Flying High
2016 was a momentous year with unexpected results in the UK and the USA signalling a call for change, for new regimes politically, socially and economically.
At grass roots level here in Devon such changes are perhaps hard to assimilate and assess the impact. Daily life in the county is good -the sun shines (mostly!) and the draw to such a beautiful place becomes ever more attractive, whether as a total lifestyle move or to escape the city life whenever possible. But don’t think Devon is behind the times in any way at all -we embrace modern technology and lifestyles whilst enjoying the amazing country and coastal scenery all around us. The vibrant café culture of Exeter is embraced by the business community which has international connections, whilst the National Parks and South West Coast Path offer the ultimate escape.
With growing demand from London escapees the lack of larger country property ensures vendors have a strong investment when selling. Agents are increasingly addressing modern technology in marketing high end properties attracting buyers from around the globe and appealing to the continual draw from London and the South East. Drones enable a flying view of a property and 2 and 3D internal tours are creating a virtual live tour. Strutt and Parker (01392 215631) are selling St. Milburgas Oratory in Bigbury which can be seen https://vimeo.com/181493646. I still recommend visiting any property to really get the feel – no technology will ever replace the gut instinct when it comes buying. Buy with the heart first and then do the maths!
Award winning local developer, Heritage, continue the successful theme of eco friendly new homes with developments in Topsham and Rockbeare offered by Jackson Stops and Staff (01392 214222) For those with the stomach for a serious project Atlantis, overlooking Croyde Bay offers an amazing opportunity to create a stunning waterfront Grand Designs home (Knight Frank 01392 423111) whilst in East Devon Southlands Farm (Humberts 01404 42456) in Dunkeswell is the epitome of a thatched farmhouse with cottage to create an income, paddocks, tennis court -the perfect home to bring up a young family in stunning countryside yet accessible to all the road, rail and air networks Devon offers .
Whatever one’s needs and tastes the county can deliver an eclectic offering of property to suit all pockets and lifestyles. No longer is distance an issue- we have the technology to work remotely and still be part of the mainstream business world -having your cake (or scones and cream for which Devon is famous ) and eating it you might say -but that’s another story.
The recent sad demise of The Royal Clarence Hotel in Cathedral Yard, Exeter marked the end of an era- it will be rebuilt for future generations of all Devon Families, present and future who embrace the spectacular opportunities living in Devon offers -a home in a special place - It’s all about coming home”.