Just wanted to add my agreement to the above comments.  We have bought a ruined flour mill and it took a year to get planning permission to rebuild and it will probably take another two to renovate but we are more than happy to take things poc a poc  8-)  We have done things totally by the book, using reputable estate agents, solicitors and architects and wouldn't dream of doing it any other way.

What you have to remember is that it is virtually impossible to build outside of a building's original 'footprint', so be very wary of anyone telling you that you can rebuild a little stone hut into the house of your dreams, however much land comes with it.

I would suggest that any estate agent that tells you that you shouldn't be buying in this area probably has an 'agenda' ie doesn't have any property that you would be interested in!! ;)

Take your time, nothing is ever done in a hurry here anyway, and hopefully something will come your way.

Penny