Amy Wilson, Rural Property Advisor at H&H Land & Estates, gives a South West Cumbria Rural Property Market Update for Spring 2025.

"Following the quieter winter months, Spring has brought with it a renewed energy to the South West Cumbria rural property market, with a noticeable increase in buyer activity. Encouragingly, and underlining growing market confidence, this momentum is being reflected across all sectors of the rural property markets and price points, from small cottages and rural homes to large estates, agricultural land, and development opportunities.

A clear trend we're seeing is the return of buyers who had stopped proactively searching for property due to the economic uncertainty in recent years and interest rate hikes. We are also seeing, as a result if competitive mortgage products, a resurgence of first-time buyers looking to invest on the first rung of the property ladder. 

Well-presented, realistically priced homes are performing particularly well, while overpriced listings are tending to linger.

One of the most notable successes of the year so far was the sale of Moss Rigg in Bandrake Head, Ulverston. This five-bedroom property, requiring complete refurbishment, was offered with just over 1 ½ acres of productive meadow land.  With interest from buyers from across the UK, a closing date was set within 6 weeks and the property sold for 11 % in excess of its guide of £419,500. This sale reflects not only a reinvigorated level of buyer enthusiasm but also the importance of accurate pricing and professional presentation.

In terms of demand, three- and four-bedroom family homes continue to top buyers' wish lists, especially those with gardens and off-street parking. Traditional stone cottages and rural properties with scenic views and land are also highly desirable, particularly among out-of-area buyers looking to embrace the lifestyle opportunities that this South West tip of Cumbria offers. Specific areas being sought after are notably the Furness Peninsula, including Ulverston, Broughton, and Millom.

With interest rates showing signs of stabilising, we expect market activity to remain strong and anticipate a buoyant late spring and summer with more new listings helping to balance supply and demand. Lifestyle movers, those seeking a change from city life to a more relaxed rural setting, are expected to continue to play a major role in the local market.

Looking ahead, there are a number of interesting properties set to come to market in the coming weeks. Among them is land at Mountain View Farm in Kirkby-in-Furness, comprising approximately 28 acres, which will be offered in two lots with a guide price of £120,000 to £150,000. The property is to be sold by auction, taking place on 22^nd May at The Community Hall in Grizebeck.

We're also preparing to bring a traditional farm to market towards the end of May, located in the South West Cumbria area near Ulverston. This property has a rich agricultural history and was once used as a riding stables, livery yard, and riding school around 35 years ago. The site includes a range of traditional buildings – barns, stables, and a large haybarn – that, while showing signs of age, still offer a great deal of character. The farmhouse itself has been extended over the years and retains many original features, such as exposed beams, slate floors, and stone fireplaces.

These forthcoming listings reflect the diversity of rural property available in the area and highlight the evolving opportunities for buyers looking for land, restoration projects, or lifestyle changes. As the market continues to gain momentum into the summer, we expect to see continued interest from a broad range of buyers, both local and from further afield."