Looking back to early 2025, the anticipated release of properties in early spring did not materialise – in part, due to the ongoing tax debate. Nevertheless, at D&R, tender appraisals and pre-purchase work continued to grow across most property types.
High quality farms and excellent quality assets have seen strong demand, with buyers influenced primarily by location and asset-specific attributes.
In contrast, demand for poorer quality, less attractive properties was slower across most sectors, with some rural properties launched in the spring needing to be reevaluated with a more competitive price. Strategic lotting has proved effective; one example saw us receive a new instruction where the property had been on the market elsewhere. It was relotted and price adjusted by 6%, resulting in an agreed sale within ten days.
In the last six months, reduced interest rates and inflationary pressures easing, has resulted in a greater appetite to sell and increasing activity; we launched 50% more properties July – September compared to 2024, reflecting the greater market confidence. Similarly, our year-on-year performance highlights a 50% more properties under offer or completed. In part, this was driven by a desire to complete transactions ahead of proposed tax changes in spring, as well as uncertainty surrounding potential implications from the November budget on higher-value assets.
Overall, in 2025, we have increased our market share and despite the slower spring, we have launched 10% more properties than the previous year, although asking prices have moderated, reflecting the need to price realistically.
Looking ahead, we expect current market trends to continue into 2026. Well located, high quality properties are likely to perform strongly, whilst those in secondary locations or of lower presentation quality, will require careful pricing and expectation management. Whilst we do not yet know the full implications from the Autumn Budget, we anticipate the market in 2026 will be an opportunity for both buyers and sellers to do deals right across the property sector.
2025 has been a year to reset expectations across the board. Moving towards 2026, we are delighted to report several good-quality new instructions have already been secured. If you are thinking of selling in 2026, now is an ideal time to plan ahead and engage with your team of professional service providers and prepare in advance.
Your five-step plan when considering selling your property:
- Instruct an experienced agency team with a comprehensive understanding of the market. They will advise on how best to market your property, whether open-market, off-market, or sold in lots – and will recommend an appropriate launch price. They can also guide you on most effective photography and videography options.
- Appoint a solicitor early on so title deeds and boundary issues can be resolved in advance and prevent delays once a sale is agreed.
- Consult your accountant or tax advisor to discuss potential tax liabilities, particularly in light of potential changes in the forthcoming Autumn Budget.
- If you have tenants or grazing agreements, ensure they are formalised, as vacant possession will significantly improve saleability.
- Use winter to carry out maintenance and tidying. Review the property from a buyer’s perspective, paying attention to fencing, gates, walls, and troughs. Well-presented properties photograph better and generate stronger buyer interest in spring and summer.
If you are considering a property sale and would like a free, no obligation discussion, contact our Agency Team on 0131 449 6212 or 01900 268633, or email sales@drrural.co.uk.
