Follow Chiltern Relocation’s guide to the 10 things to do before moving out of London
Chiltern Relocation has been helping to move families into the area for the past 20 years. We know what makes a successful move and how to preparation and research ahead of the move gets the best results. If you are thinking of moving out of London to Bucks, Berks, Hertfordshire or Oxfordshire and don’t know where to start, then take a look at Chiltern Relocation’s essential top ten to do check list.
- Get a Home Valuation: Obtain an up-to-date valuation of your current home to guide your future search. Also ask the agent for any tips to improve your listing.
- Consider Your Commute: Check train, tube, and bus timetables to determine acceptable commute times. Remember to add in time to walk or drive to the station – and parking.
- Check Schooling Options: Check catchment areas for preferred primary and secondary schools. Are there spaces available at private schools and what is the entry criteria? What are the rules for 11+ entry for grammar schools? Check local league tables. Check school bus routes.
- Map Your Search Area: Start to identify possible locations on a map. List commute times from each area on the map. Remember schools impact house valuations.
- Research different areas: Look at what each has to offer. Check Chiltern Relocation’s Area Guides which give a flavour to many local towns and villages.
- List Likes and Dislikes: Write lists of what you like and dislike about your current area and house and what you want in the new area and house. Be mindful that there is often the need to compromise on some likes/dislikes but know which ones are vital.
- Research Day-to-Day Priorities: Where is the local supermarket, restaurants and social and sporting amenities. Which amenities and priorities are essential to you for a successful move.
- Visit Potential Areas: Spend a weekend visiting areas and driving round to get a feel for different towns and villages. Park up and take a walk along the High Street, pop into a café – chat to locals. Even line up a house viewing to get an idea of what you can get for your budget.
- Join Local Networks: Connect with local social networks and websites like Netmums for advice or local community social media pages for a flavour of what goes on in each area.
- Connect with local estate agents: Get to know the estate agents so you are at the forefront of their mind when viewing and valuing properties.
By making a start on these top ten areas you will be in a very strong position when the time comes to make the move. Most importantly we encourage clients to keep an open mind when viewing properties. By keeping an open mind and having a broad search criteria when considering your options you may well find something exceptional that you may not have previously considered.
If you need help to find your ideal home then we can help. With over 20 years’ experience in sourcing property and unrivalled local knowledge, Chiltern Relocation can take on the stress of the search and guide you through the all the steps to finding exactly what you are looking for.
For more information call 01494 672086 or email: enquiries@chilternrelocation.com or visit our website: www.chilternrelocation.com
