Need to Commute to Paddington in less than an hour - where to live for 250k?

[CJMommy]

Hello - need advice.

We currently live in the Midlands and a job has been advertised in central london, which I would love to apply for. However, cost of living is very different and we couldn't afford more than 250k.

I won't apply for it unless i am sure that I could accept it, if offered.

My DH and I have two DC's (3 y/o and 3 month old) so schools/nursery are an important consideration. The job is at St. Mary's hospital so would need to travel to Paddington station, in under an hour.

I've had a look at properties but they all appear to be way out of our league.

Also, has anyone made this kind of move and loved/regretted it?

Any advice appreciated.
Thanks

Somewhere between Maidenhead and Reading? Fast trains on a regular basis and lovely countryside.

We used to live in Caversham, Reading. Am not sure of the property prices now - but in 2004-2005 we bought a lovely new build 3 bed house for just over £250k. I am pretty sure you could get a 3 bed house in Caversham for your budget. It is about 20min walk to Reading station, with frequent trains in to Paddington. Good schools in the area, Waitrose (!), parks - and Reading is a decent town IMO.

We moved from there to the Midlands (!), but only because I wanted to be nearer my family. It looks likely we'll have to move back to the Berkshire area because of my DH's work in the next few years - and I wouldn't mind at all as it is a lovely area.

I was going to say between Maidenhead and Reading too. My SIL is putting in an offer in Caversham for a big 3 bed house on for 229k. She's a teacher and researched the schools, so I assume it's a pretty ok area. Her budget is the same as yours and she's seen quite a bit around that area. Good luck!

Thank you. This has helped. Will have a look at the properties around that area.

try newbury - 45 mins to paddington on a fast train (but pricy ticket) and excellent nurseries and schools

If you'd rather stay in London, I think places like Hayes to the west near Heathrow are fairly affordable and on a direct line to Reading. They can be a bit mixed though...

My cousin lives in West Drayton, it's the last zone 6 station . Apparently good for primary schools and has a lovely old village green bit, though some areas a bit more grimy... but no secondary schools walkable, it's all a bus/train/drive away. But only 25 mins to paddington and will have crossrail in a few years.

Alternatively how about uxbridge, Langley, Reading (tilehurst or emmer green are cheaper than Caversham) , Twyford (though I think Twyford might be too pricey, it has some fast trains). Lots of options potentially, how about going on Google Earth and having a virtual drive-through?

Oops, didn't notice someone resurrected a zombie thread! OP where did you go for in the end??