The London property market remains one of the most prominent and dynamic in the world, with fluctuating trends and diverse opportunities. While overall house prices have seen a decline in recent years, certain boroughs within London are witnessing steady growth.
In this article, we explore the intricacies of living in London, discussing the different property prices as well as the different lifestyles and opportunities.
House prices in London
Sat atop the UK property market in terms of demand and prices, the average property price in London stands at £518,000, according to recent reports. For first-time buyers, the expected cost sits at around £492,200.
At such a high price, first-time buyers are struggling to afford the required deposits for such properties, making selling hard. With the dynamic state of the market, new selling options are arising however, which is good the the housing market. Private companies who invest in properties such as We Buy Any Home in London offer an alternative selling route for those looking for a guaranteed sale at a time that suits them, with a cash offer given in minutes.
With houses being expensive to purchase for many prospective buyers, flats are the most popular and affordable option for buyers, though renting is becoming increasingly popular.
Affordable Rentals in London
Bexley, Croydon, and Sutton were marked as the cheapest areas for renting accommodation in London. With the average monthly rent sitting at around £1,520 , these boroughs offer a balance between affordability and access to amenities. Due to the unparalleled transport infrastructure in London, access between boroughs makes living a further distance away from work or amenities less drastic, as you can simply hop on a tube and travel across the huge capital city in a matter of minutes.
The preference for renting in London follows a generational trend where the price of buying property is becoming more and more unattractive to younger generations amidst a cost of living crisis, so renting offers a viable short-term living situation for those working, particularly in London.
Educational Opportunities
For families looking for property in London with a primary focus on educational opportunities, areas like Kingston-upon-Thames offer high-quality schools, including Wilson’s School and The Tiffin Girls’ School, which are renowned for their academic prominence.
Researching school rankings and catchment areas can play a crucial role in property decisions, ensuring access to quality education for children, so be sure to conduct thorough research if this aspect of life is a priority for you.
Diverse Lifestyles in London
Beyond the dimension of property prices and educational opportunities, London offers one of the world’s richest plains of lifestyles as a hub of multicultural diversity.
From bustling retail scenes to serene green spaces, the city caters to a plethora of interests and passions, suiting people from all backgrounds and lifestyles. For those interested in the true city life, more central areas like Soho and Shoreditch pulse with life, boasting cool cafes and thriving nightlife. These areas are particularly suited to young professionals
Whether your moving as a family or a young professional, there is perhaps no better place to move in the country than London. The property market is dynamic and ever-evolving, so getting on the property ladder as early as possible is definitely recommended, though renting offers a great alternative.