Promoted to Associate:

                          Bill Crank MRICS (Northwich): Bill’s extensive work in estate and property management, focusing on utilities and agriculture, underscores his value to the Northern England region.

                          Dermot Meehan (Northwich): Dermot manages complex utility projects, ensuring smooth operations and compliance with various statutory consents.

                          Douglas Ogilvie (Perth): With decades of experience in strategic farm management consultancy, Douglas joined Bell Ingram in 2023 and has made substantial contributions to farming consultancy across Scotland.

                          Joe Greene MRICS (Kendal): A local to Cumbria and qualified chartered surveyor, Joe has excelled in rural land management for utilities and renewables clients since 2019.

                          John Kennedy MRICS (Forfar): Specialising in rural estate and farm management, John’s expertise is rooted in his academic background and professional experience since joining in 2021.

                          Lauren Livingston (Forfar): An accomplished Architectural Technologist, Lauren has been a vital part of Bell Ingram Design since 2017, providing exceptional support on projects nationwide.

                          Mark Mitchell, Managing Partner at Bell Ingram LLP, stated: “These promotions reflect our commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within our firm. Each individual has demonstrated outstanding professional expertise and dedication to their clients. We are excited to see how they will continue to drive Bell Ingram’s success in the future.”

                          Our people

                          Mark Mitchell

                          Mark Mitchell

                          Managing Partner, FRICS
                          Rural Land Management
                          Tel: 01738 646 584

                          About: Mark is responsible for the strategic direction and overall performance of the firm. He specialises in all aspects of Estate and Facilities Management for private, corporate and public sector clients. He is experienced in the acquisition, disposal and management of estates and farms, rental negotiation and management of residential property. Interests: Estate Agency, Private Estate Management, Rural Land Management, FRICS Registered Valuer.

                          Get in touch

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

                            Rural Land Management Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

                            Scottish Government introduces new land reform legislation

                            Scottish Government introduces new land reform legislation with major implications for landowners

                            On 13th March 2024, the Scottish Government introduced the Land Reform (Scotland) Bill. The aim of this Bill is to reform the law around large landholdings and certain types of leases of land. The controversial Bill includes measures for landholding over 1,000 hectares including potentially prohibiting the sale of the land until Ministers have been consulted and the impact on the local community assessed.

                            Landholdings of over 1,000 hectares account for over 50% of Scotland’s land so this Bill could potentially have drastic effects on how land is managed. If a sale of a landholding over 1,000 hectares is deemed by the ministers to have a negative impact on local communities, the land could be divided into smaller portions. This would allow for communities to purchase smaller land areas and provide opportunities for other parties who would not be able to purchase land otherwise to have the chance of land ownership.

                            To tackle climate change and reach net zero, many landowners throughout the country have started work on peatland restoration projects, woodland creation, riparian woodland and more regenerative and environmentally friendly farming practices. If large landholdings are broken down into smaller parcels, there is a risk that these current cohesive and large scale projects will be slowed due to minister intervention and the requirement for agreements to be made between multiple landowners. This will potentially slow down the progress that is already being made to reach net zero.

                            The Bill also puts legal responsibilities on landowners to demonstrate how their land is being used to address public policy priorities, contributing to nature restoration and reducing the impact climate change. Many landowners are already managing their land in a way to address these issues already. There will be the requirement for landowners to engage with local communities about how they use the land.

                            The Bill also sheds light on a proposed new tenancy model called a “Land Management Tenancy” which the Ministers will publish, this is to support tenancy to manage the land within their tenancies in ways that meet their needs as well as the nation’s. Measures are also included to reform tenant farming, increase sustainability and productivity and to compensate tenants at the end of their agreements for their investment of time and resources.

                            The Bill can be read in full here.

                            The Scottish Government has also published the report on the findings of a consultation held as part of a Strategic Environmental Assessment of agricultural tenancies, small landholdings and land management tenancy proposals. Within this report it is stated that many respondents noted that there needs to be a balance between tenants’ rights and landlords’ long term security. The respondents have also stated that further guidance and consultation is needed regarded a new tenancy model.

                            The report and findings can be read 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

                              Rural Land Management Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

                              Important Update for Landlords: Changes in Scotland’s Private Rented Sector

                              Important Update: Changes in Scotland’s Private Rented Sector

                              Since September 2022, there have been regulations in place to control rent increases and safeguard against evictions for privately let residential properties, established under the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act 2022. However, effective April 1st, 2024, these restrictions, including the 3% rent increase cap, will be lifted.

                              To mitigate the risk of significant rent hikes, pending parliamentary approval, the process for rent adjudication will be temporarily adjusted for one year, starting April 1st, 2024. This adjustment aims to provide a fair approach to resolving rent disputes during this transitional period.

                              Here’s what landlords need to know about rent reviews in April:

                              Private residential tenants can dispute a rent increase, with disputes reviewed by Rent Service Scotland or the First-tier Tribunal.

                              Rent will be determined based on the lowest of three figures: the open market rate, the rent requested by the landlord, and a comparator based on the difference between the market rate and the current rate.

                              Proposed regulations necessitate the use of a rent taper formula if a tenant applies for rent adjudication:

                              *If the rent increase is 6% or less than the market rent, the landlord can increase the rent by the proposed amount.

                              *If the gap between the market rent and the current rent exceeds 6%, the landlord can increase it by 6% plus 0.33% for each percent that the gap exceeds 6%. The total rent increase cannot exceed 12%.

                              Read the Rent Adjudication (Temporary Modifications)(Scotland) Regulations 2024 here..

                              As demand for rented property rises, many privately let properties with existing tenants now have below-market rent due to the 3% cap in place since 2022. This is likely to lead to widespread rent increases across the country, although the full impact on the market remains to be seen.

                              Before these restrictions are lifted, further changes are set to take effect on March 1st, 2024, with new measures being added to the Repairing Standard, which applies to all privately let residential properties and Short Term Lets. These include:

                              *Safe Kitchens

                              *Fixed Heating System

                              *Safe Access to Common Parts

                              *Consent to Work on Common Parts

                              *Safe and Secure Common Doors

                              *Residual Current Devices

                              *Properties must be free of lead pipes, or a water quality test must be carried out.

                              *Other fuels, such as oil installations, must meet the same repair standards as gas and electricity installations.

                              For full information regarding the changes to the Repairing Standard, click here. While many properties will already meet these additional requirements, there is a risk, primarily to older tenancies, that may not meet the new requirements, necessitating additional works.

                              For further discussions on how these changes affect your property, please contact our professional letting agents at Bell Ingram.

                              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

                                Press Release Archive News

                                Changes in Scotland’s Private Rented Sector

                                Changes in Scotland’s Private Rented Sector

                                Since September 2022, there have been regulations in place to control rent increases and safeguard against evictions for privately let residential properties, established under the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act 2022. However, effective April 1st, 2024, these restrictions, including the 3% rent increase cap, will be lifted.

                                To mitigate the risk of significant rent hikes, pending parliamentary approval, the process for rent adjudication will be temporarily adjusted for one year, starting April 1st, 2024. This adjustment aims to provide a fair approach to resolving rent disputes during this transitional period.

                                Here’s what landlords need to know about rent reviews in April:

                                Private residential tenants can dispute a rent increase, with disputes reviewed by Rent Service Scotland or the First-tier Tribunal.

                                Rent will be determined based on the lowest of three figures: the open market rate, the rent requested by the landlord, and a comparator based on the difference between the market rate and the current rate.

                                Proposed regulations necessitate the use of a rent taper formula if a tenant applies for rent adjudication:

                                • If the rent increase is 6% or less than the market rent, the landlord can increase the rent by the proposed amount.

                                • If the gap between the market rent and the current rent exceeds 6%, the landlord can increase it by 6% plus 0.33% for each percent that the gap exceeds 6%. The total rent increase cannot exceed 12%.

                                Read the Rent Adjudication (Temporary Modifications)(Scotland) Regulations 2024 here..

                                As demand for rented property rises, many privately let properties with existing tenants now have below-market rent due to the 3% cap in place since 2022. This is likely to lead to widespread rent increases across the country, although the full impact on the market remains to be seen.

                                Before these restrictions are lifted, further changes are set to take effect on March 1st, 2024, with new measures being added to the Repairing Standard, which applies to all privately let residential properties and Short Term Lets. These include:

                                • Safe Kitchens

                                • Fixed Heating System

                                • Safe Access to Common Parts

                                • Consent to Work on Common Parts

                                • Safe and Secure Common Doors

                                • Residual Current Devices

                                • Properties must be free of lead pipes, or a water quality test must be carried out.

                                • Other fuels, such as oil installations, must meet the same repair standards as gas and electricity installations.

                                For full information regarding the changes to the Repairing Standard, click here. While many properties will already meet these additional requirements, there is a risk, primarily to older tenancies, that may not meet the new requirements, necessitating additional works.

                                For further discussions on how these changes affect your property, please contact our professional letting agents at Bell Ingram.

                                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