Location is one of the most important parts of moving home. Without easy access to public transport and supermarkets, you’ll have to rely on a car, which is increasingly expensive in London.
If you’re considering moving to a new area but unsure what to look for, check out our list of essential quality-of-life amenities.
Essential Local Services: The 20-Minute Neighbourhood Blueprint
A popular urban planning model is the ’20-minute neighbourhood,’ which aims to ensure residents of a local area have access to vital services and conveniences within a 20-minute walk from their homes.
The properties you’re looking at should have a GP surgery, pharmacy, schools, supermarkets, tube or overground station, parks, banks, and petrol stations within walking distance. The model is catching on in London.
Ealing Council has announced plans to enable its seven towns, Acton, Ealing, Greenford, Hanwell, Northolt, Perivale, and Southall, to “have everything residents need within a 20-minute walk of their homes.” The council developed the plans after consulting with over 1,000 local residents through online surveys, workshops, and interviews.
Future-Proofing Your Move: Tech and Sustainability Features
Homes that offer features like EV charging points and high EPC ratings will be cheaper to run and save you the cost of future upgrades. If you decide to sell your home in the future, these amenities could boost your profits. A 2021 survey found that homes across 50 areas of the UK with an installed electric charging point sell for 13% higher than the local average.
High-speed broadband availability is a major factor to consider, especially if you work from home. Compare broadband deals to discover the best expected Wi-Fi speeds and monthly fees. Pick an option that covers the whole house to avoid relying on boosters.
Green Spaces and Community Hubs: Balancing Urban and Natural
Easy access to green spaces, including parks, woods, and nature reserves, improves physical and mental well-being. Spending time in nature can lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels and reduce blood pressure. For joggers who like to take their dogs out on a daily walk, parks with looped pathways kill two birds with one stone. Green spaces also act as natural filters, absorbing pollutants and improving air quality, which is particularly helpful in areas with high traffic.
Playgrounds and community centres are great for keeping the kids entertained after school and at the weekends. Many centres offer programs like exercise classes and language courses, making them a great place to make new friends locally.
Transport Links: Navigating London’s Evolving Infrastructure
If you rely on trains for commuting, proximity to public transport will give you more travel flexibility. Properties close to reliable public transport tend to increase in value over time. Look for homes near tube stations that get you to work without having to commute for over an hour.
London introduced low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) in 2020 to reduce noise and air pollution. LTNs are perfect if you’re looking for safe streets and cycle lanes to explore. Camden, Hackney, Lambeth, and Waltham Forest are among the boroughs with LTNs.
