Advice needed on where to live!

[jenpop83]

We have just moved back to UK after 14 years overseas.

Currently staying with family with our 2 year old son whilst we look for somewhere to live. We want to be within an hour of Gatwick airport since hubby has to travel a bit and family proximity. So we’re thinking from Gatwick west towards Guildford area or the other way towards Tunbridge Wells? We have a decent budget and would love a home in or just outside a village as opposed to in a town.

Any ideas or advice would be appreciated!!

Thanks in advance

Welcome back! I have cousins living in Tunbridge wells who are looking to move to a larger home in the area, and are really struggling to find something, even with a decent wage and deposit. I'm unsure how this compares to other areas around Gatwick though. They love the area though. Good schools and shops etc, with many outlying villages which are lovely.
Look at the commute for work, getting to the airport and family etc. In particular Southern rail has had major delays and issues, so depending if you/OH will be commuting via train, take this into account. If you are planning on staying in that home for a while, also look up school catchments and if something suitable would be nearby.

Sevenoaks?

Depending on how long you are thinking of staying, Kent has grammar schools whilst Sussex and Surrey don’t. Or will you be looking towards private schooling?

Do you want to be close to a train line for Gatwick / London?

Storrington and Steyning are both nice small towns with some lovely outlying villages. Cuckfield is pretty too.

Your budget will go further in Sussex than Surrey. There are lots of lovely villages within easy reach of Gatwick.

Overlooking the Green, Staplefield
www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-72296449.html

High Street, Cuckfield, West Sussex, RH17
www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-76791391.html

Wisborough Green?

www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-74919361.html