Please help me, oh wise MNetters, because arguing about locations with my DH is driving me insane!
We are in our late 30s, and currently live on the edge of Orpington. Both work in London, around Bank/London Bridge, and are required to go into the office 2-3 days per week. We have no children, and none on the horizon (2 large dogs instead!).
We want to move house, with a budget of £900k - £1.25m max. Willing to undertake some renovation or add an extension, but would need to then lower the budget to £800 - 900k. Would strongly prefer a detached period property, and no new builds.
We like our current semi-rural location, with a small selection of local shops (hairdresser, butcher, bakery), our local pub and a good bus link into town, plus being a short walk to a railway station which takes us into London. I am not a confident driver, and so would ideally like to be in walking location to a bus but would be happy to drive to a station for commuting.
Are there any quiet but well-connected village or small town locations that would suit us in Kent? We love Sevenoaks, and further afield in the direction of Cranbrook, Goudhurst etc.
Also, if a location scout is a proper job, please do let me know as I would pay good money for someone to do this for us and find some good properties.
Thanks in advance for any ideas.