Spring is traditionally one of the most active periods in the property calendar, but this year the market is being shaped as much by wider events as by the season itself. Ongoing conflict in the Middle East and Ukraine, concerns around inflation, volatility in the mortgage market, and rising fuel and energy costs have all led buyers and sellers alike to take a more considered approach. Even so, the South Hams continues to stand apart as a market with lasting appeal. Its coastline, countryside and quality of life mean it remains a place buyers are consistently drawn to and, when the wider world feels less certain, it is only natural that the appeal of somewhere offering peace, a sense of reassurance and the restorative qualities of the sea, moor and countryside becomes even stronger.
At the same time, realism remains important against the wider backdrop. With a greater choice of property available, buyers are more discerning on value, condition and running costs, and careful pricing and presentation have become increasingly important in setting a property apart from competing homes. Well-maintained, thoughtfully prepared homes and newer properties with lower running costs are continuing to attract the strongest interest. This is particularly evident in the new-build market, where lower running costs and modern efficiency continue to resonate strongly with buyers, which is why we have included some of our latest available new-build properties in this month’s newsletter. For buyers, this changing market brings greater choice. However, when a well-priced property in a strong location comes to the market, demand can still be immediate, so having your own property on the market and a buyer in place puts you in the strongest position to move quickly when the right home becomes available.
For owners of homes requiring updating or improvement, expert advice is especially important. The cost of carrying out renovations, home improvements and full rebuilds has increased significantly in recent years, and that is having a clear impact on this part of the market. Even so, there is still good demand for houses with scope to improve, particularly where they are launched with the right strategy from the outset. The method of sale and overall marketing approach can make a significant difference, and our auction service for these properties is proving increasingly popular with sellers looking for greater certainty, a defined timescale and less risk of delay through renegotiation, survey issues or a protracted conveyancing process. For buyers, this can also provide a clear and transparent route to securing a property, particularly for those looking to avoid drawn-out negotiations, abortive purchase costs caused by chain breaks, survey or conveyancing issues, or the uncertainty of dealing with an uncommitted seller.
For sellers, this is a market where experienced advice on presentation, positioning and strategy can make all the difference in achieving the very best sale price and the strongest buyer. For buyers, with fresh spring stock coming to the market and homes being launched at market-appropriate levels, there is real opportunity to secure the right home. Whether you are preparing to sell or actively looking for your next home, now is the time to start the conversation with your local Marchand Petit office. Some properties will not yet be visible on Rightmove at this stage, and an early conversation allows us to understand what you are looking for and, where appropriate, arrange viewings on homes preparing to launch to the spring market. In this month’s newsletter, we bring together practical selling advice, a selection of new homes currently available, our Property of the Month, and a guide to Easter in the South Hams, offering both useful market insight and a snapshot of the lifestyle that continues to draw buyers to the area.
If you are considering a move this spring, or simply want a clearer understanding of your position in the current market, we would be delighted to assist. Whether you are buying, selling, or exploring your options, contact your local Marchand Petit office for a confidential, no-obligation conversation. With experienced guidance and a tailored approach, we can help you make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.
Written by Claire Northmore, Director of Marchand Petit, based at our Newton Ferrers Office.