The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Learning curve
Two former schools get top marks, writes Susan Welsh
Schooldays are often said to be among the happiest of our lives - even if most children run for the school gate as soon as the bell rings at the end of the day.
But in the case of two former schools now on the market through CKD Galbraith, buyers are expected to race to view the wonderfully converted family homes.
They are both situated in the rural tranquillity of Moray.
RodChristie, a partner in CKD Galbraith, said the firm was expecting keen interest in the houses.
“Schools that have been converted into detached family houses are not properties we see on the market too often, with many former school buildings more suitable for flat conversions.
“To be marketing these simultaneously is unusual and every one provides a great opportunity for buyers to purchase a really charming family home.
“The properties are ideally placed for local amenities and good access to nearby towns and cities, but still manage to offer an idyllic rural lifestyle.
“The care and appreciation that the current owners have shown to each of the properties leaves them in ideal condition for families to move straight in to and we expect viewers to enjoy their trips to these schools – even during the holidays!”
The first property on offer is Old Cranloch School, which has a guide price of £260,000.
It is an impressive conversion of a traditional school and is set in a delightful sheltered position to the south-east of Elgin.
It dates back to the late 1800s and was built as a school. It remained as an educational building until it was sold to a local devel- oper who converted it into a fine family home in 2005.
The accommodation includes two reception rooms, four bedrooms (one en- suite), a substantial garage/outbuilding and well-maintained, enclosed and sheltered gardens.
The second property is The Old Schoolhouse, Tomintoul, which has a guide price of £255,000.
It is a beautifully renovated four-bedroom house with self-contained flat in the heartof theCairngorms National Park.
The accommodation includes a sitting room, dining kitchen, twobathrooms and two bedrooms and two attic bedrooms, while a garden flat has a dining kitchen, sitting room, bedroom and bathroom.
Outside there are various outbuildings plus a garage and pleasant gardens.
Fully renovated to a very high standard, the property offers flexible accommodation as it could easily be converted to a five-bed- room house or work as selfcontained holiday let.