Family of 3 with DC in pre-school, we live in the London suburb and are about to purchase a home.
Flat 1 – An ugly looking (at least for my taste) block, probably from the 70s. Very well maintained, with concierge and very well kept front gardens and entryway. Flat is a huge 2 bed (90 sqm) with a beautiful river view and lots of natural light. 4th floor with a lift. High maintenance fee of £250 per month but you can see the building is really well looked after.
Flat 2 – 1st floor conversion apartment, pretty looking building, flat inside is much smaller, also a 2 bed but 68 sqm. Share of freehold, peppercorn ground rent and £150 maintenance fee.
Location-wise, both are within a few streets from each other and in catchment for our fav schools. Flat 1 is on a noisier road but has that lovely view + massive windows and natural light which make up for it. It’s really impressive inside, I just wish I could get over the outside.
Both with a lease of 900+ years.