The equestrian market is something that Davidson and Robertson believes has growth potential – especially around Aberdeenshire where there is a large and active horse population. Lewis Anderson, director in charge of the Davidson and Robertson Rural and Agency team, is in the perfect place to advise on the equine property market. Lewis is a Chartered Surveyor and Member of the Institute of Agricultural Management and has 20 years’ experience as a Chartered Surveyor, Lewis is taking on a wider role which he focuses on increasing market share for sales and valuations.
Lewis has a small farm in Aberdeenshire which is also home to a stud of prize winning Dartmoor ponies and these strong roots in the farm and equestrian sector and are proving to be an asset for clients looking to buy or sell farm and equine properties. As a consequence, we are seeing an increasing number of equestrian and lifestyle instructions.
Commenting on the equine landscape Lewis said “There are an estimated 70,000* horses in Scotland and around 34% are kept at home on land and stables, with a notable amount – 46% either in livery or renting land or stables. Aberdeenshire, the Lothians and Borders have the strongest equestrian presence, and in Aberdeenshire in particular, we are still seeing high demand for properties that are suited to the equine market. The equine market is still very strong, and despite current fluctuating economic uncertainties.”
Recently, Davidson & Robertson sold an equestrian property with fantastic facilities and access. It was a prompt sale well in excess of asking price.
The equine and rural property experience
Looking to utilise his equine and farming experience, Lewis Anderson has been developing their approach to working with the property market. Lewis said “We have evolved our approach to provide a more tailored service for those looking to buy or sell properties. This more refined practice guides clients through their equine, farm, or rural property journey and has a very personal and proactive approach which is supported by in-depth practical knowledge that clients tell us makes a real difference.
In the last year Davidson and Robertson has successfully sold a range of rural and equestrian properties including rural lifestyle property that attracted in excess of twenty offers and achieving sale substantially above the asking price.
Commenting on the sale of farms Lewis said “Well presented and equipped farms are very sought after, with a number of bidders from parties who are cash buyers with rollover money that they are looking to purchase new units and/or expand. This kind of demand has resulted in keen bidding at closing dates with a pent up requirement for good units.”
“Next year is already looking very positive. We have a strong list of of equine and lifestyle properties coming under instruction on the open market over the next couple of months and into the traditional spring period. These range from lifestyle/equestrian properties and equipped farms to bare land and development opportunities.
“There are also vendors who are keen to sell off market, including equestrian opportunities that are rarely available. It is always in buyers interests to chat to agents because we are then in a position to advise of anything coming up or available as an off market opportunity. The same applies to those looking to sell property either on or off the market.”
If you are considering buying or selling, please call Lewis Anderson for a confidential, no obligation discussion on 0131 449 1155.
*Horse Scotland survey 2019
