London property prices are known to be heavy on the pocket, but it is often desired by many to own a property in this buzzing city. For first-time buyers, it is mainly budget that is a top priority. An essential aspect is to ensure the location of the property. It is ideal to be located next to a tube station, have parks in the vicinity, schools and hospitals and of course a lively neighbourhood.

To suit the basic requirements but also fit in the budget central London is not quite an option due to the surged prices. A little further afield is where buyers can achieve the best for their buck. There are several fantastic London neighbourhoods that are affordable and will tick all the boxes of a first-time buyer.

 

Here’s a list of all the places that can be considered where property prices are on the rise and many facilities on offer.

 


Hillingdon, West London





Based on the average house price, council tax rates, price growth and transport links, Hillingdon is one of the most affordable places to buy in London.

As one of London’s outermost boroughs, it offers the best of both worlds - beautiful countryside, nature trails and lakes, and direct transport links into Central London. Hillingdon has epic transport links, which significantly cut down commutes and add value to your home in the long term.

Hillingdon also houses Heathrow airport, perfect for jet setters, and 16 Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ schools making it perfect for families.


 

Bromley, South East London




Over half of Bromley is made up of parks and meadows, making it popular amongst families and nature lovers. In a survey conducted by Rightmove, it was also ranked the ‘second happiest place to live in London’ after Richmond.

There are a total of 6 stations in Bromley, and it would take you around 25 minutes to get into Central London.

Bromley offers a wide range of properties, be it new builds, old Victorian houses or cottages.

Newham, East London

The home of the 2012 Olympics, Westfield Shopping Centre and Stratford Circus, this East London borough is a hub of activity. It’s just a stone’s throw from Canary Wharf, making it popular amongst the young working families.

There are a high number of Shared Ownership properties available in the area. Shared ownership makes it easier to get into the buying ladder as it can allow you to purchase 25 - 75% of the property. When you have the funds, you can then buy the remaining share. It is important to ensure you go through the terms when buying on such a deal.

Stratford also boasts great transport links, with the DLR train and direct tube lines to Oxford Circus.



Redridge, North East London




This borough could be a little less lively but you can literally get into the city in less than 20 minutes with the central tube line. Recent studies expect the property prices to be on a rise due to the imporovement in commute.

The council have invested heavily in sports facilities and schools over the last couple of years, and Fairlop Outdoor Activity centre is the perfect spot to give sailing and windsurfing a go.

Barking and Dagenham, East London

One of the cheapest areas to buy in London, it’s no surprise that Barking and Dagenham is popular with first-time buyers. There’s currently a huge regeneration project underway that aims to build 50,000 new homes and create 20,000 new jobs over the course of the next 20 years.

If you’re looking for culture, you can explore the likes of Barking Abbey and Eastbury Manor House - a National Trust Property. It’s not the greenest borough, but it still has 25 parks, tennis courts and a boating lake.

Barking and Dagenham is connected to central London by an Overground station, as well as District and Hammersmith & City tube lines.



Croydon, South London




If you’ve got affordability in mind, Croydon is often considered the best place to buy a house in London. According to Foxtons, 2-bed properties range between £180,000 and £570,000.

It takes less than 20 minutes to get to London Bridge by train and 15 minutes to get to Gatwick, and the tram system is also a great way to get around. Next to East Croydon station is Boxpark, a buzzing dining and events space that has 35 street food outlets, including the likes of The Breakfast Club and Bao Bao.

Croydon is also the home of Fairfield’s Hall - South London’s largest arts centre, which hosts everything from classical concerts to comedy gigs and musicals.