First time buyer in London

[LemonDrizzle26]

Hi!

I'm looking to buy a two bed flat in London (probably SW), and budget is around 500k with possibly of going a bit higher if it would be advantageous. Ideally I'm looking for something that would increase in value but also that is already a nice place to live. I

'm currently in Earlsfield and love it. Zone 2/3 suits me well, and near public transport. As a single woman I'd like to live somewhere where I'd feel safe walking home at night. No DC yet and will be renting out the spare room. Looking at Southfields, Battersea, possibly Tooting, Earlsfield and all surrounding areas.

Anyone have any experience or things to look out for please? I'm very new to this and worried about making a mistake!! thanks!

or closer to the tube
PS We're also in Earlsfield, looking at moving to Tooting, with a similar budget.

You can probably get something in Clapham/ Balham for that sort of price, the compromise would be either a bit further from the tube or non period/ ex council property, but great areas to live and to be honest prices will only keep going up as they are such nice areas. Being on the tube much better than train on the whole (especially with night tube now).

Look at West Norwood. Train, an express bus and buses to Brixton. Nice vibe.

Streatham is not so bad, and from Streatham Hill you can walk to Tulse Hill. Lots of good bars, access to green space, good value.