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First time (individual) buyer - looking in Rochester/Chatham/Strood, Kent area
GoodnessGraciousMe
Posts: 40 Forumite
Hi everyone,
So I have decided to bite the bullet and make solid plans to start looking (and buy) a house towards the end of the year/early next year. I have chosen to wait as I need to save up some more money to cover stamp duty, legal costs and other expenses.
Based on my deposit and income, I cannot afford to buy in London so am looking at areas just outside of London that are commutable to the City within an hour (door to door), where I can buy a 3 bedroom house for under £250k. I was looking at the Rochester/Chatham/ maybe Strood areas.
I have never lived in these areas and wondered if anyone can offer some advice on the roads to avoid and what the areas are like? It will just be me buying so I don't have to think of schools.
Thanks,
GGM
So I have decided to bite the bullet and make solid plans to start looking (and buy) a house towards the end of the year/early next year. I have chosen to wait as I need to save up some more money to cover stamp duty, legal costs and other expenses.
Based on my deposit and income, I cannot afford to buy in London so am looking at areas just outside of London that are commutable to the City within an hour (door to door), where I can buy a 3 bedroom house for under £250k. I was looking at the Rochester/Chatham/ maybe Strood areas.
I have never lived in these areas and wondered if anyone can offer some advice on the roads to avoid and what the areas are like? It will just be me buying so I don't have to think of schools.
Thanks,
GGM
0
Comments
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Stats aren't everything but according to this report, River ward is the most deprived area of Medway (this includes part of Rochester and Chatham).
http://www.medway.gov.uk/pdf/Index%20of%20Multiple%20Deprivation%202015.pdf
Rochester High Street has character and people seem to like it. The Riverside area (between the railway and the river) is due for a major regeneration scheme soon.
You could try Rainham or Gravesend too which are on the same train line.0 -
Medway born and bred here.
You will hear that Medway is a cesspit and whilst some parts are, on the whole Medway is absolutely fine.
Areas to avoid: Luton road area in Chatham, Darnley Road area in Strood and the station area of Gillingham.
Rochester is generally nice all over as is Rainham. Chatham towards Rochester way is nice as is Lordswood and Walderslade. You will easily find what you're looking for, for your budget.
Feel free to PM with any properties you are interested in and I can give you lowdown on the area.
Medway is becoming increasingly popular (and more expensive) as people move from London to here because it's it has High Speed and excellent train and commuter coach links.0 -
Assuming you're a younger buyer I'd go for Rochester over Rainham - a bit more going on unless you prefer access to the countryside.
https://www.theguardian.com/money/2011/nov/25/lets-move-to-rochester-kent0
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