The Year End
December- short, dark days but lit up by cheery faces and bright lights in expectation of Christmas – a time for celebration, closely followed by New Year -a time for both reflection and looking forward.
For a while the property market has been overshadowed by political and economic turbulence but confidence is growing and life moves forward regardless. Waiting for a long term settled stage is fruitless. Life itself moves forward and those with confidence grip opportunities and reap the benefit. Many properties have changed hands in the last few years without high profile marketing so there is a quiet stimulation of the property market that will inevitably harden prices. So, as 2020 dawns it will be a good time to make the move you have held back on.
Back to Christmas. Thankfully Father Christmas still brings some magic to the scene and cards themselves depict Victorian scenes with families around roaring fires. Eco friendly, sustainable housing and a minimalist modern life style often eliminates fires in a house but those fortunate enough to still enjoy a log fire are the envy of many. And how do you explain to expectant children Father Christmas will still visit despite the lack of a chimney?
Chimneys: Whilst an essential part of the structure of homes prior to central heating they are also a key architectural feature defining style and periods. The Georgian and Victorians loved ornate fireplaces and chimney pots themselves. Many grand houses have a plethora of chimney pots. Whilst the days of sending young boys up the chimney to clean them are over hopefully Father Christmas can still descend when necessary !
Gorwyn House, Cheriton Bishop, offered by Strutt and Parker (01392 215631) is a classic thatched farmhouse, believed to be a 15th century hall house and now providing comfortable 6 bedroom accommodation standing in nearly six acres. Classic period features have been retained but enhanced by modern amenities.
Kiln Orchard, Ipplepen - just six miles from Totnes is the total opposite. A 4,000 sq.ft. contemporary home again in six acres of garden, orchard and paddock. Spacious, open plan accommodation with four bedrooms (two en suite) make the perfect home for a busy family. The central focal point is the stone former kiln housing a woodburner -an interesting feature and unique combination. Marchnd Petit are the agents: (01548 857588)
On a much smaller scale but with great charm is Tryst Cottage, Dittisham. A beautifully restored cottage. Looks are definitely deceiving here as you would not expect a large garden and garaging with a terraced cottage. The three bedroom cottage boasts an inglenook fireplace with wood burner, kitchen with electric Aga and dining room opening on to terraces leading to the garden. Marchand Petit in Dartmouth have the details (01803 839190)
So enjoy Christmas, with or without Father Christmas, reflect on 2019 and look ahead to a new decade -the 1920s were classed the Roaring 20s - the 2020s should take us to new beginnings and make sure home is one of them - “it’s all about coming home”.