The number of property sales handled by the Galbraith team in the firm’s Kelso office rose by 14 per cent in 2024 compared with 2023, with the total value of these sales being 23 per cent higher, year-on-year.

Over the same period, the average exchange price of properties sold in the Scottish Borders increased by eight per cent to £386,631.

Galbraith as a whole, which operates across Scotland and the north of England, reported a year-on-year increase in sales of 14 per cent for 2024 and an increase in average pricing of 11 per cent.

Susan Guthrie, head of residential sales for Galbraith in the Scottish Borders, said: “A rural home in the Scottish Borders offering a peaceful lifestyle is particularly sought-after, especially if there is land included. When priced accurately, properties are attracting a good level of competition, selling well and achieving good offers above the asking price.

“Given the lifestyle benefits on offer in the Scottish Borders and its proximity to the English border, we have witnessed an increase in buyers from outwith the area as well as people returning to their roots after many years away.

“Along with the addition of the Borders Rail Link in Galashiels, the East Coast Main Line and the main road links (A7 and A68) to both Edinburgh and the north of England, the Scottish Borders is well connected and offers fantastic commuter links for those working on a hybrid arrangement with both office and home working. As such, many are attracted to the value for money here whilst being away from the hustle and bustle of city life.”

A standout sale handled by Galbraith in the Scottish Borders this year was Baillieknowe Farmhouse, near Kelso, a stunning nine-bedroom property with generous outbuildings, stables and over one acre of land. The sale completed successfully after only being on the market for four weeks.

Currently for sale through Galbraith is Alderybar, near Hawick, a detached, energy efficient family home in an idyllic rural setting, yet only around nine miles from the town of Hawick.

Also newly on the market with Galbraith is 1 Kirkhope Farm Cottages, Yarrow Valley. A lovely country cottage located in the rolling hills of the Ettrick Valley and close to the thriving Royal Burgh of Selkirk.