Are you trying to find the perfect flat in London? You’re not alone! Rental prices are expected to rise by about 7% by 2025, with average house prices hitting £1.2 million. That’s why doing your research is key to finding an affordable deal.
At Henfield Storage, we’ve put together 7 simple steps to kickstart your search, from setting your budget to choosing the right neighborhood and getting your paperwork in order. These tips are perfect for anyone navigating London’s competitive rental market. And if you’ve already made the big move, check out our Moving to London guide for even more helpful advice.
Ready to find your dream flat? Let’s dive in!
1. Set a Budget
A common rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30% of your income on rent. But in London, one of the most expensive cities in the world, that can be tough to stick to.
As of 2024, the average rent for a one-bedroom flat in central areas is especially high:
- Kensington and Chelsea: £3,459 pcm
- City of Westminster: £3,155 pcm
- Camden: £2,672 pcm
With the median salary for men in London around £47,900 (£3,991.67 per month), rent in these areas can easily eat up more than 50% of your income. To ease the pressure, consider more affordable boroughs like:
- Bexley: £966 pcm
- Havering: £1,051 pcm
- Croydon: £1,162 pcm
When setting your budget, don’t forget to account for extra costs like holding deposits and whether the flat is furnished or unfurnished, as these will affect your upfront expenses.
2. Pin Down Your Must-Haves
Type of Property
London’s got a bit of everything when it comes to property. You’ll find sleek new builds with modern perks like gyms, cozy period conversions packed with charm, and purpose-built flats designed with standard layouts. New builds tend to be move-in ready, while conversions might have a bit more character (and quirks), so it all comes down to what suits your style.
Proximity to Work
London’s transport is a lifesaver, but you’ll want to be close to the action. Check out how near your flat is to a Tube station or bus stop—places like Clapham Junction and Finsbury Park are super connected and can save you a lot of commuting hassle.
Commute Time
The average Londoner spends around 74 minutes commuting daily. If you’d prefer to cut that time down, aim for flats in well-connected areas like King’s Cross or Canary Wharf. Proximity to major transport links can make a big difference.
Parking
If you have a car, parking in London can be a bit of a challenge. Many areas require a resident permit, and the price depends on the location. Central London is split into different parking zones, each with specific regulations and rates. Charges typically range from £4.90 to £7.20 per hour, with higher fees in the city centre.
Some newer flats may offer private parking, but it often comes at an additional cost.
Pet-Friendliness
Got a furry friend? Not all flats in London are pet-friendly, so make sure to check with the landlord or agent. Some places allow pets but may charge a bit extra in rent or a higher deposit, so keep that in mind. According to the Renters (Reform) Bill 2022-23, tenants can keep a pet with their landlord’s consent, unless the landlord has a reasonable objection. Letting agents can also help clarify whether the freeholder permits pets, especially in leasehold properties.
Security
According to the most recent data, London’s overall crime rate in 2024 is 106 crimes per 1,000 people. To stay safe, avoid poorly lit areas or those with many alleys. Use the Police Crime Map to enter the postcode of your desired location and review the reported crimes in that area.
Green Spaces
If you love a bit of greenery, find a place near one of London’s many parks. Hampstead Heath, Hyde Park, and Clapham Common are great options if you’re looking for some outdoor space to unwind. Plus, properties near green spaces tend to be more valuable over time.
3. Utilise Trusted Property Websites and Agents
Make a list of reliable property websites to streamline your search, such as:
- Rightmove: A comprehensive platform for properties across the UK.
- Zoopla: Great for comparing prices and market trends.
- SpareRoom: Ideal for finding a room or a flatmate.
- OpenRent: Offers a direct rental experience without agency fees.
If you prefer a more personalised approach, consider enlisting a trustworthy real estate agent. When searching for a real estate agent, ensure they can provide the following:
- Avalable rental properties within your budget.
- Adequate experience in the market
- Property listings in areas you want to live in.
- Testimonials from past clients.
To find the best real estate agents in London, you can use a tool like allAgents. This platform ranks the top 40 agents by customer reviews, helping you find trustworthy professionals for your flat-hunting needs.
4. Single out three neighborhoods in London
Once you’ve picked an agent, share your list of must-havess. They’ll take this info and suggest neighborhoods that fit your budget and lifestyle, giving you a good starting point.
But don’t just stop there – do a little digging of your own. The neighborhood you choose will have a big impact on your daily life, so it’s worth getting a feel for it. Try these tips:
- Spend time in the area: Take a walk, and check out the local shops and attractions. Take note of the area’s noise, traffic, and overall activity. You can also chat with the locals t get real sense of the community and what to expect.
- Check online: Look up neighborhood reviews on forums or apps like Nextdoor to see what people are saying about safety, local amenities, and overall vibe.
By combining your agent’s recommendations with your own research, you’ll be able to narrow down three neighborhoods that feel right. It’ll save you time and give you more confidence in your decision.
5. Make a schedule for your flat hunting
If you’re short on time or moving to London from abroad, having a plan is key. Most landlords list new properties early in the week, but they may not appear online until mid-week. So, Tuesday to Thursday is the best time to book viewings, giving you the first chance to see fresh listings before competition heats up
If you can’t attend in person, many property sites offer 3D virtual tours, letting you explore flats from anywhere. You can also book viewings online to streamline the process. Apps like Citymapper are great for helping you navigate between different neighborhoods quickly, making the whole search more manageable.
6. Get Your Docs Ready to Seal the Deal
London flats, especially in popular areas, get snapped up fast. To stay ahead of the competition, have all your documents ready before you start booking viewings. Landlords will typically ask for:
- Proof of identity (passport or driving licence)
- Proof of income (recent payslips or tax returns)
- Right to Rent documents (visa or residency proof)
- References from your employer or previous landlord
A reference from a previous landlord shows that:
- You’re responsible and take good care of the property.
- You’re considerate and a great neighbour.
- You’re reliable when it comes to paying rent on time.
If you have pets, you might also need a pet reference to reassure landlords that your furry friend is well-behaved.
7. Stay Flexible with Your Expectations and Act Fast
While a must-have feature list isn’t a bad place to start, being flexible pays off. Sometimes, being open to compromises – like opting for a slightly smaller space or a different neighborhood – can help you land a fantastic deal, especially in a competitive market.
When you do find a property you love, act fast! London flats are notorious for getting snapped up quickly as demand outpace supply. So, make sure you have all your documentation ready and be prepared to put down a deposit at the viewing if you’re serious about securing your new home.
Moving to London? Use Henfield Storage!
One thing to know about London is that space is always in short supply. As we mentioned earlier, the demand for flats is high, and that pushes rent prices through the roof. If you’re just starting out in an entry-level job, affording a flat on your own might be tough. Chances are, you’ll be doing a house share or flatshare with others in the same situation.
With this comes a lack of storage space. If you’re moving into a smaller flat, consider renting a storage unit with Henfield Storage. For as little as £7.42 a week, you can reserve and secure a London storage unit for all your things.
Outside the city, our Crawley, Horsham, and Brighton storage facilities offer the same level of protection, affordability, and accessibility.
Contact us now for more information!
