KEYS TO KNOW
Sometimes the most efficient way to an ideal property is not to build your own dream home, but to buy from someone who has. Not only can you move into a completed property, with none of the hassles of a project, but being the second owner of a self-built home has its own distinct advantages.
First is the fact that unless the former owner was building for profit, there are likely to be many added extras which give the completed property a much higher specification than most available from a commercial developer.
People building for themselves tend to be more indulgent with top-end fixtures and fittings rather than keeping an eye on profits.
In terms of price, properties do perform like cars, so there will be a premium paid for a brand new place, where a nearly-new one can offer a lot more value for money.
A contemporary home in a rural area, unlike its more traditional neighbours without the benefits of modern insulation and glazing, will be likely to have been designed to make the best of the views and the orientation.
If the property is a relatively recent build, it is also likely to have modern design features far in excess of that of an older home.
Add an already landscaped and maturing garden and a modern contemporary home becomes the ultimate luxury.
Killearnan Lodge is a luxurious coastal retreat which has truly breathtaking views over the Beauly Firth.
The design of the house fits into the topography and landscape and it is large and flexible enough to suit a variety of buyers.
The specification includes underfloor heating, merbau timber flooring, travertine flagstones, a wood burning stove and sliding doors which retreat into the wall so that the whole centre depth of the house can be opened up.
The kitchen has a comprehensive range of integrated Neff appliances, centre island, granite worktops, oil fired Aga and a breakfast bar.
A summer house sits below the property which provides additional self-contained guest accommodation. It is beautifully positioned close to the water’s edge and provides stunning views.
Ach An Darach lies in a spectacular setting in the crofting township of Teavarran near Inverness. The home was completed in 2014 with a design that takes advantage of the stunning views over its own land to Strathglass, Strath Cannich and Ben Wyvis.
It is highly energy efficient with income generating solar panels, excellent levels of insulation, wood burning stoves and an air source heat pump for the hot water.
Vineleaf Cottage is an exceptionally comfortable family home built nearly 13 years ago near the Borders town of Lauder.
Its design has an open plan kitchen/ dining/family area at its heart which is connected by the conservatory that wraps around two sides of the house.
For homeworkers it features an exceptional study, with its own balcony and steps down to the garden.
Adjacent to the house is a large studio and a workshop which could be adapted to a number of uses. Where is it: Killearnan Lodge, Redcastle, Muir of Ord, Ross-shire. What is it: A New England style contemporary home in a coastal location with four bedrooms, three
It is overlooks the sheltered harbour and beach and is within easy commuting distance of Aberdeen, Bridge of Don and Ellon.
The village has a primary school, library and several shops, and there is a children’s play area overlooking the harbour.
Although in need of a degree of upgrading the property would be a good opportunity for those looking for a project which they public rooms and a self-contained guest summer house. There are over five acres of grounds with extensive equestrian facilities and outbuildings. The landscaped gardens include terraces and lawns. Good points: The views over the Beauly Firth are astounding, and the design of the house takes full advantage of them with sun can modernise to their own specification. It would make for an affordable family home, a seaside getaway or a holiday let.
The entrance hall has a staircase leading to the upper floor. The lounge has a front aspect with lovely views over the harbour, wooden flooring and a traditional fireplace with an open chimney.
The dining room also has a front aspect and access to a good-sized terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors which open the centre of the house up. Bad points: With a perfect little annexe for guests you would be inundated with new friends who might be loathe to leave. Price: Offers over £1 million. Contact: Strutt & Parker on 01463 719171. kitchen. The bathroom has an electric shower over the bath, so the cottage could easily be lived in while the work was carried out.
Upstairs there’s a hall with Velux window and two good-sized double bedrooms, both with windows to the front.