savingsspot.co.uk Pembrokeshire, with its stunning coastline, rugged cliffs, and charming villages, is a highly sought-after location for those looking to buy property in Wales. Whether you’re dreaming of a seaside cottage, a sprawling farmhouse, or a modern apartment with sea views, Pembrokeshire offers a diverse range of properties to suit every taste and budget. This guide provides an overview of what to expect when searching for houses for sale in Pembrokeshire.
The Allure of Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire’s appeal lies primarily in its breathtaking natural beauty. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park encompasses miles of pristine beaches, dramatic headlands, and hidden coves. This makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for walking, surfing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves and spending your weekends exploring the coastal path – this is the reality of life in Pembrokeshire.
Popular Locations for Homebuyers
Several towns and villages within Pembrokeshire are particularly popular with homebuyers:
- Tenby: A picturesque harbour town famous for its colourful houses, sandy beaches, and medieval town walls. Tenby offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of shops, restaurants, and pubs.
- Saundersfoot: Another popular seaside resort, Saundersfoot boasts a beautiful harbour, a Blue Flag beach, and a range of amenities. It’s slightly quieter than Tenby, making it ideal for families.
- St Davids: The UK’s smallest city, St Davids is steeped in history and boasts a magnificent cathedral. It’s a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists, offering a unique blend of culture and coastal charm.
- Newport: Located on the Nevern Estuary, Newport is a charming town with a strong sense of community. It’s known for its independent shops, art galleries, and beautiful views.
- Haverfordwest: The county town of Pembrokeshire, Haverfordwest offers a wider range of amenities, including larger supermarkets and department stores. It’s a good option for those who want to be close to facilities while still enjoying easy access to the coast.
- Fishguard: A port town with ferry connections to Ireland, Fishguard offers a more rugged and wild coastal landscape. It’s a good choice for those seeking a quieter pace of life.
Types of Properties Available
Pembrokeshire offers a wide variety of properties, from quaint cottages to grand country estates. You can find:
- Traditional Cottages: Stone-built cottages, often with original features like exposed beams and fireplaces, are common in Pembrokeshire’s villages.
- Farmhouses: For those seeking more space and land, Pembrokeshire offers a range of farmhouses, some with outbuildings and acreage.
- Modern Homes: New developments and modern homes are also available, particularly in and around the larger towns.
- Apartments and Flats: While less common than houses, apartments and flats can be found in towns like Tenby, Saundersfoot, and Haverfordwest, often with sea views.
- Bungalows: Single-story bungalows are a popular choice for retirees and those seeking easy access.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Before purchasing a house in Pembrokeshire, it’s crucial to consider a few key factors:
- Budget: Property prices in Pembrokeshire can vary significantly depending on location, size, and condition. Determine your budget realistically and factor in additional costs like stamp duty, legal fees, and survey costs. It is beneficial to check different websites to compare costs.
- Location: Consider your lifestyle and priorities. Do you want to be close to the beach, in a bustling town, or in a quiet village? Research different areas and visit them if possible.
- Transport Links: Pembrokeshire is relatively rural, so consider transport links if you need to commute for work or travel frequently.
- Schools: If you have children, research the local schools and their catchment areas.
- Broadband Speed: Internet connectivity can vary in rural areas, so check broadband speeds if this is important to you.
- Property Condition: Obtain a thorough survey to identify any potential issues with the property before committing to a purchase.
- Flood Risk: Due to the coastal location, some areas of Pembrokeshire may be at risk of flooding. Check the Environment Agency’s flood maps.
- Second Home Ownership: Be aware that some communities in Pembrokeshire have a high proportion of second homes, which can impact the local community and housing availability.
The Buying Process in Wales
The process of buying a house in Wales is broadly similar to the rest of the UK. Once you’ve found a property you like, you’ll typically:
- Make an offer through the estate agent.
- If your offer is accepted, instruct a solicitor to handle the legal aspects of the purchase.
- Arrange a mortgage if required.
- Your solicitor will carry out searches and enquiries.
- Once all enquiries are satisfactory, you’ll exchange contracts, making the purchase legally binding.
- On completion day, the funds will be transferred, and you’ll receive the keys to your new home.
Making Pembrokeshire Your Home
Buying a house in Pembrokeshire is more than just acquiring a property; it’s about embracing a lifestyle. With its stunning scenery, friendly communities, and relaxed pace of life, Pembrokeshire offers a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city living and enjoy the best of coastal Wales. Whether you are looking for full time relocation, retirement location or a holiday home, the county has an option for everyone. Taking your time to fully research the area and your requirements is important to ensure that the property you do choose is correct.
