A Year End – a New Year
Is it just me or has 2022 flown by quicker than any other? Christmas is upon us – a time to pause and reflect on the year’s events and plan the next year. 2022 has seem some of the biggest changes in a lifetime – the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth 11 and the accession of King Charles 111 – a tumultuous year in politics - and the signs of a realignment in the property market.
Following the Covid epidemic creating a massive surge in the property market in rural and coastal areas a sense of retrenching and affordability is setting the trend for a calmer period – at least that is my opinion.
Despite the instant world of everything on line and digitalised when it comes to selling and buying a house the timeframe is often longer than in the days pre internet. Compliance at every stage is onerous for the naïve and the cost of moving is always in excess of the budget! The key is to plan ahead.
Upsizing, downsizing, second home investment - life and our budgets dictate the moves. As Lord Robert Baden Powell dictated- “Be Prepared”. Take time and be thorough with research that the property you like really ticks the boxes – always have a survey to establish any ongoing remedial works to budget for and ensure the location offers all the amenities you require.
Devon fortunately offers a vast array of opportunities that should fit most requirements whether for first time buyers, a growing family, retirement or investment into the holiday letting business. You could say a county of many colours for all seasons and people.
Christmas in the City or by the sea – a couple of ideas:
Exeter City: overlooking Cathedral Green to the west door of the cathedral – the perfect venue to enjoy the Christmas buzz. A stunning three bedroom penthouse apartment with roof terrace. An easy trip down the stairs to The Ivy restaurant on the ground floor and Christmas is sorted! Wilkinson Grant 01392 427500.
Salcombe: 3 Stonehanger Court. Set high above the estuary with stunning views yet a walk down to the town to enjoy the festivities: a three double bedroom apartment with garage and parking – essential in Salcombe - the perfect place to relax over Christmas and the New Year and then come back in the summer to partake of the sailing. Luscombe Maye 01548 845090.
So Happy Christmas - enjoy the break and if considering moving in 2023 make sure you have a clear plan with finances in order and think long term of the personal value of enjoying what you buy to make home – it’s not always just about the money - “It’s all about coming home.”