KEYS TO KNOW
Aberdeenshire has found favour with those in search of a quality lifestyle, discovers Kirsty Mcluckie
Aberdeen and its environs have had a bumpy ride in terms of the property market in the last few years. With the economy of the area so closely linked to oil prices, average values have decreased, but indications are that the market is improving.
Estate agent Galbraith has reported a healthy level of residential sales in Aberdeenshire during the second quarter of 2017.
And it seems that the market outside Aberdeen city has been driven primarily by demand for farms and homes with views or land.
Hannah Christiansen, who leads the residential sales team for Galbraith in Aberdeen, says: “Farms of all sizes have been in demand this quarter and have sold well, together with strong demand for high-quality homes with paddocks or a small parcel of land, typically between two and five acres.
“Buyers are looking for properties with great views, offering seclusion and a feeling of being able to ‘get away from it all’.”
Christiansen reports that the majority of sales are to buyers moving into the area.
She says: “Around 80 per cent of buyers this quarter came from outwith the local area – this is due to the desire for a more relaxed lifestyle and the continued appeal of the stunning Aberdeenshire countryside.”
Prices for larger country properties with land compare well to other parts of rural Scotland and Aberdeenshire is seen as an area which offers more value for money in a substantial country house, whether it is a historic or contemporary home.
Privacy, amenity land and space all add up to a lifestyle purchase.
Auld Cummerton is in the picturesque village of Bellabeg in Strathdon, 44 miles west of Aberdeen and inside the Cairngorms National Park.
It is a traditional detached home with a southerly aspect and open views across Donside.
The private driveway meanders through mature woodland and the beautiful, colourful garden to the front is full of wildlife and birds.
The original Auld Cummerton farmhouse dates back to 1760, but the property now represents a fine mix between old and new after a redevelopment and extension including the two-storey tower. The newer part was designed to work with the original house, reusing the stone to create additional family accommodation.
The house has been run very successfully by the current owners as a five-star bed and breakfast.
Leslie Castle in Insch is a 16th century B-listed restored castle with five storeys, metre-thick granite walls and the option of a barony title, the Baron of Leslie.
Its layout has also allowed it to be run as a B&B, with private owner’s quarters.
It has seven bedrooms, four reception rooms including a great hall and two acres of private grounds.
Wester Ord is a substantial contemporary home within easy commuting distance of Aberdeen at Westhill, about six miles from the city’s west end.
With five bedrooms and four reception rooms it comes with an acre of beautiful gardens.
A highlight is the expansive living-dining kitchen with windows on four sides. Where is it: Auld Cummerton, Bellabeg, Strathdon, Aberdeenshire. What is it: A traditional detached house set in two and a half acres of grounds with views across the Don Valley. Five bedrooms, an impressive dining kitchen and beautiful formal public rooms plus an adjoining turret annexe. Grounds include an enclosed garden, a chalet and woodland. Good points: Exceptional house at an enticing price. Good potential for a holiday business – letting the annexe or B&B – in the heart of the Cairngorms. Bad points: At 44 miles distance, it wouldn’t be a quick commute for Aberdeen city workers. Price: Offers over £440,000. Contact: Galbraith on 01224 860710.