Cottages to Castles, City, Coast & Country
In my capacity as a property buying agent I travel the many roads of Devon on a regular basis so when we have clear, crisp days with bright blue skies, as we have recently, I am constantly reminded of how fortunate all of us who live here are.
No other county has such a diverse countryside with two very different coastlines, two moors, a port with European ferry destinations, an international airport and by no means least, a thriving Cathedral city that is a match for any café culture retail centre across the country. No matter what age you are or your lifestyle, Devon has the facilities to offer you the best of choices – an excellent range of independent and state schools, sporting facilities, and acres of wild space to escape for those with stressful work lives. With an ever increasing number of large companies moving and evolving throughout the county, it is no wonder the property market has exploded. Planners are receiving significant numbers of applications - in many cases exceeding government directives for new housing numbers.
So where do you choose to live?
Property has become a fascination - even addiction - with many sectors of the population and underpins the economy. Nothing else generates capital, employment and discussions over the dinner table in the same way. In a shrinking world with internet access, fast trains – two hours to London from Exeter – and a well-served road network, you can take your pick of the best locations and properties according to your budget and aspirations...and, again, Devon has an incredibly diverse range to offer. For those wanting highly energy efficient city living, look at the new Holland Park development in Exeter offered through Jackson Stops and Staff. Whilst those looking for the epitome of a Devon thatched cottage in the country, Stags’ Exeter office have a detached cottage with 6.5 acres of orchard and woodland...you can almost smell the scones and clotted cream from the brochure! If a waterside home, or maybe weekend bolthole is what you are after, then Marchand Petit in Dartmouth can sell you Quay Cottage at Dittisham...remember here to take your boat with you to explore the beautiful Dart estuary and experience the Dartmouth Regatta and Food Festivals.
I have been involved in the property market in Devon for over 40 years and have seen it evolve to its 21st century position. Technology has taken us all over and instant access to information is not just expected, it is demanded. I know many clients living in more frenetic circumstances than us crave the Devon lifestyle and the time to soak up those amazing views and enjoy their latte watching the waves lap our shores. I am delighted to have been asked to start this new column in Devon Life and in the coming months I shall explore the many different areas of Devon and the properties particular to those areas, listening to the locals who love their villages and towns. I shall enjoy sharing them with you.
So, what other county offers such an array of scenery, opportunities and diverse range of property from cob cottages in hidden valleys, to castles and everything in between? The choice is yours and, at the end of the day, it’s all about coming home.
Nigel Bishop
Founder and Managing Director of Recoco Property Search