East Devon
Devon is the second largest county in England and is divided into distinct sections with the major road network defining them. Travelling from London the A303 becomes the A30 a few miles east of the market town of Honiton. Famous for lace making in times past, and a preserved way of life epitomising Devon where agriculture underpins the economy. Honiton Agricultural Show, held every August, draws the farming community together as it has done for generations, coming in from the Blackdown Hills to the north and the stunning countryside running down to the Jurassic coastline to the south. East Devon is one of the more affluent areas within the county, partly due to it’s location – good road and rail connections (the Waterloo line), Exeter international airport and is noted to have one of the best climates in the country.
Property prices tend to be a little higher than in some parts of Devon. It is recognisable for its mellow flint cottages and farmhouses that now merge with new homes making thriving villages and active communities. The local authorities are ensuring these developments provide housing for all income brackets and ages. The coastline, as ever, attracts people of all ages, from the fishing village of Beer to Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton, and Exmouth and the estuary village of Lympstone (recently voted one of the best villages in the country to live) along with Exeter itself. Each town has its own character where long standing inhabitants will all say the one they live in is the best –and why wouldn’t they?! Each has its own appeal and are as varied as the people themselves.
As a Buying Agent one fixed criteria I am often asked to fulfil is a view - country, waterside (or both). Pin Hill Farm high above Sidbury ticks this box with an amazing view down the Sid Valley to the sea in the distance. It comes with 105 acres in two lots. Details from Strutt and Parker 01392 215631. In Exmouth, the marina development still has a few apartments available from where you can watch the antics of sailors, kite surfers and the constant bustle of a busy seaside town. For those wanting a quieter pace Blue Cedar Homes are offering a second phase of high quality homes for retirement in Budleigh Salterton –Palmers Whitton Laing 01395 445600 are the selling agents.
Let’s not forget the idyllic thatched village house –the dream of many a city dweller- achievable financially swapping a London flat for this lifestyle. Humberts, 01404 42456, are offering Woodmans Stoup in Colyford and for those whose income is generated from agriculture Greenslade Taylor Hunt, 01404 46222, have a great opportunity to live in a new property with a few acres –Holly Tree Farm at Northleigh.
So back to that view: recent clients provided me with a brief: “a stunning sea and coastline view where a zero carbon, sustainable home could be built –a lifetime dream from where to enjoy retirement.” A tall order and long search resulted in acquiring a headland property with amazing coastal views and a 1930s house. The German timber house builder Baufritz were engaged to gain planning to replace the existing house and construct this bespoke house. For information on these houses contact Baufritz: enquiries@baufritz.co.uk, 01223 235632, and see website www.baufritz.co.uk. As I write the dream has become reality so yet again the story line is – it’s all about coming home.
Nigel Bishop
Founder & Managing Director of Recoco Property Search