Flat buying advice

Blinkz · 11 Apr 2010 at 17:41

Hey everyone,

I'm currently thinking of getting on the property ladder, and as such have been looking around flats in my local area. The main problem I have is trying to decide between a 1 or 2 bed flat. For the money I can get a much nicer, more spacious flat in a nice area, or could get an average 2 bed. The main benefits I can see of 2 beds is that if I ever need I have the option to rent out the 2nd room, plus have extra storage and a room for friends should the come stay. I think a 2 bed would probably be easier to sell in the future. However I don't NEED a 2nd bed, I'm a single guy and as such having a nice living room and a flat in a nicer area is more important to me. So I'm basically just asking for everyone opinion, ideally with people experienced in the market! Any advice welcome.

Blinkz

Blinkz · 11 Apr 2010 at 17:46

SideWinder said:
You mention you could rent out the 2nd room...this is a good idea but do you really think you would do that? Or would you prefer to live alone?

Well no, at present I don't need to rent the 2nd room. I'm earning enough to cover mortgage/bills etc. But you never know what the future brings, could lose my job etc. I also have to admit that living with a stranger in my own home isn't the most appealing thought. Sure it would be great if you get on well but if you don't....

Blinkz · 11 Apr 2010 at 17:53

I really don't have that much junk lol. Just the usual clothes, a PC and a big TV lol. I rarely have the need for friends to stay over either. I could afford a 2nd bed no problem, but as I said its more to do with the difference in quality. I could get a REALLY nice 1 bed, or just an average 2 bed.

Blinkz · 11 Apr 2010 at 20:14

Thanks for all the advice! Nice to have a big response. I admit the one bed places I've looked around have been very nice and I do feel I could live in them. However the main driving force is that there seem to be more 1 bed places on the market then 2 bed at the moment. I've been looking around houses for around 3 months now and have to admit to getting pretty sick of it. I just want to find a place and have it sorted!! Not the best or most objectionable view! The price difference is hard to quantify, in the same location and same quality of flat the difference is £50k+ but there aren't many 2 bed and 1 bed in the same location. The majority of the 2 bed are slightly further out of the town then most of the 1 beds.

I'm just a little concerned that if I get a 1 bed I'll struggle to sell it on when I want to move on in a couple of years.