17Dec 2014

London is one of the most expensive locations to buy and rent housing in the UK. However, it’s also one of the most affluent in terms of jobs and this, combined with its fashionable, trendy reputation and quirky character, makes it a popular area to move to. Although it’s unlikely you’ll find a one bedroom flat to rent for under £1000, if your budget is a little higher, hunting around, keeping your options open and being willing to compromise, you should be able to find the right home for you.1 – Make a list of deal-breakersFirstly, make sure you note down what you want from your new property. Put each point in order of importance and research how likely it is that you’ll get them. You may want to live near a particular underground station or a particular area of London; you may want a spare bedroom for friends and family to stay in or you may want an open plan living room. Make sure you note which ones you’re unwilling to compromise on when moving house. 2 – Be a realistLondon is expensive and finding the same quality of home as elsewhere in the country for the same price is highly unlikely. It’s therefore wise to keep your head screwed on and realise that you’re probably going to have to sacrifice quality or downsize. For some, it may be worth moving to one of the Home Counties just outside of London and getting a slightly cheaper deal. However, for those who are savvy with London prices and willing to accept what you can get, moving house to the capital can be a great experience. Look into London removal companies in advance to get an idea of how much this will cost you.3 – Be willing to compromiseCompromising is a huge part of moving home, especially in an expensive city like London. On your moving checklist of requirements and deal-breakers, put a note next to the ones you’re willing to be flexible on in order to get others. For example, a large bedroom may be a non-negotiable aspect for you, whereas you may like an outdoor area, but it’s not imperative. It’s unlikely you’ll find everything you want in one perfect apartment so being flexible is important while hunting.Compromising on price is also something you may need to consider. Paying £100-200 more a month for an extra bedroom might be something you can stretch to. Working out the maximum price you’re willing to reach beforehand will stop you from getting carried away while negotiating. Landlord and estate agents can be incredibly convincing, so if you have a hard sum you’re unwilling to waver from, this will help you stand a little firmer.4 – ResearchDo your research and know the area you’re moving to. Are the transport links good? How long will it take you to get to work? How’s the transport home after midnight? Which shops are nearby? All these not only contribute to your quality of life while living there, but possibly price. Rental prices differ across London, and merely looking at houses in a street minute away can affect the cost. It’s worth researching this beforehand.5 – Look aroundDon’t necessarily settle for the first property you view. There’s plenty out there which may fit the bill and allowing yourself adequate time to view other properties will give you a better idea of what’s available, as well as let you modify what you’re looking for. The more you realise what your money may get you, the more edits you can make to your moving list and the sooner you can start to visualize your future home.