Why near water?
Over half the survey respondents (55%) said they would like to live near the seaside or the coast. So, what is it about living near water that’s so appealing? There are lots of benefits to living waterside from a health and lifestyle perspective. Water is considered the elixir of life. Studies have found there’s a biological connection between us as humans and water. The sound of it has calming effects. Likewise spending time looking at water is good for our mental wellbeing. And there’s the perception from some that being by the sea or an open source of water offers improved air quality.
Exercise tops the list of most people’s past times and many like to do it by or near water. Whether it’s running, walking or taking part in actual water sports, many prefer a waterside location to keep fit.
Choosing a home waterside
We are blessed in this country with some of the most stunning coastlines and picturesque beaches. They certainly make living by the sea more appealing. But property experts advise that as much as coastal living is the most popular, urban regeneration is bringing more access to water in different ways. New developments forming near docklands or apartments going up across cities near canals, there’s a growing number of options when it comes to choosing a property near water.
That said, and especially for properties with a sea view location, they do come with a premium price tag. Although, as revealed in the survey, there are certain aspects of coastal, waterside living we’d happily pay more for. This could be having direct water access, wondrous open water views or the opportunity to moor and retrieve a boat.
Buying new by the water
The survey also showed the number one style of home most sought after to live in by the sea, is the humble coastal cottage. Much like those you might rent for a holiday by the sea. Other replies included self-build homes as much as something a little quirkier along the lines of a Grand Designs style property.
In terms of new homes, we are seeing a lot of city high rise developments appear close to water and every so often there’s a development of new homes offering waterside living. Here’s some of the new homes next to water we have available, across the country.
The Green, Anstruther, Scotland
Head North across the border for stunning new homes by the sea, in a sought-after coastal location. The Anstruther area of Scotland is scenic, only 20 minutes from St. Andrews and offers new properties from a fantastic starting price of £148,000. Perfect for first-time buyers, those looking to downsize and retire by the sea or to buy as a holiday home.
This is the Kilrenny, a unique, two-bedroom cottage apartment on The Green development. It has a spacious lounge with space for dining and the dual aspect windows allow floods of natural light to flow in. A not-to-be-missed chance to have a home literally on the coast!
Cwm Celyn, Neath Port Talbot
This new development in Neath is perfect for families and first-time buyers, with 2, 3 and 4-bedroom homes available. The development is in the heart of the valley with the River Neath nearby and surrounded by countryside. For those looking for a home close to the coast, this development has Aberavon beach and seafront only a short drive away. While, more practically there are excellent commuter links to Swansea and Cardiff.
Here is Palmerston – a three-bedroom semi-detached house on the development, available from £174,995. It features ample space to the ground floor with an open-plan kitchen/dining area that leads to the rear garden. Only a 5% deposit is needed and Help to Buy – Wales is also available.
Temple Wharf, Strood, Rochester
These apartments in Rochester, Kent from Redrow Homes are not only generous in size, but they also offer an idyllic riverside setting. Located on the edge of Strood and overlooking the River Medway, the new apartments at Temple Wharf are just minutes from the M2 while being equally close to the wide-open spaces of the North Downs. The historic town of Rochester is always a delight, while Medway Valley Leisure Park, which is close to the development is great for a modern way to spend your leisure time. Two, three and four-bedroom homes are available from £264,995.
Showing here is Riverside Court, truly exceptional selection of two-bedroom apartments with riverside views. The master bedroom comes equipped with an en-suite and fitted wardrobes while the second bedroom is a of a very good size for children, guests or to make a home office. But the extra special feature to these homes is at the front, with the open plan living area stretching over thirty feet and a wide balcony to help you enjoy the waterside views.
If waterside living appeals to you and you would like to find out more about new homes available either next to or close to water.
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