Richard Greasby- Head of Butler Sherborn Rural - Why he loves the Cotswolds!
An interview with Richard Greasby - What brought you initially to the Cotswolds?
I was born into a farming family in Oxfordshire, and came to the Cotswolds to study for my degree in Rural Land Management at the RAU about 30 years ago! I took my first job with Strutt & Parker in Moreton in Marsh.....................and haven't left the area since, with the Cotswolds becoming my home. I now live with my wife and three children near Winchcombe, where we are all fully embedded in many aspects of the local community.
How did you become involved in rural property?
As a farmer’s son, I was born into a rural way of life. However, the farm small, and my siblings and I were all told to make our living away from the farm. It was not large enough to sustain more than one family. My parents continue to run the farm albeit with more help now they are getting older. I liked the rural environment and wanted to work within it. I did one week’s work experience with a local firm of land agents when I was 16, and haven't looked back.
What's your role with BS?
I am one of the three Partners of Butler Sherborn, and as Head of the Rural Department, lead the Rural team. I specialise in formal valuations, land sales and purchases, together with farm and estate consultancy.
What aspect of the work do you enjoy the most?
Getting out of the office away from emails and zoom calls! Making a positive difference to someone's life. That might be saving them tax through careful valuation work, achieving a fabulous land sale beyond their expectations, or helping to make difficult decisions about family succession and inheritance planning.
What has been your most memorable/exciting deal?
Helping to buy a £20 million estate in a matter of weeks, whilst at the same time taking over a year to buy one small field!
What do you most like about the Cotswolds, which are your favourite places, and why do you like them?
Its big skies, open countryside and rolling hills. Favourite places - racing at Cheltenham, The 360 view from Langley Hill or Cleeve Hill over Winchcombe, the Cotswold Hills and backover the Vale of Evesham, Malvern Hills and Brecon Hills beyond. Or being anywhere on a shoot day beating, picking up or shooting.
What do you like to do to relax?
Marathons and ultra marathons over the Cotswold Hills, or mountains and coastal paths further afield. Making cider, cooking for friends, trying to train my working cocker and live music! I love a festival!
For any advice on Rural property matters, or formal Valuations, contact Richard Greasby richard@butlersherborn.co.uk 01285 883740
SMOOTH MOVE – Simple steps taken in advance to prepare the way for a smooth move
Currently, in the UK, on average one in three house sales fall through. This is often due to surprises during a conveyance, and buyer fatigue at the length the process can take. There are simple steps Sellers and Buyers can take in advance to help ensure the process is as smooth as possible. The key approach is to reduce as many ‘sales irritants’ as you can and to be well prepared in advance. Unexpected matters will inevitably arise, but with plenty of preparation these will be easier to resolve.
SMOOTH MOVE – Simple steps taken in advance to prepare the way for a smooth move
Things that Go Bang in the Night – Halloween & Guy Fawkes in the Cotswolds!
The Cotswolds offer endless activities for all ages in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations the following weekend, from scary attractions, and pumpkin carving to big bangs, bonfires and fireworks!
Things that Go Bang in the Night – Halloween & Guy Fawkes in the Cotswolds!
Cotswold Residential Market - Stow-on-the-Wold – Helen Whitfield
The residential market around Stow-on-the-Wold has been incredibly active during this current period of political uncertainty, and there have been some notable sales. Many properties are still selling privately under competitive bidding. That being said, the headline guide price needs to be realistic, and the best results are still on the turnkey properties.
Cotswold Residential Market - Stow-on-the-Wold – Helen Whitfield
Ben Way, Head of Butler Sherborn Equestrian - Rounds Up the Eventing Season 2024 with Badminton Qualification
As we head into October, the 2024 eventing season is drawing to a close, with the last couple of events left to go for some of the younger horses. Many of the older horses have already started their winter holidays, where they get an eight week break out in the fields.
Ben Way, Head of Butler Sherborn Equestrian - Rounds Up the Eventing Season 2024 with Badminton Qualification
