WHILE you’re probably pretty savvy by now about “the birds and the bees”, you may not have thought about letting winged creatures fly free in your home.

WHEN you come to sell your home it’s important to allocate realistic time slots to people who want to view it. With this in mind, the owners of Annandale House, on the outskirts of Huntly, will need to give each house-hunter a good hour or two to make their way around the grounds of this grand country home. Not only does it come with a paddock of about two acres and garden grounds stretching to nearly an acre, there’s also the opportunity to buy a quaint country cottage and a pavilion with a hot tub – quite a day of viewing.

A NEW review aimed at improving the management and conditions of people living in houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) has been launched by Housing and Planning Minister Caroline Flint.

THE uncertainty in the housing market and the threat of soaring mortgage rates means that many homeowners are taking the decision to stay put and focus on upgrading their existing property rather than moving home. But when it comes to getting in an electrician to undertake work, many people are having a less than satisfactory experience.

THE lure of long, bright days full of sunshine ensures that one of the most popular destinations for people from the UK to emigrate to is Australia. Amid the quest to escape Scotland’s often miserable weather in search of sun, fun and the famed laid-back lifestyle of Australia, those emigrating there often don’t think of basic, but key, considerations that are vital for ensuring a smooth move that is as stress-free as possible.

LAST week’s feature about Leddach House prompted a number of readers to contact us with tales about the charming property. For Bill Rose, from Elrick, it meant he could share his interesting story.

DESPITE talk of a slowdown in house prices, Scotland continues to be a property hotspot, with Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh faring particularly well.

THERE’S so much more to Scandinavian style than flat-pack furniture and its attendant stress.

1. STEP ON IT: Whether you just want to welcome them home every time they step through the door, or leave a constant reminder of your lovely self so they don’t forget to call you, these mats are the perfect way to do it. The words are produced on to high quality PVC backed coir mats and you can add a personal message of up to 12 characters per line, printed in bold black letters. Priced at £27.95 and available by calling 0845 217 6382 or visiting www.gettingpersonal.co.uk