Futurist T Ray Has Noted a Change in the North Devon Property Market's Expectations by the Jacksons Moving into the Area

Bideford, Devon, UK (PRWEB) July 11, 2008 -- A new sense of optimism has been brought to the North Devon Housing Market by the much lauded news that the Jacksons have rented a property, for a reality show, in Appledore. Million pound houses are selling well and the four to five hundred pound price range is confident with only the 'horse trading' part of the price being removed.

Television shows have certainly made people both more discerning and, importantly, confident in negotiating prices down to a realistic level. The news that is ancient to those who have been in the business a long time is now, new news for younger buyers. That is, something is only worth what you can get for it. So negotiate, negotiate, and negotiate. Too many people give up at the first hurdle instead of persisting.

Property wise investors are looking for high quality housing in the many secluded and safe areas of North Devon. The market looks positive as the influx of 'buy to let' investors, buoyed on by the promise of higher rents, make their annual migration to North Devon in late August.

Prices relative to the London area and the Home Counties are still ridiculously low and for the cost of a one bedroom flat it is possible to acquire a 4 bedroom 2000 square foot house which is set back, down a drive, entered by a country style gate and set within half an acre, has a large parking area and is a perfect place for children and pets to play

The surrounding areas are superb for walks in these tranquil hamlets which are often set in fields and woodlands. There are still several properties set in safe and beautiful parts of North Devon, which is famous for its stunning views.

Lack lustre marketing and old style websites with only a few poor quality pictures, and no videos, means properties are selling below their true value. The writer has yet to meet or hear of estate agents that have, and use, selling skills that are associated with computer companies and contract sales in the real world. Customer profiling, determining a customer requirements and interpreting them are rare. Professional follow ups and presentation of carefully laid out proposals are like hen's teeth.

It is essential that the purchaser ensures the levels of insulation and workmanship etc are high. The farmhouse used as an example, Little Weare Manor, has very low heating requirements, such that a family watching television in a 450 square foot extension keep the room warm in the depths of winter without additional heating. One year after construction there are no cracks either inside or outside. This is the quality to look for!

Beware of HIPS! One would assume that HIPS would validate the standards of such insulation. In the writer's opinion it would be better to use the forms to light the fire. For example if a house is so well insulated that it doesn't require central heating then HIPS will deem it to be of a poor standard, because HIPS will say it needs storage radiators if there is no central heating. Someone seems to have forgotten about sustainability and wood burning stoves.

Anyone considering buying a house should never rely on either HIPS or the man from the building society, but use a fully qualified property surveyor who will save a great deal of heart ache, if the property is in fact a money pit. Always ask the property owner if they have already had a survey done, and can they show it. If the survey is within the last few years it will be a good indicator of the quality of the house. Then get your own survey done in case it is a cut n paste job!

Comments on the property used as an example...

Whilst the purchase price has risen a little since the 18th century, a copy of an early receipt of £1.oo for the annual rental of this property is still available for view. If you want to read more go to the agent's site for details of Little Weare Manor... click on this link: Little Weare Manor (http://212.50.188.107/cgi-win/vebra.cgi?details1?src=agent&PropertyCode=1581003/LITTL/12545/3).

Our sponsors www.tridi.com are designers of this and several adjacent properties.

###