The Herald - The Herald Magazine
THE VOICE OF PROPERTY
HOUSES are not the only thing in hot demand; the growing interest in wellbeing and healthier lifestyles has led to a new market for small parcels of land without planning permission, according to property consultancy Galbraith.
Plots spanning just a few acres in size are being snapped up by families and individuals for myriad purposes – and money seems to be no object. The firm reports the largest premium paid in the past 12 months was almost three times the asking price, with plots attracting offers on the first day of marketing.
Richard Stewart, land agent with Galbraith, comments: “Small parcels of amenity land are attracting a huge amount of interest and there have been some very good sales over the past 18 months. When we launched the first plot of this type at the beginning of the pandemic, we were not sure there would be much interest, but in fact, we had a huge number of enquiries. Since then, interest has remained at the same elevated level.
“The lockdowns seem to have heightened buyers’ interest in areas of recreational land of between one and ten acres, for a variety of uses. Asking prices are generally in the region of £30,000 to £50,000, which is in reach for people if they have an inheritance or savings. More people now want to fulfil a longheld dream to own a rural escape.”
Galbraith reports buyers are typically based in a town. Some intend to grow their own fruit and vegetables, others keep bees or create a small woodland for the next generation to enjoy, while many simply wish to spend time in the outdoors in a private area that they can tailor to their needs.
Plots are most desirable if they are accessible, as buyers are looking to be within an hour’s drive of their home.
Richard Stewart says: “We sold one plot to a writer who wanted to put up a small cabin as a quiet place to work. Another owner was intending to set up a dog agility course, while families say they want somewhere to go with the kids – reducing their usual screen time.”
Galbraith advises checking that sporting, mineral and timber rights to the land are included and to ensure land boundaries are property recorded. Also worth noting, camping on land you own is permitted for up to 28 days per year in Scotland without the need to apply to the local authority.