THE property market in the Borders is the most active in Scotland, according to an estate agent.

During the year’s third quarter [July 1-September 30], Galbraith says that the number of viewings in the area increased by 102 per cent, with the number of houses available on the market rising by 39 per cent.

The firm has seen a significant increase in sales in the area during 2020, despite the coronavirus pandemic.

Alex Inglis, the agent’s head of residential agency for the area, says that many rural properties are “selling well at a closing date and are achieving a premium above the guide price”.

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“The past quarter has been notable for the very significant level of interest in rural property, in particular homes with a good-sized garden or some additional land,” said Mr Inglis.

“These are the key selling points, along with a suitable space to work from home and a good broadband connection or satellite broadband.

“Prices are healthy, with the underlying trend continuing to show gradual price increases rather than sharp rises or falls.

“This price stability is an advantage for buyers and sellers, providing long-term growth in the value of a property but preventing speculative investment.”

Mr Inglis added that people from southern England are relocating to the Borders due to the area’s “superb countryside alongside the ability to work from home”.

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“We have good transport connections to the rest of the UK by train via the East Coast Main Line from Berwick and air connections from Edinburgh and Newcastle airports,” he said.

“The Borders rail link provides a good service to Edinburgh. For all of these reasons, property is selling well and rural property is in great demand.”

The Scottish Government has issued a number of measures to follow when moving home, in order to stay safe during the pandemic.

These measures include initial viewings to be conducted virtually, while touching surfaces should be avoided while viewing a property in person.

You should only be accompanied to viewings by members of your current household and/or your property agent, social landlord or private landlord or representative.