It’s easy to see the appeal of life in London. The pace is just a little bit faster than it is elsewhere, and there’s always some cultural event on that will keep things interesting. The professional opportunities, too, are often difficult to argue with.
But making the transition to the capital might equally seem overwhelming. You’ll need to navigate the housing market for one thing – and it’s worth understanding a little of what you might expect before you take the leap.
Understanding London’s Neighbourhoods
Part of what gives London its unique character is the fact that it’s a collection of boroughs and neighbourhoods that have grown organically together over centuries. Each of these areas has its own distinct character, and it’s worth delving in and understanding how your lifestyle might match with your would-be surroundings. What’s on offer in Camden, for example, might be different from what’s available in Tooting. Think about your budget, your commute time, and the availability of local facilities.
Making the best choice often means consulting with trusted Estate Agents in London, whose knowledge of the area might be far greater than yours.
Navigating the Housing Market
The housing market in London can vary tremendously in terms of costs. If you’re renting, you can expect to pay around £2,000 per month, with properties near the centre being vastly more expensive than those further toward the outskirts. When you spot a property that you like, you can give yourself an advantage by moving swiftly. Ensure that you have your documents to hand, so that you can demonstrate your trustworthiness to would-be landlords. Proof of income, bank statements, and references might all be helpful.
Getting Around: Transport and Commuting
In London, the most cost-effective and convenient way to get around is via public transport. There are multiple concentric ‘zones’, via which the price of a given day’s travel is calculated. This means that you won’t pay more if you’re making short trips. Paying is more convenient than ever, thanks to widely-available contactless payments and the famous Oyster card (though the former has largely displaced the latter among residents).
Settling In: Schools, Healthcare, and Daily Life
Once you’ve moved, you’ll need to register with a local GP, and establish where the essential services, like schools and park spaces, are to be found. If you’ve done your research prior to the move, then you’ll be able to find what you need with little difficulty.
Monica Costa founded London Mums in September 2006 after her son Diego’s birth together with a group of mothers who felt the need of meeting up regularly to share the challenges and joys of motherhood in metropolitan and multicultural London. London Mums is the FREE and independent peer support group for mums and mumpreneurs based in London https://www.londonmumsmagazine.com and you can connect on Twitter @londonmums
