The Lure Of The Water
As an island race it is perhaps inevitable we have a natural affinity and attraction to water - it does surround us! Since Victorian times when transport became available to the greater population with the arrival of trains the lure of the coast turned remote fishing villages into sought after resorts. Whilst this has altered the dynamic of the areas it has also brought employment and infrastructure to otherwise insular locations. Fast forward to the 21st century and a whole new wealth with second homes being not just a place of escape but an investment. However – as with any investment capital can not only increase but decrease as wider influences affect them. The current economic climate post Covid 2020 has seen a shift in values which stalled the property market in 2024 but is showing signs of regeneration in 2025.
So, with hard earned savings and maybe some top up funding, where is it best to buy. This, in my opinion, comes down to individual requirements and what is expected from a second home. Must it pay for itself by a rental return or can it be self- sustainable for your own use? If the latter and to gain the most benefit think of both the immediate locality and what it offers and the distance from your home in travelling time. Also, remember if a growing family is relevant what toddlers require is a bucket and spade beach whilst teenagers need activity and social environments. Think ahead to ensure maximum benefit from the investment.
Water orientated properties always win the day. This is where Devon outshines many counties. It is both accessible by road, rail and air – and water! There are diverse options coastal wise - sailing in the south, surfing in the north and many rivers offering water sports and excellent fishing. All are never that far from a local market town or the Cathedral city of Exeter if a spot of retail therapy is needed – or maybe foraging through the amazing farmers markets and farm shops.
It has become increasingly expensive to purchase any property with the hidden costs covering the legal aspect, Stamp Duty, moving etc, so it’s vital to research every angle of both the locality and the property itself ensuring it will prove the right choice. Buy with emotion but be objective in your analysis ensuring it really will pass the test of time for you.
The lure of Devon as a second home destination often transcends into a full move when retirement looms or a job opportunity is tempting. A big step in anyone’s life but making a home in such a beautiful county is hard to beat: “It’s all about coming home”.
A varied selection of waterfront homes:
Clifton Court, Putsborough: 2 and 3 bedroom apartments in notable building with expansive views across Putsbrough Sands to Baggy Point and Lundy Island.
Driftwood Cottage, Totnes: modern 2 bedroom waterside home overlooking River Dart to Vire Island within walking distance of town centre. Ideal retirement property.
Smugglers Cottage, Dittisham: “Swallows and Amazon” retreat on the banks of River Dart, with mooring and boat house. A dream opportunity.
The Mount, Seaton: Period residence of classic proportions with spectacular sea and coastal views over Lyme Bay and Jurassic Coast.
Stentaway House, Croyde: Imposing, contemporary house with wide sea views in favoured coastal village.