Buying A London House That Fits Working Parents
If you are a working parent and your partner/ husband/ wife works as well, what could your priorities potentially be when you are searching for a London house to call home?
In no particular order of importance, these are some things to consider:
1. Health
Living a healthy lifestyle is usually near the top of the list for a number of couples and families.
Is there a local park nearby for long runs?
Is there a world-class gym nearby?
Is there a health club nearby?
Is there a golf course nearby?
2. Schooling
The preference for which kind of school you send your children to is completely down to you - of course!!
I would, however, highly recommend that you keep the drive to your child’s school to a maximum of a 25 minute car journey away each way - and keep that to a short walk if you’re planning on living in Central London.
Any longer than that and it can become incredibly tiresome for both parent and child alike.
3. Community Spirit
The vast majority of London house buyers are looking to become part of a genuine community.
Is there a close knit community?
Are there supermarkets/ butchers/ bakers close by?
Are there nice restaurants?
Are there sports clubs nearby?
4. An Internal Annexe
Will you look to buy a London house with the potential to create an internal annexe?
An internal annexe can be incredibly important to the long term happiness of a family.
This is because it can be used as a base for a long term nanny or relative.
Also, parents could live in an internal annexe and they could potentially help with babysitting when necessary!
“The vast majority of London house buyers are looking to become part of a genuine community.”
5. Commute
Proximity to the local tube or station is of vital importance to any commuter.
Please do actually travel your intended route during rush hour to AND from your intended station, if you’re planning on living in a house in the London suburbs.
What is an acceptable door to door commute is personal…
Some people are fine with a 1-hour door to door commute.
Some flat buyers like to have a 20 minute walk to work.
Which of these aspects are at the top of your wish list when looking to buy a London house?