Gateways

First impressions often dictate the purchase of a property. Arriving at the gateway there is a two second window that instils an instant reaction. The analytical process comes later. I have many times been with clients who fall in love with a house before they set foot over the threshold and then have rose tinted glasses looking past all the deficits beyond. Admittedly today so much can be learnt from the internet portals, drone videos and other marketing material used by selling agents but nothing replaces “feeling” the property in person.  

A wicker garden gate, imposing electric gates, ramshackle farm field gate - they all give the clue as to what lies behind.  All have their appeal and relate to lifestyle so no one fix is right.  As with the garden or entrance gates the front door is equally important in psychological terms -stepping over the threshold - the expectation of what the house is like – does it resonate with your expectations? 

As ever location is vital when buying a property to suit your lifestyle needs.  As essential needs change and your time is your own you can choose a house for its own merits. Do always remember what is still important however - links to family, accessibility to the golf course maybe(?), and other daily factors that make a house a home.   

Coombe End Daccombe Newton Abbot. A charming attached, Grade 11 thatched cottage with stunning gardens - a plantsman’s paradise.  Excellent 4 bedroom character home less than two miles from the sea in favoured village.  Enchanting, thatched driveway entrance: Savills 01392 455755  www.savills.com 

Burrough Cleave Sandford Crediton. A large, handsome house sitting in 28.5 acres of pasture, woodland with lake and great rural views across Mid Devon approached through gated entrance and long private drive.  Excellent family and entertaining reception rooms. Large kitchen/ breakfast room, 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Stabling, workshops and large multi- purpose outbuilding.  Strutt and Parker 01392 215631 www.struttandparker.com 

Collacott South Milton Kingsbridge – deep in the South Hams just a mile from South Milton beach and renowned beach café.   Possibly the oldest house in the village and once a village school. Immense character Grade 11 cottage with charming accommodation -Sitting Room. Kitchen/ dining room with Aga, 3 bedrooms plus separate office ideal for use as an annexe.  A chance to buy a bit of history. Harriet George 01548 856992  www.harrrietgeorge.co.uk 


 The property market has been buoyant in the last two years and remains so as I write. Finding that special house is more of a challenge with demand exceeding supply so when you find the right gateway or door don’t hesitate and walk in - “It’s all about coming home.” 

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The Town House