PICTURE: Yours for £1million – 'exceptionally strong' demand fuels property boom in Ross-shire and Highland capital

A property consultancy is touring “exceptionally strong demand” in the Highlands with competition between buyers and some notable premiums above the asking price being paid for the most sought-after properties.

Galbraith made its remarks after figures suggesting Scotland’s property market is outperforming the rest of the UK with year-on-year sales growth of almost 15 per cent in the past 12 months.

The firm has seen prices rise by 10.7 per cent on average in the Highland region over the past 12 months and the average time taken to sell has decreased. The number of potential buyers registering on the firm’s database has increased by a quarter year on year.

Black Isle-based Kessock House – looking for offers over £975,000 – is among the properties now on the market through the agent. It boasts five bedrooms and five reception rooms, outbuildings and spectacular views over the Beauly Firth.

Maree Johnstone of Galbraith said: “Buyers include many people relocating from other parts of the UK due to the lifestyle on offer in Inverness. There are numerous opportunities for outdoor pursuits nearby, from hiking to munro-bagging, off-road cycling, horseriding, wild swimming and water sports.”

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