It’s easy to see why so many people dream of living by the sea.
Whether it’s a morning walk along the beach, watching the sunset over the water, or simply enjoying the slower pace of life that coastal towns seem to offer, Devon’s coastline continues to attract buyers from across the country.
From the colourful cottages of Appledore and the sailing culture of Salcombe to the Regency charm of Sidmouth and the bustling waterfront of Exmouth, there is no shortage of beautiful places to call home.
But while coastal living certainly has its appeal, it’s worth asking whether there are any hidden costs that buyers should consider before making the move.
As local agents, we’ve spoken to plenty of buyers over the years who have fallen in love with the lifestyle. Most would never look back. However, it’s always sensible to understand both the advantages and the practical realities before committing to a coastal property.
The Lifestyle That Everyone Wants
Let’s start with the obvious.
Living near the coast can have a huge impact on quality of life. Many people relocating to Devon are looking for exactly that balance between work, family life and leisure that coastal living provides.
Being close to beaches, coastal walks, water sports and open countryside creates a lifestyle that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere. It’s no surprise that many buyers moving from larger cities place proximity to the coast high on their wish list.
The rise of flexible and hybrid working has only accelerated this trend. People no longer need to be within commuting distance of major cities five days a week, which means locations that were once considered holiday destinations are increasingly becoming permanent homes.
Coastal Properties Continue to Hold Their Appeal
Despite wider market fluctuations, coastal homes often remain highly desirable.
Properties with sea views, waterfront locations or easy access to beaches can attract strong demand and often command a premium compared to similar homes further inland.
This is particularly noticeable in some of Devon’s most sought-after locations, where demand from both local buyers and those relocating from elsewhere in the UK remains consistently strong.
Of course, every market is different, but there is little doubt that the lifestyle associated with coastal living continues to be a significant driver of buyer interest.
The Reality of Coastal Property Maintenance
While sea views are wonderful, the sea air itself can be less kind to buildings.
Salt carried in coastal winds can accelerate wear and tear on external materials, particularly metal fixtures, windows, gates and vehicles. Properties close to the shoreline often require more frequent maintenance than equivalent homes further inland.
Paintwork may need refreshing more regularly, external fittings can corrode faster, and homeowners may find themselves keeping a closer eye on roofs, render and exposed timber.
This isn’t necessarily a reason to avoid coastal property. It’s simply something that buyers should budget for and understand from the outset.
Insurance and Environmental Considerations
Another factor worth considering is insurance.
Depending on a property’s location, insurers may take into account factors such as flooding risk, coastal erosion or storm exposure. While many coastal homes are unaffected, it is always sensible to investigate insurance options before proceeding with a purchase.
Today’s buyers are generally more aware of environmental considerations than ever before, and questions around flood risk and long-term resilience are becoming increasingly common during the buying process.
The good news is that much of Devon’s coastline benefits from significant investment in coastal management and flood defence measures, but carrying out proper due diligence remains important for any purchase.
The Seasonal Nature of Some Coastal Communities
One aspect that can surprise newcomers is how much some coastal towns change throughout the year.
During the summer months, many seaside locations come alive with visitors, events and activity. Restaurants are busy, beaches are full and there is a real sense of energy.
In the quieter winter months, the atmosphere can be very different. Some businesses may operate reduced hours, visitor numbers drop considerably and communities return to a slower pace.
For many residents, this seasonal rhythm is actually one of the things they love most about coastal living. However, it’s worth visiting an area at different times of year before deciding where to buy.
So, Is Coastal Living Worth It?
For most people, the answer is a resounding yes.
The lifestyle benefits, natural beauty and sense of wellbeing that come with living near the coast are difficult to put a price on. Devon’s coastline remains one of the county’s greatest attractions, and it’s easy to understand why so many buyers continue to prioritise seaside locations.
That said, every property purchase should be approached with open eyes. Understanding maintenance requirements, insurance considerations and the realities of year-round coastal life will help ensure there are no surprises after moving in.
For those prepared for the practicalities, coastal living in Devon can be every bit as rewarding as the dream suggests.
And on a sunny evening, when you’re sitting outside watching the sea, it’s fair to say most homeowners feel the benefits far outweigh the costs.
