May is one of the most crucial months in the Scottish Borders property market, with the number of properties launched for sale rising in line with the sunnier days and warmer temperatures.

Susan Guthrie, Senior Associate with Galbraith, says both traditional and more modern properties are attracting a good level of interest due to the appeal of the region for its culture and lifestyle: “Properties are selling well and the market here is warming up for the summer as would be expected. The Scottish Borders offers a superb rural lifestyle, a wide range of property styles to choose from, high-quality local amenities and schooling, plus the honeypot areas of Melrose, Kelso, Galashiels and Jedburgh which attract people from within Scotland and further afield.”

For those looking to sell their home in the coming months, there are several key steps that will help make the process as seamless as possible.

Susan continued: “I advise anyone about to put their home up for sale to plan in advance and prepare as much as possible. Ensure your home is clean and tidy inside and out and tackle any minor DIY or gardening jobs to ensure it is presented in the best possible light. Focus on the front garden or driveway, the exterior of the house and the entrance hall so that viewers will be met with a warm and welcoming first impression.

“Attractive property pictures are absolutely crucial to stand out in a crowded online market. Take advice from your agent on how best to present your home for photography, but start by decluttering – this is never a waste of time and can make a significant difference to the amount of interest your property generates. Most people cannot see the property’s potential if it’s messy or crammed full of possessions in every room. By contrast, if your property looks like a much-loved family home, it will have strong appeal for a wide range of potential buyers and is likely to sell more successfully and more quickly.

“Finally, listen to your agent when it comes to considering an offer from a potential buyer. If a buyer makes a good offer above the listing price, but hasn’t sold their own property, your agent may advise against accepting that offer. It is always the home-owner’s decision but the time and heartache involved when a property sale falls through are not to be taken lightly! Nobody wants to go back to square one after accepting an offer. Understanding the circumstances of the buyer, and how likely it is that they will be able to complete on their offer, is absolutely crucial. A good agent will investigate fully any property chain that the buyer is involved in, saving you time, stress and money.”

Currently on the market through Galbraith in the Scottish Borders are properties including:

Inchdarnie House, St. Boswells, near Melrose, Offers Over £595,000

An impressive seven-bedroom period property in the heart of the picturesque village of St. Boswells. The property combines timeless charm, a great location and an attractive garden with established borders and fruit trees.

Sunwick Farmhouse, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, Offers over £485,000

A beautiful six-bedroom B-listed farmhouse with a wealth of period features. Situated in a private and peaceful location approximately 1.5 miles from Hutton, the property offers an excellent opportunity for renovation and modernisation to create a superb family home.