SCOTLAND'S rural property market has been ticking over behind the scenes of Covid-19 restrictions, but looks set to blossom now that easing has begun.

And, there are big changes afoot. Almost all agents report a huge demand for country lifestyle properties as urbanites find that travelling to 'the office' everyday is fast becoming a thing of the past, fuelled by home-working encouraged during lockdown.

Properties with good local infrastructure, including broadband availability are leading the way. Farm land is also selling away quietly and land for planting is being very much sought after.

In this special feature, Kelly Henaughen takes a look at what's driving the market