Alright Carrie, I hear you. I feel you. 🥹
Wait.... but I am not in New York. I am in London. 🧐 Yes, this applies to London as well. 🫠
As a two-time London flat hunter, I've experienced both one-bedroom and two-bedroom searches. While I'm not an expert, I've gathered valuable insights to share with fellow renters and expats looking for accommodation in this vibrant city.
So how do we start? Lets start with a few questions before your London property hunt 🤨
Solo living or flatsharing in London?
I first started with living alone because I had been living with my family almost my entire life. I wanted to enjoy the freedom. Two years today, cost of living is just scared me off. I decided to move to a shared flat.
What's your London rental budget?
Prime locations in Zone 1 & 2 and new-build apartments command higher rents. Adjust your expectations based on your preferred London neighborhoods.
Preferred London location, zone, or area?
My first flat was near my office, but I later prioritized proximity to friends and London's green spaces like Regent's Park, Hyde Park, and the River Thames. Research London crime rates by postcode for peace of mind.
Look up the crime rate (putting the postcode here). You can view the crime as a reference.
In case you want to make the search more efficient, I have a couple more questions for you to consider 🧐
Furnished or unfurnished London rentals?
I don't want to spend extra money on furnitures. Plus you never know how long you will stay in this flat or in London.
New-build apartments, or houses?
Before London, I lived in highrise residential building - with 24/7 security concierge, lift, air-con haha I prefer apartment building.
Wooden floors or carpets in London flats?
I hate cleaning carpet. Some people like it because its soft.
Ground floor apartments: Pros and cons?
Not recommending it because its dangerous especially for a girl
Open-plan or separate kitchen?
I hate the smell goes to my living room and bedroom
En-suite or shared bathroom for London flatshares?
Top Websites and Apps for London Property Search:
Rightmove (I found my one-bedroom flat 2 years ago and a two-bedroom flat recently here)
SpareRoom (for you to find people to buddy up with or existing rooms)
London Flat Hunting Tips:
Read point 1-6 if you just need a quick bite only! 🤪
Check listings frequently (3-4 times daily)
Utilize filter functions effectively
Contact agents promptly for viewings
Consider email inquiries for after-hours listings
Negotiate long-term lease discounts for budget-friendly options
Avoid peak summer months for less competition and better deals
I did it 3-4 times a day because it made me anxious just to think about having no place to stay. When I saw newly added listings (please make good use of the filter functions), I called the agent and booked a viewing.
I only sent emails when I saw the flats after office hours. Usually, the agents got back to me the next day and called to arrange a viewing. 📞
If you have a tight budget 💷, I encourage you to ask the agent if the landlord can offer any discount if you sign a long-term lease (2-3 years). Don't wait to ask until you schedule the viewing if you have a strict budget; it will be a waste of time for you both.
This process is pretty straightforward but can be painful. Above is a list of questions you can use to set better criteria to find your dream place to stay (viewing is time-consuming as well).
Best moving time is to avoid summer 🌞 (loads of students are also looking for a flat and the market will be insanely busy/ expensive)
Remember, the London rental market moves quickly. Be prepared, know your priorities, and act fast when you find a suitable property. Happy London flat hunting!
(Probably not the best time to)Search now! 🔎
Additional resource: First time renters guide by Gov UK : threads