Costs to owning a bit of land.

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Currently looking at a property to buy that comes with a chunk of land, ~45 acres. It’s mix of woodland and meadows and, as far as I can let from maps, has no public right of ways cutting across it and the majority of the boundary is unfenced.

I appreciate it will take some maintaining, and that will cost, but I have no idea how much that could be. I’m told there is also an option of renting out one 10 acres section for grazing which will offset some costs.

Anyone done or doing something similar and what advice can they give?
 

Supersuperleeds

Legendary Member
Location
Leicester
Is it in Scotland? Don't you have right to roam laws up there?
 

Supersuperleeds

Legendary Member
Location
Leicester
This is what google AI says, helpfully gives no figures, but outlines the type of costs you will likely incur.

Owning land in Scotland involves various ongoing costs, including non-domestic rates (if applicable), potential maintenance expenses, and the possibility of public liability insurance. The specific costs can vary widely based on the land's location, size, and intended use.



Ongoing Costs:
  • Non-domestic rates:
    If the land is not classified as a domestic property, non-domestic rates may be applied.
  • Maintenance:
    Depending on the type of land and any structures on it, costs for upkeep, such as grass cutting, tree maintenance, or removal of fly-tipped waste, can arise.

  • Public Liability Insurance:
    For land that is used for recreational purposes or where public access is permitted, public liability insurance is recommended to cover potential accidents or injuries.

  • Potential Nuisance Costs:
    If the land is not maintained properly, it could lead to issues like infestations or become a nuisance to neighbors, requiring additional expenses.

  • Other potential costs:
    Depending on the specific land and its use, there could be costs associated with obligations to maintain rights of way, clear invasive species, or other site-specific requirements.
Factors Influencing Costs:
  • Location:
    Land prices and associated costs can vary significantly based on the location within Scotland.
  • Land Use:
    The purpose for which the land is used (e.g., agricultural, residential development, or commercial) will impact the types and amount of ongoing costs.

  • Size:
    Larger plots of land generally incur higher rates and maintenance costs.

  • Planning Permission:
    Land with existing planning permission for development may have a higher initial cost but could also lead to reduced costs for future development.

  • Market Conditions:
    Fluctuations in the market can affect land values and the potential for future expenses or returns.
In summary, while the upfront cost of land is significant, ongoing costs can vary significantly depending on the type of land, its location, and its intended use. Careful consideration of these factors is essential when assessing the overall financial implications of owning land in Scotland.
 
Thanks, I did a similar search and got a similar list.

I got a quote for public liability insurance of £105 per annum. In terms of maintenance the only concern is the forested area, in event of trees becoming dangerous but I know enough people who own a chainsaw, or 6, and would be happy to help for a few beers and them taking whats cut for firewood. There is also a path worn along the river but it’s in a good state and not a current concern.

Fly tipping is a big unknown and I suspect there are other potential costs I am missing. Whilst I know I can afford things at the moment I need to consider affordability when I retire as I don’t plan on moving again.
 

Pat "5mph"

A kilogrammicaly challenged woman
Moderator
Location
Glasgow
Whilst I know I can afford things at the moment I need to consider affordability when I retire as I don’t plan on moving again.
A wee bit OT, have you considered how you will access healthcare should you need it in your later years?
How easy to reach is this location for delivery services should you not be able to get to the shops?
 
A wee bit OT, have you considered how you will access healthcare should you need it in your later years?
How easy to reach is this location for delivery services should you not be able to get to the shops?

It’s not that remote, I need to consider being close to work for the time being, which is in the main hospital for the area. I’ve checked the postcode and all the major supermarkets deliver there.
 

PaulSB

Squire
It’s not that remote, I need to consider being close to work for the time being, which is in the main hospital for the area. I’ve checked the postcode and all the major supermarkets deliver there.
That's an interesting criteria for property purchase, one I would never have considered.

Regarding the later years point I have a friend who owned and lived on a 3000 acre Argyll farm. He sold up and moved to a local village simply because he was concerned about his potential inability to access a shop, post office, GP surgery etc.
 

T4tomo

Legendary Member
That's an interesting criteria for property purchase, one I would never have considered.

Regarding the later years point I have a friend who owned and lived on a 3000 acre Argyll farm. He sold up and moved to a local village simply because he was concerned about his potential inability to access a shop, post office, GP surgery etc.

As covered above, as long as you dont fall over the boundary line, you can just be left to rot 😉
 

Gwylan

Guru
Location
All at sea⛵
See if there is anyone locally training tree surgeons. I have one who is a client here in S.E.
He is always on the lookout for woodland he can use for training.
The deal is usually that he uses the woodland.
Trainees learn, clear up the area. He removes and sells the timber and the owner gets a nice clean woodland.
 

Electric_Andy

Heavy Metal Fan
Location
Plymouth
In terms of maintenance, boundaries are the priority. It might need completely re-fencing. Trees are not an issue if you have all the gear, but if you have to get rid of one, you need chainsaw, probably hire a splitter, and then some way of getting the wood out e.g. trailer.

It really depends on what you want to use the land for. Any animals in there, or letting it out for grazing, your fences need to be tip top. A rather lazy farming neighbour of ours has had cattle escape twice. One lot ended up on the A38. Another lot got into the neighbouring turf field and had to reimburse for the turf damaged by the cattle. They will climb a 5 foot hedge no problem if there's not good fencing to stop them.

Also if letting out you'd need a water supply and a trough.
 
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