An increasing number of rural houses with land are coming on the
market in Shropshire as spiraling maintenance costs and vulnerable
incomes force smallholders to rethink their lifestyles.
Global grain prices have escalated, pushing up the cost of
livestock and horse feed and high energy and utility bills are
falling on the doormats daily.
The cost, both in terms of the financial requirements and the
time commitment, should not be under estimated.
"Many smallholders are starting to feel the pinch, particularly
if their main job is in jeopardy or has been lost," said Sarah
Reece, property specialist with chartered surveyors Berrys at
Shrewsbury.
"The attraction of living in the countryside with your animals
on your own land can lose its appeal if you can't afford to pay the
bills."
Some smallholders are looking to sell up, cash in their asset
and downsize while the price of land remains at an all-time
high.
"There should be no shortage of buyers for a smallholding with a
well maintained house and a productive parcel of land, providing
the guide price is realistic," she said.
But whereas many smallholders in the past wanted their land for
horses and pets or other leisure purposes, there is now a bigger
demand from buyers looking to use the land to grow their own food
in a more self sufficient lifestyle.
"The price of agricultural land is at an all time high so it
makes sense to cash in while the market is strong particularly when
the rest of the residential property market shows little prospect
of picking up in the short term."
Agents such as Berrys, who specialise in farms, land and rural
property, are in an ideal position to market smallholdings.
They have the skills to carefully asses lotting requirements and
development potential to maximise the value and right contacts and
web presence to attract buyers or tenants for smallholdings.
"Smallholding, equestrian properties and residences with land
are in demand despite difficult economic times," Sarah
explained.
"We can market a niche property such as a smallholding without
it getting lost on a large property portal bogged down in town
houses," she added.
If you are considering selling your smallholding or are on the
lookout for such a property contact Sarah Reece at Berrys on 01743
271697 email sarah.reece@berrybros.com To view Berrys website
please visit www.berrybros.com