A cliffside home in Sidmouth, Devon, valued at over £1 million, failed to sell at auction for its reservation price of £250,000. The property, once listed for £695,000 in 2011, is now situated approximately 40 feet from a 120-meter precipice following a significant cliff fall in 2024.
The three-bedroom thatched cottage, described as offering "some of the finest panoramic sea and coastal views" along the Jurassic coastline, has been impacted by ongoing coastal erosion. The listing acknowledged that the property experienced a cliff fall within its garden boundary, reducing its size and bringing it perilously close to the edge. A full cliff survey was available within the legal pack for potential buyers.
The home, originally designed for novelist R.F. Delderfield in the 1960s, features a distinctive circular design intended to maximize natural light and coastal vistas. The property includes mature landscaped gardens, terraces, and a garage with extensive driveway parking.
Despite its unique position and scenic views, the risk of further erosion and cliff collapse has significantly impacted its market value. The coastline in the area is characterized by soft, unstable red sandstone, which is prone to unpredictable collapses. Recent years have seen numerous cliff falls, leading to the closure of nearby beaches.
The property went up for auction on July 21 with a guide price of £250,000. Three bidders participated, with the highest offer reaching £249,000, falling short of the reservation price. It is understood that the owner may seek offers privately or consider relisting the property for auction at a later date. The home's normal market value is estimated to be between £1.1 and £1.6 million.