Cairngarroch steading, Dumfries and Galloway, £100,000 o/o

The problems: The steading is in fairly good condition, and mains services that serve the farmhouse are nearby, so it should be straightforward for the new owner to install water and electricity, but they will have to put in private drainage. Estimated costs for the conversion of the 3,013sq ft steading, to include re-roofing and dampproofing, is £224,000. The caravan visible in the picture is not included in the sale.

The advantages: Despite the guide price, buyers should be prepared to pay the national average house price of £142,355, for the agricultural outbuildings in Dumfries and Galloway, where according to Scottish Executive figures, property prices rose by 13.3% in 2006.

“Steadings to renovate in this area are few and far between,” says the selling agent, who has sent out about 30 brochures, “especially those with a bit of land.” Prices for similar four- or five-bedroom rural properties in southwest Scotland start at £400,000.

Bell Ingram, 01292 886 544, www.bellingram.co.uk; Dumfries and Galloway council, 01387 260 000, www.dumgal.gov.uk

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