Deciding where you want to live and buy a home is an important decision to make. Sometimes the place you choose to live is just as much of a priority as the house itself.
Thinking about what is important to you and what essentials you need to fit with your lifestyle is a good place to start so that you can start viewing properties. We have put together a list of things to consider and help narrow down your search when finding the right place to live for you.
School catchment and reputation
If you have children or are planning to in the future then researching the local schools and catchment areas is a good place to start. Schools that have a good reputation tend to have higher property prices as they are more desirable for families. Ask the schools about their catchment area so that you know what areas to consider moving to if this is high priority.
Crime rates
Researching the crime rates can help you learn more about the safety in the place you are considering moving to. If you are unsure of the crime rates, you can search for crime maps and find performance data for local police force.
Flood risks
Checking the risk of flooding in the area you are thinking about moving to can be worthwhile. Floodplains can extend kilometres inland, due to the geography of the local area. This can be checked on the UK government’s flood maps.
Traffic and commuting
Check whether there are good transport links nearby and find out how long the commute to your place of work is. Remember to factor in the local traffic, areas near city centres and motorways are often more congested. You can visit the local area during peak times to find out what the traffic is like. It will give you an idea what to expect if you move to the area.
Local amenities
What are some essential amenities you need to be near to? Thinking about your lifestyle requirements and your everyday routine can help you narrow down your search. If you like to keep fit, you might prefer to live near a gym or if you have children, parks or play centres could be convenient. Being close to shops and good transport links are other common priorities.
Friends and family
Living close to family and friends can be important for some people. If you spend the weekends with your family or socialising with friends, choosing a place that is a short distance from them might be a priority.
Environment
Do you prefer the inner city with the local bars and shops on your doorstep? Maybe your dream is to live in the countryside but be close to the city? Or you want the best of both worlds so you’re close to the city centre but only a short drive from quiet parks? Choosing what type of environment you want to live in will narrow down your search.
Affordability
House prices can differ depending on the area. When searching for a place to buy, have a look at what you can afford and what the typical house price is for your desired area. You might have to compromise on the property if it’s more important for you to live in an area you love.
Find out more about our Mortgage Advice service in York