Cosy Cottage Fireside Winters
As the days draw in and the leaves start turning we inevitably think of ensuring we are warm for the coming winter months. Recalling the woodland folks from Brambly Hedge stories whilst we don’t hibernate there is an inkling to do so when the weather turns cold and wet!
In the days of solar energy, eco sustainable homes the romantic fireside element has gone from homes but that is perhaps good for the household economy and the future of the planet.
However – Devon still has many a traditional home where the cosiness of a wood burner and a thatched roof create “The Holiday” atmosphere envied by many.
It is no secret a thatched roof requires continual maintenance and will cost more for insurance but has an aesthetic value that is priceless. There is no comparison to living in a period property enriched in history where the lives of past occupants have left their mark. Subject to complying with any planning and listed building approval it is possible to mix the character of a period property with the amenities of 21st century technology, thereby enjoying the best of all worlds.
Looking after a thatched roof requires regular maintenance which ensure longevity and is cost effective. Most new thatch is water reed, usually imported from middle European counties and with care can last up to forty years. It is vital all fire precautions are observed, chimneys are lined and the roof space protected. Many a fire in the past has started from within the building where a spark from an unlined chimney flue has seeped through into the roof space where the underside of the thatch is tinder dry and within seconds the thatch and often the whole house is lost. Insurance companies today will only cover thatched properties where all regulations are met.
Do you pay a premium for a listed, thatched property? As with any property there are numerous factors to take into account when assessing an objective value of a property. Location is perhaps the prime value followed by the size and style as what is offered with it – ancillary accommodation, gardens and land and the one that is a definite personal calculation - the potential for a buyer to see improvements. Buyer beware: improvements to a personal taste may not appeal to future buyers and can detract from the value. Obtaining independent professional advice before buying any property is important but vital when buying an old property – don’t judge a book by it’s cover.
Homes are an emotional, personal purchase – something in which to build life memories- so style and location are entirely individual – home: “It’s all about coming home”.
Some Devon thatched houses:
Burrow Fam, Drewsteignton: Beautifully refurbished thatched farmhouse and detached cottage with good outbuildings set in 14 or 44 acres on edge of Dartmoor National Park.
Baldash Cottage, Branscombe: Exceptional period, thatched farmhouse and detached holiday cottage, 11 acres glorious gardens and grounds in outstanding country setting
Barns Cottage, Stoodleigh: Enchanting listed thatched cottage in popular Exe Valley village with secluded gardens – epitome of a Devon cottage.
Higher Stiniel, Chagford: Fantastic country home in Dartmoor hamlet, tastefully restored with party barn, thatched barn and up to 15 acres including 2,000 newly planted native trees – rural living at its best.
Blacklake Farm, Ottery St. Mary: Delightful Grade 11 listed farmhouse and cottage and “model farm” in tranquil rural East Devon setting offered with up to 57 acres organic land. Unique opportunity to acquire a genuine Devon holding.