London apartment hunting | 6 simple tips + what not to do

Summary

In this video, Jess, a Kiwi who moved from Auckland to London, shares her personal journey and essential tips for flat hunting in one of the world's most competitive rental markets. She covers key steps like budgeting, choosing the right area, and setting clear expectations for your flat search. Jess emphasizes the importance of understanding your priorities, using reliable platforms like Zoopla and Rightmove, and making strong offers. With practical advice on avoiding scams, trusting your instincts, and understanding lease agreements, this guide helps simplify the complex process of securing a flat in London.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start by determining your budget for a flat, including fixed costs like gas, electric, internet, water, and council tax.
• 😀 Set a budget range: a comfortable ideal budget and a higher stretch budget for ideal properties in competitive areas.
• 😀 Consider factors like your desired space, work commute, lifestyle, and community when choosing where to live in London.
• 😀 If you're new to London, consider staying in temporary accommodation for 1-2 months to explore different areas and find the best fit.
• 😀 Make a list of essential features (like a safe commute and equal-sized bedrooms) and nice-to-haves (like a dishwasher) for your flat hunt.
• 😀 View a variety of properties to understand what type of space and area suits you best.
• 😀 Zoopla and Rightmove are the most popular platforms for searching flats in London. Set up push and email notifications to stay updated.
• 😀 When booking viewings, call the agent immediately to secure a spot, as email inquiries may be slower.
• 😀 During viewings, prepare a list of important questions and carefully check for things like mold, water pressure, and neighborhood noise.
• 😀 If you find a place you like, put in your offer right away, as competitive properties may require quick action. Consider offering more than the asking price.
• 😀 Avoid scams by using reputable agencies and never pay any deposit before viewing a property. Always read the contract details carefully before signing.

Q & A

What is the first step when flat hunting in London?

The first step is determining your budget. You need to factor in your income, expenses, and other fixed costs like gas, electricity, internet, water bills, and council tax.

What is council tax, and how does it affect your budget?

Council tax is a local tax paid to access council services in your area. The amount can vary depending on the council tax band, so it's important to factor it into your budget before searching for properties.

What are the three main factors to consider when choosing a location to live in London?

The three main factors are: (1) your budget, (2) your work and lifestyle needs (such as proximity to your workplace and recreational spots), and (3) whether you have a community already in London.

Should you try temporary accommodation when first moving to London?

Yes, it's highly recommended to spend your first 1-2 months in temporary accommodation like a sublet, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city. This allows you to explore different areas without feeling rushed.

How can you avoid being overwhelmed by the wide range of flats in London?

By making a clear list of 'essentials' (things you won't compromise on) and 'nice-to-haves' (things that would be a bonus but aren't deal-breakers), you can streamline your search and make quicker decisions.

What are some key things to check during a flat viewing?

You should check things like water pressure, property condition, heating/cooling systems, mold presence, and noise levels. Also, consider the condition of neighboring flats and the distance to local amenities or transport.

How competitive is the flat-hunting process in London?

The process is highly competitive. You need to act fast by booking viewings immediately after seeing listings and being prepared to make an offer on the spot, especially if the property is in high demand.

What should you do to make your offer more attractive?

To strengthen your offer, you can offer a longer lease term, pay several months' rent in advance, or provide a cover letter explaining who you are and your financial situation. A well-written cover letter can set you apart.

How can you avoid scams while searching for flats in London?

Always use reputable agencies and avoid paying any money or holding deposits before viewing a property. Never engage with unverified listings or landlords asking for upfront payments.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when flat hunting in London?

Avoid rushing your decision-making process, ignore your gut feeling, and not reviewing the details in your contract. Be sure to check for hidden fees, break clauses, and any other terms that may affect you during your stay.