How can I assess a neighbourhood’s amenities when apartment hunting?

How can I assess a neighbourhood’s amenities when apartment hunting?

By Sophia Wood-Burgess

By

When you're on the hunt for a new apartment to rent, it's not just about finding the perfect property – it's also about choosing the right neighbourhood. The amenities surrounding your potential new home can make a huge difference for your lifestyle…so how do you figure out if an area is right for you?

First, think about the everyday essentials. Can you nip out for a pint of milk? Is there a decent GP surgery nearby? These little things make a massive difference to your daily life.

The school search

Check out Foxtons School Performance Guide.

If you have children, of course you’ll be checking out local schools – their quality can be a make-or-break factor for many families.

Our schools guide is a great place to start - you can search for the performance of primary schools, six form, nurseries and more by London borough, and build your shortlist.

Plan your commute

The commute is crucial too. Nobody wants to spend half their life on public transport. Check out the nearest tube, bus routes or train station - and maybe do a practice run during rush hour.

You also have the option search by commute times on the Foxtons website - so you can find the properties that fit your search requirements based on the maximum commute time you'd like.

And when you're off the clock

Don't forget about your downtime. A lovely local park, a good gym, or even just a decent pub can bring real lifestyle benefits. Plus, those weekend walks or quick fitness sessions are much more likely to happen if they're on your doorstep.

The Build to Rent advantage

Better than a gym down the street? How about a gym down the hall? If you’re considering becoming a Build to Rent resident, many of these developments have on-site gyms and other amenities to make your day-to-day much more convenient.

Learn more about Build to Rent.

Why to take the second viewing

Have you ever booked in a viewing with an estate agent, and they ask to show you another flat too? You might think they're just trying to shift their stock, however...

At Foxtons, you might want to take the second viewing because we do things a bit differently. Our agents can show you apartments anywhere, not just in their patch. So if you're struggling to find a 2-bed with some outdoor space near your office, we can offer to show you around a neighbourhood you hadn't considered, but with a dead easy commute.

Our agents know London like the back of their hand, and they'll often spot possibilities you might miss if you're focusing too narrowly on one area.

Your property insider

Want us to keep an eye out for you? Sign up to My Foxtons and tell us what you’re looking for. Then, we'll let you know when something that ticks your boxes comes up - before everyone else gets to see it.

Sign up to My Foxtons Browse apartments to let

How much is your property worth?

Get your property valued by a local expert