We're a family of 4 living in Stockport and considering moving to Darlington later this year.
Essentially we are in rented and have out grown our tiny 2 bed and the landlord puts the rent up by a minimum of £100 every year for the past 4 years and we've reached our maximum so we're looking to relocate before it goes up again and due to cost of living and wanting more for our money. We plan to get a rental initially but then we'll be looking to buy once happy with the area.
Our rental budget is £750 for a 3 bed and our buy budget is £180k give or take.
I'm learning to drive but we won't have a car initially so need to have access to public transport and my husband's job requires him to go to London at least once a quarter. For this reason we've ruled out anything too rural.
We have a 1 year old and almost 3 year old so good primary schools are also a major consideration in our search. As well as general access to things to do for toddlers.
We are looking at Durham (Framwellgate Moor/ Pity Me/ Newton Hall areas) and Darlington - west of the city centre.
Please can anyone give recommendations for areas of Darlington to check out based on our circumstances and if there are other areas in County Durham that you think might fit these are also welcome.
We will be visiting Durham and Darlington for a week in March. We're swaying towards Darlington at the moment due to there being more properties in our rental price range at the moment as well as being a bit closer via train to London.
Thanks.