Best way to decide on entirely new area when you don't rent

[Ellsiedodah]

So all advice is keep your money in property: once on the ladder, don't leave it.. So how do you decide on a new area far away?

If I was moving far away, I’d definitely rent for a year to scope areas out and buy.

If it’s a bit closer or even 1-2h drive, I’d probably spend weekends and take time of work to visit areas during the week to get a feel for them. I’d also do basic research like checking local amenities, schools, transport links, crime rates etc.

Who gives that advice? It would be contrary to a lot of advice right now, given that it's looking like the market isn't going to shoot up any time soon, quite possibly the opposite, now seems a better time than most to sell, rent and buy.

My guess (and know one knows for sure) is the potential loss you may suffer re being out of market for just one year is way, way, way smaller than buying somewhere, realising its wrong for whatever reason then having to sell up and move again.

Thanks all. You've given me pause to think again. We are also going to take the plunge and begin trawling the West Country every Weekend. Wish us luck!

We rented for a year while we got used to the area we moved to. Would never buy somewhere til then.