A Whole New Year
January 2022 - a new beginning many will be pleased to see. But what is in store for us in the property world?
There are mixed views as to the ongoing impact of Covid-19 from a social and financial aspect. Whilst the drive to move to rural areas has slowed and the hovering threat of interest rate rises and inflation creates uncertainty the fact the demand still exceeds supply drives the market with houses still creating competitive bidding and prices achieving record levels.
At the end of 2021 there is an air of cautiousness with many would be vendors reluctant to commit to marketing as they cannot find a property to buy -a cyclical problem where a strong sellers’ market could turn to a buyer’s market and the whole game could change.
As I write this the water is twinkling in the winter sunshine and Devon delivers that magical aura that makes it a special place to live, whether City, coastal or countryside.
As ever Devon offers an eclectic mix of properties for all tastes in city, market town, village and rural environments. None are that far from the excellent communications and amenities Devon offers. As the world evolves in a new year and era post Covid-19 it is lifestyle that plays a major part in where people live. Working from home in it’s many forms whenever possible is a great appeal. Minimising travel can only help the sustainability of the planet as we strive to be ever greener.
The trend for putting one’s own mark on a property never ceases to create interest and a classic period village property even more so. Zephyr, Shobrooke Village just 2 miles from Crediton and 8 from Exeter is just such an opportunity. A mid 19th century listed 4 bedroom house with walled garden and former tennis court in the village is a wonderful chance to bring a tired property up to date. An increasingly rare find in a good village. Strutt and Parker (01392 215631).
Hawson Farm, Buckfastleigh on the southern edge of the Dartmoor National Park, offered through Jackson Stops (01392 214222), is a substantial 5 bedroom unlisted stone house sitting in over 8 acres of pasture and woodland with nearby access to the Moor for riding. A converted barn provides additional accommodation in two units creating income potential. Further barns make this a delightful family home to suit varied tastes.
Time will tell as we move into 2022 as to where the property market will settle. In the meantime never lose sight of the value of home as home - the time and memories created outweigh the cold assessment in pure money terms – “It’s all about coming home.”