The team in Aberdeen recorded healthy property sales over the final quarter of 2023 (Q4, Oct – Dec), with sales up 15 per cent over this period compared to the previous quarter (Q3, July – Sept).

60 per cent of buyers were from Scotland with 40 per cent coming from the rest of the UK.

There were 76 properties being marketed by Galbraith in the Aberdeenshire area during the final quarter of 2023 and 171 property viewings were carried out, indicating an active market for both buying and selling.   

February is the optimum month for putting your property on the market, when homes have the best chance of finding a buyer more quickly, with March a very close second.  

Hannah Christiansen, head of sales for Galbraith in Aberdeen, said: “Our figures are extremely encouraging and have set us up well for the start of 2024 and looking ahead to the Spring selling season. We are excited about this year with more positivity in the market in general compared to last year. 2023 brought uncertainty around increased interest rates and subsequently higher mortgage payments. Although a degree of caution remains, sellers and buyers are certainly showing they have the confidence and determination in 2024 to move forward with their future plans and make the move.

“Demand continues for properties with land, anything from one acre for that special garden, five acres for lifestyle buyers keen on being more sustainable and growing their own, or young families seeking outdoor space and up to 10 acres for those with an equestrian interest. We have seen good demand for rural traditional cottages as well as larger, modern and contemporary energy efficient properties that are more affordable to run and maintain, compared to the more traditional house.”

“February and March are typically busy months for us preparing all our new properties coming to the market for spring, as well as buyers considering their next move and keen to be in their new home for the summertime to enjoy the garden space. We have noticed a marked increase in property appraisals being carried out by our team throughout February in particular, and sellers should be taking advantage of the fact that both local and ‘out of area’ buyers are active now in the Aberdeenshire area. Location is not as big a factor for buyers who are now far more flexible due to hybrid working and those attracted to the area continue to be local as well as those attracted to the region from further afield.”

“It’s imperative properties for sale are well presented and accurately valued if they are to sell well, and ultimately achieve the best price possible.”

Hannah offers her advice for preparing your property for the impending Spring market:

“First impressions count, so make sure the first thing a potential buyer will see is appealing. This includes the garden, it is an extension of your house so make sure the grass has been cut, that borders are tidy and that there is a splash of colour.  

“Do not overspend on sprucing up your property as many buyers do not expect a property in ‘walk in condition’, however spending a little including a lick of fresh paint won’t go a miss in the main public rooms and the kitchen, where most of your time is likely to be spent.”

“Decluttering is a must. Remember potential buyers need to be able to visualise their own furniture in situ, so allow the eye to make that connection by presenting as much space as possible. Finally, make sure the property is clean, including the windows.”

Currently for sale through Galbraith in Aberdeen:

Beechwood House | Exterior

Beechwood House – Orchard Grove, Blackburn, Kinnellar, Aberdeenshire, Offers Over £495,000

Beechwood House is a beautiful executive property finished to a high standard with many noteworthy and interesting features. This property has three reception rooms and five bedrooms and offers family living with a high degree of flexibility. It is located in a private and secluded location in Blackburn, a quiet village only nine miles North West of Aberdeen city and surrounded by beautiful countryside with a mature woodland surrounding the site. The rear garden has a sense of privacy second to none with a lawn area providing the perfect child and pet friendly area to enjoy.

Front of Northbrae House

Northbrae House, Torphins, Banchory, Aberdeenshire, Offers Over £750,000

Northbrae House is an impressive, detached five-bedroom family home in the popular Torphins area of Royal Deeside, a short drive from Banchory. The property has an elevated and private position with incredible views across beautiful Royal Deeside and towards Morven and the Cairngorms National Park. The property offers versatility, space and a contemporary design and style with a huge amount of natural light throughout, whilst being situated in around 1.14 acres of private grounds.