2025 Round Up

As we close the chapter on 2025 at The Estates Office, I thought I’d take a moment to reflect on the journey throughout the year - a year defined by growth, opportunity, and community.

At the start of the year, back in January we welcomed William Humphries to the team. His arrival was a great boost, helping to support me and take on some of Paul’s work as our portfolio continued to grow. That first month was made all the more special by celebrating both William’s birthday and my own, a lovely way to begin the year!

February brought with it the prospect of expansion, as we had the opportunity to tender for the management of a couple of new estates, setting in motion a process that would shape much of our work later in the year.

As spring approached, we knew the importance of staying on top of best practice and knowledge. We invested in professional development: William and I attended several seminars, CPD events, and legal-hosted briefings - including the Scottish Land & Estates Land Managers Day at Perth Racecourse, ensuring that The Estates Office remains at the forefront of estate management and property knowledge.

During April we supported a client estate with recruitment: bringing on general estate workers and housekeepers in preparation for the self-catering season. A lot of time was spent getting properties ready for guests, ensuring every detail was covered.

That momentum continued through May where more training days followed, covering land-management practices and the latest Scottish property developments. Behind the scenes, we were discussing upcoming estate agency properties, preparing for a busy summer launch season.

And launch season it was. In June we introduced 8B Miller Road to the market, and were delighted to secure a sale within the same month - a brilliant result for both us and our clients! Shortly afterwards, in July, show season got under way with a visit to the Tobermory Games. That same month saw the launch of 10 St Orans Place, which also achieved a successful sale straight away following a closing date that month.

August was a whirlwind of energy and community spirit, as Team TEO travelled to Bunessan, Lorn and Appin Shows, culminating in our headline show at the Argyllshire Gathering. The month was made even better with the arrival of a new member to the team, a Cocker-Poo called Frank, and celebrations for Clare’s birthday.

As the show season drew to a close, we attended the Dalmally Show in September before transitioning into shooting season at Lochnell Estate. On 12th September we were proud to host our Annual TEO Shoot - one of the firm’s most anticipated events for clients, and a valued opportunity to gather with friends and colleagues.

Autumn brought further growth, particularly in our activity on Islay. In October we launched a series of Islay properties, broadening our footprint on the island - and the work included more shooting days and stalking as the season progressed. We also celebrated Sara’s birthday, adding some fun amid the busyness.

That Islay momentum carried into November with further property launches, and we closed the month by showing our support for the community by participating in the Christmas Tree Festival at St Conan’s Kirk. It felt right to round off the autumn by giving back and celebrating together.

December has brought the festive spirit in full. We’ve enjoyed the Oban Winter Festival and watched the Christmas Lights switch on. We placed our own Christmas tree in the office, TEO Christmas cards went out to clients and friends, and we shared Christmas lunch - complete with small gifts and time together. Some of the team even enjoyed a night out to see Tide Lines in Oban. Finally, on 23rd December we closed the office at lunchtime, ready for a well-earned rest!

But December hasn’t been all festive fun and no work - we’ve been busy with three of our properties which have become under offer, one following a very successful closing date with best and finals well over the asking price. 

Looking back, 2025 has been a year of meaningful growth, deepened knowledge, exciting launches, and community - all possible thanks to our dedicated team, wonderful clients, and the broader estate and property community who have supported us.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey this year. We look forward to continued growth in the year ahead and will be back in the office from Monday 5th January.

With kind regards,
Sophie
Director, The Estates Office