Ancient and Modern
Life choices are dictated by emotions and finances. At times it’s hard to let the latter overrule the first but practicality dictates.
When buying a new home it is an emotional purchase and generally the rule is let the emotion dictate the result. Allowing a purely objective approach to take the lead means home well be just that – a practicality for a period of time.
So many times I have clients who buy a home in a heartbeat. Yes, it’s essential to do the maths but if the heart isn’t in it every negative point will be a reason to question the discussion.
As said in previous columns life dictates where to buy – jobs, schools etc but when a free choice can be made with no essential dictates then the emotional angle takes over so let it. This of course is usually in later life – retirement. That said when choices are so wide it is hard to focus on just what and where to buy. A dream of a beach side home, maybe a rural idyll, a city centre apartment to embrace the arts and culture angle and make new friends – choices, choices!
The biggest choice is whether to buy old or new. Back to practicality or emotion. Is the thatched cottage just a dream that will take time to restore and maintain or is the contemporary sophisticated eco- friendly house just soulless? Inevitably in the end finances influence the answer.
Whatever the final decision ensure due diligence in the buying process. Always seek professional advice via surveyors, solicitors and any specialist recommended for a specific problem and do objectively look into the ongoing maintenance and running costs.
Think ahead ten years and be sure the property will still suit at that point, especially if family dynamics change. Much as I like clients to return to move on to a new home it is an expensive and stressful time to say nothing of the psychological aspect so allow the emotions to speak loudly but listen to the practicality – head over heart!
When buying an old house it can be fun exploring it’s history particularly if it’s a listed building. Fashion has always influenced style. Whilst today the first thing people consider is creating open plan living spaces and ensuite bathrooms whilst earlier generations were more keen to ensure warmth throughout the house. Living standards and styles today are a far cry from the 18th and 19th century. Few people moved house pre World War Two but as the world opened up so did values and expectations in the property market which rapidly became a means of self -improvement and capital enhancement – hence the active property market we see today.
A new home and chapter in life can be exciting – a chance often for new beginnings after a major declutter of a previous home. Looking ahead to creating new memories- home is where they are stimulated: “It’s all about coming home”.
Old or New?
Halsdon House. Dolton. Winkleigh: An elegant country estate with superb facilities, extensive grounds and adaptable buildings – ideal equestrian home.
Meavy Barton. Yelverton: Beautifully refurbished Grade 11* listed farmhouse with extensive outbuildings in idyllic South Dartmoor village.
Leigh Barton. Churchstow. Kingsbridge: An historic former fortifies farmhouse with range of architecturally noted buildings, gatehouse, two cottages. Magical!
Springwood. Totnes: Stunning contemporary family home betwixt Totnes and Dartington – modern efficiency in a rural setting.
Barton Grange. Sandford. Crediton: Bespoke development of five luxury five bedroom highly energy efficient homes in tranquil rural setting.