Looking for a place

When moving to London for work and searching for accommodation, it's essential to consider several factors to find a place that suits your needs and preferences. Based on the insights from the Wall Street Oasis discussions, here are some recommendations and tips:

1. Consider Flatsharing: To manage the high cost of living in London, many professionals opt for flatsharing. This not only helps in reducing the rent but also in sharing utility bills. Studios can be quite expensive, often running upwards of £1,200 for a place that might not meet all your expectations.

2. Target East London: East London is recommended for its value for money, especially if you're working in the City or Canary Wharf. Areas like Wapping, Limehouse, Shoreditch, Canning Town, and the vicinity around Canary Wharf and Isle of Dogs offer a good balance between cost, amenities, and accessibility. Avoid areas like Shadwell, which might not offer the best living experience.

3. Look for New Builds: There has been a surge in new developments in East London. These new builds often come with modern amenities and might be available at a rent of around £850 - £1,000 plus tax and bills. You might find a two-bedroom, two-bathroom flat within this range, which is quite reasonable for London standards.

4. Use Online Platforms: Platforms like SpareRoom, Rightmove, and Zoopla can be incredibly useful in your search. They allow you to filter your search according to your budget, preferred area, and other criteria.

5. Networking and Forums: Engage in forums like Wall Street Oasis and others related to living in London or your specific industry. Sometimes, leads on available accommodation come through networking.

6. Consider Your Commute: London's public transport system is extensive, but your commute can significantly impact your daily life. Look for places with good transport links, especially the DLR and all-day buses in East London, to ensure a manageable commute to work.

7. Budget Wisely: London is known for its high living costs. Apart from rent, consider budgeting for council tax, utilities, internet, and other living expenses. A rule of thumb is not to spend more than a third of your monthly income on rent.

Remember, finding the right place can take some time, so it's advisable to start your search early. Good luck with your move to London!

Sources: London Rent / Living Arrangements 2019, Where to live in London?, Working Abroad - Regrets/Benefits, London 2023 Progress Megathread, 2022 Analyst Housing London

Based on the most helpful WSO content regarding living arrangements in London, here are some insights and recommendations for finding a place:

1. Location Preferences: If you're working in the City or Canary Wharf, East London offers great value for your money. Areas like Wapping, Limehouse, Shoreditch, Canning Town, and the vicinity around Canary Wharf/Isle of Dogs are recommended. These areas are known for their relatively affordable rent compared to overpriced areas in West London and Angel/Islington. However, it's advised to avoid Shadwell.

2. Rent and Living Arrangements: For a more budget-friendly option, consider looking for a flatshare, as studios can be quite expensive, running anywhere from £1.2K+ for a place that might not meet all your expectations. A lot of new builds have been developed in East London, so targeting those could be beneficial. Rent for these new builds is usually around £850 - £1000 plus tax and bills. You can often find a two-bedroom, two-bathroom flat in this price range. The more flatmates you have, the cheaper your living costs will be, so it depends on your personal preference.

3. Networking for Housing: Since you're looking for leads or offers, joining forums like Wall Street Oasis and engaging in threads related to housing in London could be beneficial. You might find others in similar situations or those looking for flatmates. Additionally, exploring local Facebook groups or websites dedicated to housing in London could provide you with more immediate options.

4. Timing: Since you're planning to move in mid-April, it's crucial to start your search as soon as possible. The housing market in London can be quite competitive, especially in desirable areas.

Remember, when moving to a new city, especially one as diverse and expansive as London, it's important to visit the areas you're considering if possible. This will give you a better feel for the neighborhood and its amenities, transport links, and overall vibe. Good luck with your move and finding the perfect place in London!

Sources: London Rent / Living Arrangements 2019, Where to live in London?, Working Abroad - Regrets/Benefits, 2022 Analyst Housing London, London 2023 Progress Megathread