Buying a Scottish Estate
Guide to finding and buying a Scottish Estate
Specialist in Scottish Estates
Andrew Rettie Consulting
A significant amount of the work undertaken by Andrew Rettie Consulting is representing the buyers of Estates in Scotland.
This guide outlines what you can expect to receive when asking us to source and buy a Scottish Sporting Estate. Click here to view the ten key points any buyer should be aware of when sourcing a new Estate.
Rapport
The process starts in Andrew Rettie Consulting building a rapport with the potential purchaser(s) and listening to his/her particular needs and wishes. From this, a bond of trust develops as we are appointed with instructions to act.
Search
We will then search for an Estate that matches the buyer’s investment criteria. We have a huge knowledge of Scotland and of many of its estates. The market is a small pool insomuch that only 20 to 40 Estates are offered for sale each year.
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Our network of contacts allow us to offer our clients access to both private and public Estate sales. We will create a shortlist of potential Estates for your consideration.
View
The next stage of the process is to arrange to view and inspect the Estate. This allows us to appraise its suitability and carefully consider the merits, drawbacks and scope for improvement.
Valuation
Our experience with Scottish Estates enables us to make a detailed assessment of value, which is based on comparable evidence.
Negotiation
Andrew Rettie Consulting will act on your behalf in the negotiations and guide you through the purchasing process.
Completion
When the Heads of Terms are agreed, we will work closely in conjunction with the client's Scottish Solicitor in the legals and due diligence to ensure a smooth completion.
Key Considerations when Buying an Estate.
Location
Consider whether you would prefer an estate on the mainland or on an island; north or south; and proximity to an airport.
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The nature of some estates means that you should also consider the availability of local services such as a medical practice, vet, bank and a range shops.
Cottages
Estates have a varying number of cottages and ancillary buildings. Some are occupied by employees, some are rented out, and others can be used for holiday accommodation.
Forestry
Consider the investment opportunities and tax advantages of forestry on the Estate. There may be existing amenity broad leafed woods, commercial conifer forests, or scope for new planting with woodland carbon credits.
Amenities
Consider if the Estate is on or near a coastline and has water/loch frontage. Consider also if privacy is a concern.
Re-wilding
There is a big interest from potential buyers on the scope for Estates to have a re-wilding programme; with particular focus on conservation, peatland restoration and carbon sequestration.
Price
Consider the allocated financial budget for the purchase and any capex required.
Main House
Consider the size and architectural merit of the principal Estate house. Consider also its energy efficiency, services and utilities, scope for modernisation, listing, and council tax obligations.
Sportings
Determine your preferences for:
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Driven or walked up grouse shooting
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Red/roe deer stalking
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River fishing for salmon and sea trout
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Driven pheasant and partridge shoot
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Rough shooting with snipe, woodcock, pigeon, duck flighting, rabbit, and hare
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Loch fishing for trout.
Farming
Most Estates have some form of farming enterprise on them. This is usually either managed in-hand or let to generate rental income; or indeed a combination of both.
Renewables
There may be opportunity for hydro-electric schemes, wind farms, or solar farms.
Employees
Depending on their size, Estates have full and/or part-time staff and sometimes contractors for the various enterprises. Buyers need to be aware of their employer responsibilities.