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The Right Choice
Choosing the right place to live is up there with the right partner and
right job. If you are miserable at 'home' it will pervade your whole existence.
Finding a new place to live is a stressful experience, the best properties
always go quickly, the place you want is always just a bit too expensive
and then there is the deadline when you must leave your current home!
However, before you start looking, making a checklist and setting your expectations
can ease the process considerably. Get you finances in order, good properties
go quickly and landlords will not wait for your. Here are a few suggestion
that you might want to consider.
How Much Can I Afford
Be honest. Don't waste your time looking at properties that you can't afford,
Also, don't commit to a place that you won't be able to pay for. You will
soon fall out with your landlord if you can't pay your rent.
Consider the bills; what is included in the rent and what else are you going
to have to pay on top of your rent. Typical costs to consider are, council
tax, gas, heating, electricity, telephone and internet.
Don't forget to factor in the deposit, you will probably have to pay both
the first months rent and one month deposit when you move in.
Can I Get To Work
Is the journey to work feasible and also within your budget. Don't live
somewhere where you can't afford to commute or the commute is too long.
Do You Feel Safe
Do you feel safe in both the property and the area. Consider what it would
be like coming home late on a dark winters evening.
Is the property secure with good locks and doors and are you likely to be
able to get insurance for you belongings.
Amenities In The Property
Would be happy in a basic flat or are you more used to dishwashers, washing
machines, internet, cable TV and private facilities. Do you want to sit outside
in the summer or even find a space to park your car.
Don't forget to check out the heating, it may be a warm sunny day when you
look around but if you have not got heating in your room / house it will
feel a very different place on a damp and cold February morning.
The Local Area
Does the local area have everything that you need or will you have to travel?
Does the area suit your lifestyle aspirations?
Where are you going to do your shopping, are there bars or pubs in the vicinity;
you won't want to drive or get on public transport every time you need anything.
Does the area have a nice feel, is there somewhere to get a coffee, read
a newspaper or even go to the cinema?
Transport
If you drive, what will your journey to / from work be like at rush hour.
Is there a place to park your car?
If you rely on public transport, don't only consider your journey to / from
work, check out the transport so that you can get home late at night or at
weekends.