House Hunting

In the last two weeks I have been on a mission to find a new home to move to.

Thanks to the availability of hundreds of houses on gumtree I started my hunt quite relaxed, logging on each day, clicking on houses which took my fancy and then sending a few emails, only to very quickly find out the houses had already been filled.

The Panic set in.

Within 48 hours I'd suddenly learnt the London flat rental market is a competative sprint to see who can a) get to the house first b) make a decsision on the spot about taking it.

There is no time for 'sleeping on it'- if you see it, take it and dont hesitate.

I have lived in London for 7 years, but this is the first time I have come across such a heated pursuit for a roof and a bed.

So far I have seen 4 properties all of which promised views of canary wharf, ten minute bus journeys to the city or friendly housemates.

The reality was dank rooms, in houses with closed doors and fifteen minute walks to travel.

My advice to anyone room hunting is take a day off work and sit by the computer with your phone beside you ready to see call the landlord straight away, get in and get out of the houses- join the race kids to find a decent room.