TWO unique features in this property made it a case of love at first sight for owner Irene Smith.
Linwood, at Upperton of Gask outside Turriff, is an incredibly spacious, six-bedroom house set among expansive grounds.
And with its grand, double-sweeping staircase and massive upper landing with private balcony, it was too good to resist.
“I think the schedule had only been online for an hour when we spotted it,” said 48-year-old Irene, who runs a construction business with husband Harry, 50.
“Then when we went to see it I liked it immediately. ”I saw the staircase and the landing and thought they were really nice. We offered to buy it right away, there was no hanging around for a closing date.”
The big house has a light and airy feel to it, with all the space you could need for family life.
It’s been a comfortable home for Irene and Harry along with their two sons Sean, 20, and Logan, 15.
And with Dalgetie Woods just a short distance away, it’s been a perfect place for their three dogs, miniature schnauzers Pepsi and Kenzie, and spaniel Mickey.
Upon entering the property, the grand staircase grabs the attention immediately.
Built in a double-cantilevered style, it’s made from a warm oak wood and has a luxury feel with a chandelier hanging overhead.
It leads to a truly spectacular galleried landing. Easily big enough to form an additional reception room, it has French doors which lead out to a decked balcony.
Irene said: “It’s been a lovely place to sit on a summer evening with a glass of wine.
“One of the other things we liked about this property was the position it has above the town.
“There are lovely views from here and it’s nice and quiet, although you’re just a mile from Turriff and all the shops.”
The house also benefits from a big, modern kitchen which is on semi open-plan with a family room.
There is a huge lounge where Irene has placed colourful, traditional-style pieces of furniture.
And the family bathroom is also superb, with a big jacuzzi-style bath.
Outside, Irene and Harry have completely transformed their garden which is fully-enclosed and private.
“It was like a blank canvas when we moved in and we’ve completely redeveloped the garden,” added Irene.
“We’ve planted lots of shrubs and in a few years’ time it will be an ideal low-maintenance garden – although we won’t be here to see that happen.”
The Smith family are looking forward to their next project and will be building their own home from scratch.
Irene said: “We’ll definitely miss this house and if we weren’t building our own, we’d be staying.”
And she added: “I think it will suit anyone who like a peaceful, quiet location and lots of space.”