A Terrific Trio
December 2020! Christmas is round the corner. Where did the year go? And what a year!
Christmas is a time for family and spending time at home. Many of us have spent far more time at home this year than usual and it has certainly given rise to thoughts of what home really means. A secure place for the family first and foremost - a solid investment – a place to be yourself, to be creative – a haven from the outside world.
Homes come in every shape, size and price -the latter according to affordability and preference. Covid-19 has given rise to many looking to reassess their preference and move to a totally new environment - mostly urban to rural or at least creating more outside space. A big leap of faith for many in a rapidly changing world. For those with an adequate budget the second home market has flourished in recent months with Devon and Cornwall seeing many people buying in their favoured waterside spots we are so lucky to enjoy.
Devon - the only county with two distinct coastlines, two Moors, a world heritage coastline, a thriving Cathedral city , historic market towns and miles of undulating stunning countryside -why wouldn’t you want to live in such a beautiful county?
So, what can you buy?
City: Little Nutmeg. Northernhay Square. Exeter. A charming 3 bedroom Victorian house in a quiet backwater yet close to the City centre and all its amenities. Retaining period features this must be an excellent first or retirement home; Strutt and Parker (01392 215631)
Moorland: Higher Coombe. Lustleigh. A stunning country house looking across its own 70acre coombe, with pasture, woodland and lakes. Idyllic on the edge of the village. The restored stone house belies a stylish contemporary interior. Together with two cottages, swimming pool, barns and south facing gardens this is the perfect family estate in the Dartmoor National Park. Knight Frank (01392 423111)
Waterside: Rock Vale. Dartmouth Nestling in a private south facing valley with background sea scape this truly amazing setting is perfect for this modern Grand Designs home. The principal open plan accommodation extends to almost 5,000 sq.ft including five bedroom suites , with most rooms looking across the extensive, landscaped terraced gardens interspersed with a stream. Together with a three bedroom cottage, 70 foot modern agricultural barn. A true one off! Savills (01548 800462).
It is interesting that aside from affordability and practicality, the focus of home has turned full circle to earlier times. It has taken a world pandemic for us to recognise the importance of a safe haven from an uncontrollable invader and to appreciate the importance of family life in an environment of our choosing.
So, lets enjoy Christmas, reflect on the year past and look forward to a bright new year - 2021. In the meantime, stay safe and well at home - It’s all about coming home.