Are You Ready for the 1st May?
We have been waiting for the Renters’ Rights Act for a long time and the first major phase is set to go live on 1st May 2026. It is the most significant overhaul of the private rented sector in nearly 40 years. The Act introduces fundamental changes to how tenancies are managed and terminated, with some of the key […]
Strong Agent – Strong Advice
Across the rural, village and high-end property market we are seeing a shift where buyers and sellers are more considered. In the current economic/political climate, decisions carry a greater weight, that’s why having a strong agent and even stronger advice is no longer optional, it is essential. Pricing strategy, timing, presentation, and negotiation all require a […]
Commercial Property Valuations for Tertiary Retail in Lancashire & Cumbria
Insights from Barrow-in-Furness, Morecambe and Blackpool A recent instruction across Barrow-in-Furness, Morecambe and Blackpool undertaking RICS valuations of neighbourhood retail properties provided a useful reminder that, while headline retail performance has been challenging for many years, not all parts of the sector behave in the same way. Away from prime high streets and shopping centres, […]
Welcome to the Team George Wilkinson
George joined Armitstead Barnett having graduated from Harper Adams University in 2025 with a degree in Rural enterprise and Land Management. George has primarily worked in Estate Management across Cumbria, North Yorkshire and Lancashire, completing his placement year in Kirkby Lonsdale before moving to North Yorkshire/Harrogate as a Graduate Surveyor. Now back home in Garstang […]
Farming Grants and SFI Updates: Key Opportunities for 2026
February proved to be informative, with significant details emerging regarding forthcoming agricultural grants for the year ahead. Opening on 17 March and running until midday on 28 April, the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund will accept applications for the final time in its current format. This popular scheme enables farmers and contractors to access up […]
Inheritance Tax Reforms: Government Raises Relief Cap but Key Changes Remain for Farming Sector
The UK Government’s announcement, on 23 December 2025, to increase the cap on 100% inheritance tax relief for agricultural and business assets from £1 million to £2.5 million per individual has been widely welcomed across the rural sector. The decision, introduced under Chancellor Rachel Reeves, marks a significant revision to earlier proposals. Industry bodies, including […]
Low Newton Auction
Our Cumbria team hosted a successful public auction on Tuesday 24th March 2026, held at The Gilpin Bridge Inn, Levens. We were delighted to offer a substantial block of agricultural land extending to approximately 93.09 acres, forming part of Low Newton Farm at Newton in Cartmel. The land was divided into six lots, comprising a […]
Our North Lancashire office has moved… but not too far!
After 27 wonderful years serving the North Lancashire community from our high street office in Garstang, we are pleased to announce that we have moved to a new location in Nateby, just a few minutes down the road. Over the years our team has grown, and thanks to the continued support of our valued customers […]
Housing Market Update
As March gets underway, the outlook for the UK housing market appears more positive than many anticipated at the start of the year. Following a slower start to 2026, modest price growth, improving levels of available property, and steady buyer demand suggest the spring market could bring a period of stable and sustainable recovery, with […]
Thinking of Moving?
Have you ever wondered “What is my home really worth?” If so, you’re not on your own. Whether you’re actively planning a move or simply curious about the current market, a professional property appraisal is the first step. Market changes Property prices can shift quickly. Recent market conditions, buyer demand, interest rates, and even small […]
Farming Equipment and Technology Fund 2026
Even before the claim window for the 2025 round has closed, the next round is due to open on 17th March 2026. There will be a tight window of 6 weeks to get applications in before the deadline of 28th April. These applications will be competitive and available items are set to be similar to […]
Three Things That Make All the Difference When Selling
Many people believe selling a home is simply about putting it online and waiting for the right buyer to appear. Achieving a strong result comes down to getting three main areas right from the very beginning, basic marketing principles, Price, Presentation and Promotion. PriceOne of the most important decisions you will make is how your […]
