There has been a fivefold increase in rural property sellers approaching Davidson & Robertson to market their properties.

The market is ticking upward in terms of the number of properties coming to market.

Chris Edmunds, D&R director and head of agency said: “Confidence in what we can achieve for both buyers and sellers is very encouraging and continues to grow. Sellers are approaching us on recommendation. Word spreads quickly in rural communities and referrals go a long way when people are deciding who they want alongside to sell their property.

“The uncertainty of higher interest rates, coupled with the effect of Brexit and policy changes, has held the market back, but there are now more properties coming to market as this uncertainty is lifting and sellers are making a move.

"Other factors influencing decisions to sell relate to changes in circumstances, with some choosing to retire, others looking at restructuring their farming enterprises and some selling due to lack of succession. Some are transitioning from traditional farming and want to cash in on environmental enhancements. We are also likely to see more smaller pockets of land come to market from sellers looking to reduce debt when faced with higher borrowing interest rates.”

The market shows signs of being more buoyant than in the last few years, with an active property market anticipated for the year ahead.

Commenting, Chris said “During the first quarter of 2024, there has been strong interest in selling farms and pockets of land. For some, the extremely cold and wet weather has delayed their properties coming to market, waiting for the ground to dry and fields to green up so their properties look their best.”