New-build coastal properties: affordable seaside homes With spring in the air, the prospect of owning a home on Britain's coast has rarely seemed more attractive. But seaside living can be costly in an old property, which needs constant work because of weather fatigue, too much sea salt and corroding metalwork. An easier solution may be to try new-build. Britain's canny developers have found the best remaining coastal sites for apartments and houses. Here are our top 10 destinations. 1 Salcombe, Devon This fishing and crabbing port has 2,000 residents, including music diva Kate Bush. It has fantastic sailing, lively shops and restaurants with a real buzz, plus close proximity to some of Britain's most beautiful countryside. Salcombe's necklace of sandy beaches is the main summer attraction, but out of season it's just as special and preferred by many. Beaches are less crowded, and it's easier to walk up the high street," says Jane Summers of Marchand Petit estate agency. Salcombe Heights has 13 four and five-bedroom water view houses. £1.15m to £1.15m through Marchand Petit, 01548 844473; marchandpetit.co.uk.