If you’re thinking of buying a home in the new year, you might already be asking the question where should I buy a property in London in 2018? Here, we’ve shortlisted our top five areas that you should consider in your property search.
London Docklands
Although Canary Wharf is perhaps the most well known and easily recognisable part of London Docklands, there are areas close by where properties are more affordable and major development projects are transforming the landscape.
Just east of Canary Wharf, Canning Town has both underground and DLR services and has seen a number of new homes developments popping up in recent years. A reflection of the appetite to transform this East End neighbourhood is additional funding from the government and a promise to speed up construction projects, which are welcomed by local residents.
Part of this widescale regeneration is EcoWorld Ballymore’s London City Island, a project that will include apartments and the new home of the English National Ballet, all set on its own island. Adjacent to here is lifestyle development Goodluck Hope, which will have its own microbrewery and taproom on site. While the first homes won’t be finished until the end of 2019, the apartments are available to buy off plan through Foxtons.
Properties to buy in London Docklands
Mitcham
Over the past couple of years, there have been significant improvements made to Mitcham’s town centre that are changing the face of this south London suburb. Pedestrian areas have been opened up to allow buses to pass through, roads and parkland have been improved, and shop fronts and Mitcham Market have been restored.
With regeneration projects transforming Mitcham, there’s plenty of buzz about the area. There are many properties with prices below the London average, which makes Mitcham great for first-time buyers looking for more space at a more affordable price. The surrounding neighbourhoods of Tooting and Colliers Wood are also benefiting from improved high streets, offering residents upgraded amenities and a better choice of shops and eateries.
Ilford
Ilford’s town centre is set to undergo a makeover in conjunction with the opening of the Elizabeth line at the end of 2019, which will offer services to Bond Street in only 24 minutes. As well as improving green spaces, cycle routes and protecting existing buildings, the London Borough of Redbridge is hoping to encourage new businesses to the area, enhancing Ilford’s economy and particularly it’s night time economy.
Ilford is steeped in history, with Valentines Mansion and Gardens the jewel in its crown, so to say. There are also a number of Outstanding rated schools in the area around Victoria Park and a variety of independent cafes and restaurants too, which are just some of the reasons why you should buy a property here in 2018.
South Norwood
To the south of Crystal Palace, South Norwood’s residents love the area for its community feel. And there’s lots to see and do in South Norwood too.
Following investment from the local council, parts of Portland Road and Station Road are benefiting from a overhaul that will include landscaping and improved footways, as well as better parking for access to the local shops.
From Norwood Junction Station there are Overground, Thameslink and Southern trains into central London – in fact, it’s only around 30 minutes to London Victoria and as little as 15 minutes to London Bridge, depending on the time of the service.
And there are some interesting properties in South Norwood, including this maisonette set within a striking converted pump house.
Properties to buy in South Norwood
Cricklewood
Cricklewood is to benefit from a major regeneration of nearby Brent Cross, with additional funding set aside to improve Cricklewood's high street and amenities for those moving into new homes that are being built within the Brent Cross area.
Cricklewood also has great transport links, including trains to the City, as well as St Pancras and out to St Albans, while down the road there is access to the Underground at Kilburn and the Overground in nearby West Hampstead.
Plenty of parkland, pubs and beautiful period properties make Cricklewood the perfect area for young professionals and families who are looking for a convenient location with a lively feel.
