The average premium paid above the asking price in the first three months of the year was 5.57 per cent, with buyers attracted by the appeal of a rural lifestyle.

In the first quarter of 2025, market appraisals provided by Galbraith were up by 10 per cent and viewings were up by 15 per cent compared with the same period in 2024, both signs of confidence and positive market sentiment.

Sam Gibson, a partner with Galbraith, said: “Well-located rural property is selling well and attracting significant interest from motivated buyers.

“Demand for rural property is far above the number of properties that come up for sale. That being said, the supply of property is better this year than it was 12 months ago, testament to a market which is functioning well.

“The unique attributes of Northumberland mean that there really is a better quality of life on offer here than in many other parts of the UK. Buyers from within the region and from across the country value the traditional architecture of the region, our beautiful  and varied landscapes, along with good access to Newcastle, the thriving commercial and cultural hub of the region.”

The firm reports that a combination of ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ factors underpin the property market, with ‘hard’ factors such as access to finance and stable interest rates, complemented by ‘soft’ factors and local good news stories such as the recent glorious weather and the success of Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup, boosting the mood of prospective buyers and ensuring sellers have the confidence to proceed with a sale.

Galbraith reports that property hot-spots with the highest prices include historic Corbridge, and pretty coastal villages including Bamburgh and Alnmouth. In other parts of the region, pricing remains favourable  compared with many other areas of England, although there may be considerable variations within the same locale.

Sam Gibson continued: “The most popular properties include those which offer privacy,  but are not necessarily completely off the beaten track. The position of a property makes all the difference, even if it’s in a town or village. Buyers want to be able to enjoy their home and garden without feeling overlooked, and the sense of being ‘tucked away’ is highly valued. Privately-situated properties will always command a premium.”

Recent property launches have been very well received. One beautiful traditional property recently marketed by Galbraith in an edge of village location was ‘under offer’ after one week. Bids for that property were received from local buyers and from buyers based in London. The successful bidder came from within the local area.

Properties currently for sale through Galbraith in Northumberland include:

Easington Farmhouse, a Grade II listed, elegant Georgian property with three reception rooms and six bedrooms. Situated within striking distance of the beautiful beaches of the Northumberland Heritage Coastline.

Hall Hill House, owned by the Armstrong family since the 1400s, now a spacious and elegant family home, with modern additions such as solar panels and a biomass heating system. Five bedrooms, three reception rooms plus orchard, and four acres of land. Situated on the edge of the village of Longframlington, with striking views across the Coquet Valley.