Helping you consider the right location for your next move

Mary McQueen, Partner at McDougall McQueen, talks us through one of the most important factors when choosing a home.

Location is one of the most important factors when choosing a home, and property prices will reflect this. If you want to move to a different part of town, or across the country, it can be especially daunting to find a location that suits your lifestyle and budget, but where you know you will be making a smart investment too. 

To help you find the right place to buy a house, we outline some of the key factors to consider: 

What transport links are there to the city centre and other areas?

This is especially important if you need to commute to work. 

What local amenities does the area have?

Pub, post office, restaurant, local shop – these tend to be basic requirements so find out what there is and think about which ones you are prepared to compromise on. 

Do you have children?

Or are you planning on having children whilst living in this house? Find out about schools and catchment areas, and whether schools are oversubscribed. Even if you don’t have children this can be a key factor to consider as it will impact your property when selling it in the future.

Affordability – although location is key, where can you afford to live?

Prices can vary significantly between areas and even within streets. Make sure to research the varying property prices of each area.

What are your requirements?

Do you want to live in a lively urban area with lots of activities and amenities, or a quiet rural setting without neighbours? 

What type of property do you want?

Do you prefer period properties or new builds? 

Check out property prices and council tax rates to try to get an idea of affordability of an area. 

Wherever you buy, think long-term. Do your research and find out about the area and plans for the future such as new housing developments or transport links which could impact the area, and thus impact any future sale. 

Find out more by speaking to McDougall McQueen on 0131 253 2790 or www.mcdougallmcqueen.co.uk 

This article was originally written for ESPC Magazine. Make sure you pick up our latest copy in your local supermarket or ESPC solicitor estate agent office.