Trains!

Trains! I hear you ask what trains have to do with property or am I suggesting you live in one? Well you can, but I doubt you want to.

Living in an ever -faster world we are always needing to get somewhere. Communication is vital whether it is virtual or real. Virtual is easy -which app and screen do we use? Real is harder. Parking is ever harder. Cars are essential for country living but for longer distance and city living the train offers convenience. 

So, for commuters, day trippers, holiday travellers and business trips the train can take the strain. London properties are valued by the distance in minutes from the nearest tube station.  The nearer the connection the higher the price.  In Devon we work in miles (kilometres if you insist) and how near to a main line station.  Whilst essential to some for business, the Paddington to Penzance line through the South Hams is questionably unrivalled for its scenic beauty travelling along the coast -connecting coast and country to city, connecting Devon’s two cities, Exeter and Plymouth and beyond.

Property within easy access to the stations has an increasing appeal.  City bonuses may be long forgotten but city salaries are appealing nevertheless. It is possible to almost have it all.  Technology allows many to work from home travelling to London and major cities just part of the week bringing counties like Devon into the sights of buyers. But closer to home, a commute along the Barnstaple to Exeter line can only be pleasurable as with the Exmouth to Exeter line. Arriving at Queen Street Station, in the centre of Exeter, so a short walk to offices, shops and restaurants. No car parking fees or traffic jams. 

Jackson Stops (01392 214222) are selling West Dockworthy near Chulmleigh. A delightful, period residence in 16 acres with barns and outbuildings, yet a short drive to Eggesford Station. A country retreat in glorious Mid Devon countryside with mainline connections. 

Live by the sea! Exmouth offers seaside living with the train into Exeter. Work in the city, supper on the beach -a Londoner’s dream! W2 Estates (01395 271800) are selling 160 Hulham Road. A detached three bedroom chalet house in a favoured residential area with views towards the estuary -a good family house near the high achieving Exmouth College.

Baltic Wharf - St. Peter’s Quay ,Totnes is a new development by Bloor Homes, close to the waterside.  Stags are the selling agents (01803 865454). Of interest to people looking for modern living, second home owners, families and retirement, close to the town facilities and not too far to the station with a direct train to Paddington -perfect for travelling further afield. Totnes is a thriving town famed for its artisan and independent shops and close to the South Devon Coast.

Let’s not forget Exeter airport taking you to London City in an hour or so! But that’s another story. For me it’s the homeward journey that counts “it’s all about coming home”.