Is it a good idea to buy in Croydon?

gwynlas

A lot depends on where you both work in London and how much of a commute is okay. I lived in South Norwood for a time and loked central Croydon for shopping but this appears to have gone down hill. Your budget will allow you to buy in most of S London but don't forget to look at ground rents and service charges with flats that you would not have with a house.

Philomel

I live near Croydon and think it's fine (pros and cons, different areas have very different feels, I have a few friends who live there and are happy) but I saw this on Twitter today and it made me think of this thread 

https://twitter.com/elainebabey/status/1480621640149086213

MINNIEMOMO

Our shared ownership flat dropped in value and we live in South London. Don't expect to make money on it put it that way! I used to live in East Croydon and it's super run down. Personally I would try Sydenham/Penge if you're going to buy. A little more going on and not reliant on Southern/Thameslink which have caused me a lot of hassle.

onylon

I moved out of West Croydon last year and there were a lot of flats not selling. Real prices for existing flats (rather than new build) that would appeal to FTBs haven't gone up in about 5 years. I suspect prices are suppressed by the sheer number of new builds in the area. There's also the much delayed shopping center renovation that will cause a fair bit of disruption to locals if it ever happens. If it doesn't then the town center will continue to get more shabby and run down. No one can invest in case the renovation really is 6-12 months away. It's a rough area and you would be best avoiding the high street at night.

On the plus side if you like trying new food there's loads of really good places to eat that are marketed at different expat communities and/or young professionals. There are signs of gentrification as people buy up the "luxury" new builds. The station has seen recent investment and transport to central London or Gatwick airport is very good. 

IslandLife

Born and raised Croydoner here. The journey time into London is about 30-45 minutes door to door. Unless you are going to live right by east or west Croydon station, don’t be fooled by the 15 minute journey times to central london . Also the trains are rammed in the morning, or at-least were pre-pandemic. 

If I had your money I would be looking at anywhere with a walking distance to a major station in south Norwood, Sydenham, brockley etc. Beckenham and Bromley are pretty nice too! Personally, I think Croydon is too far out for “London lifestyle”