I'm really torn between two houses in two very different locations and I don't know what to do.
Option A: Extended 1920s house in a naice area close to outstanding and good schools- currently in catchment for both an outstanding primary and an outstanding secondary (though both are due an Ofsted), plus on the doorstep of a good private school (DC wouldn't be attending it though, short of obtaining a scholarship). Good sized garden, big downstairs, but upstairs is significantly smaller. Would need to rejig to fit in a kitchen table, needs redecorating throughout but currently liveable. Two of the bedrooms are pretty big, but the other two are currently much smaller- about the size of our current boxroom. No en-suite to the master but downstairs shower-room off the kitchen (only one door between shower room and kitchen though, and proximity of the toilet to the food prep area does give me the ick somewhat). It's a city suburb, so close to city amenities but about 15 minutes walk from the nearest playground and park, though the garden is big enough to put our own play equipment in. Has a garage and lots of potential for rejigging the interior if we had the time and money. Underpriced for the area and house for quick sale. More affluent and more highly educated local population- on the doorstep of a hospital so lots of doctors, plus other high-flyers.
Option B: Extended 1970s build in a nice (but not naice) village, about six minutes away from the nearest large town and twenty minutes from the city. Big upstairs but downstairs is slightly smaller than the one we've got now, though very nicely laid out- kitchen/living/diner overlooks the garden, separate (though smallish) living room at the front, office/playroom. Garden is small, but very practical for children in terms of layout and backs onto a park with a playground that can be accessed from a grassy path three houses down. Nearby country walks, including to a castle ruin. Sort of village that attracts lots of walkers on the weekends. Schools good, though not outstanding, with only one near-ish secondary. Has an en-suite and dressing area to the master, bedrooms are all a good size. Family bathroom needs redoing, but apart from that wouldn't really need to change much. Hasn't got a garage. Lower crime (Option A isn't bad for crime but there's significantly more owing to how urban it is).
Option B has had an asking price offer made on it already having been on the market less than a week. Option A has been on the market since last year, and according to the vendor had a sale fall through due to problems at the buyer's end, there is an offer on the table they're considering but it's lower than they'd like. They want a new-build though and have to get their house sold again to secure it. It's about 40 grand more expensive than Option B.
I'm really torn and don't know which one to go for, they're both really nice. Really, if I want either I need to make a move today. Thoughts?