Relocating outside of London following divorce

[SeekingSuggestions]

Following our divorce, my stbx is wanting to move outside of London due to concerns about the price of housing. I would prefer to stay in London (and downsize) which I think would be in our son's best interest as his friends and hobbies are all linked to the area we currently live in, but she is adamant about moving. If I have to move, I would prefer to move somewhere within a commute to London, so as to keep my job. Am looking for advice on possible commuter towns with good secondary schools and where housing is more reasonably priced?

A lot depends on whereabouts in London you need to commute to. What sort of budget and what do you need for that budget?

East London. Not sure of budget yet as have yet to sell home but maybe around 250K. To further restrict things, stbx wants to move into a house, not a flat.

Well your ex is right that London is expensive and it’s difficult for a single income parent to find affordable accommodation. But the cost of living doesn’t get that much cheaper within a commutable distance. There seems to be an inference that she wants to move further. This would disrupt your relationship if you didn’t change jobs.

She might have a case if there is a solid case that she needs to make the move because of work, she would need to show she has a job to go to and a better place to live. In other words a case would have to be supported by more than a notion and a desire to have a house. Especially in the face of an objection from the other parent based on established roots and an actual job.

The one good thing you can do for a child’s wellbeing in a divorce is facilitate the relationship with the other parent. Distance makes that very difficult and puts the burden on the kid.

Yes I really hope we can find somewhere to live that meets all of our needs. I was struggling to find anywhere myself hence me posting here!

So will you each have £250k profit from the sale of a London property?

Does she work too, will she be able to get a mortgage? How old is your son?

No not even close! 250 is the top end of the mortgage I was advised I could afford with my current job. I believe her earnings are similar to mine.

Our son is 9...

Two bed semidetached near Colchester north which goes into Liverpool Street station (not sure where in east London you are) for &250k

https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/141778277#/?channel=RES_BUY

Thanks Sheila you're spot on, my nearest station is Liverpool St!