Advice to help you transition
Guest post by Zoe Price
It’s a story as old as our civilisation. People move to a more prosperous area in search of a better life, career, or even to make their fortune. Whether it’s because of industry or perceived wealth, there is always a transition period required to adjust to the new environment. Admittedly, survival in our capital would be far simpler if the pavements were actually made of gold, but there are still plenty of opportunities for young professionals looking to get their foot in the door of London.
Your transition can be a lot smoother if you approach the city with the right attitude. Below we’ll provide some tips to help you navigate London and prosper in your new environment.
Property Expectations
Even young professionals that are aware of London’s high property prices can be shocked by how little you get for your money. There is usually a compromise required, and you usually get to pick between compromising on size or location, and sometimes you need to compromise on both to remain within your budget. Thankfully there are lots of short term lets, flats, and even single rooms available to let. Be warned, if you find a suitable property, it’s best to act quick. There are always thousands of people searching for property in London, and anything half reasonable doesn’t stay on the market for long.
Don’t forget to factor in other additional costs, like utilities and council tax. If your initial rental is smaller than you imagined, and it probably will be, then it can be good to be within reach of a reputable and affordable self-storage place. Storage in the capital is commonplace and can come in handy while you get yourself established and move up the ladder. Companies like Safestore offer plenty of secure units dotted around London, usually with 24-hour access. What’s more is that they offer a 50% discount for the first 8 weeks when you choose a storage unit in London, so you can even save going down this route.
Change Your Transport Perception
Public transport in many cities can just be for those who cannot afford a car, but in London it is an absolute must for getting around. This should be a consideration when selecting a property. Familiarise yourself with the various lines of the London Underground, the bus routes, and even any cycle schemes you might want to utilise to get around.
Knowing how to navigate London using public transport will make your life infinitely easier and cheaper.
Generate Income
While finding a job might seem like an obvious requirement, lots of people will still come to London with no work and only a couple of months’ worth of money in the bank. If you don’t already have a job sorted before moving, then start scouring job sites and dropping your CV to every available agency straight away. Money can run out quickly in London, and the last thing you want is to be looking for a guide to the best hostels and soup kitchens.
Don’t Forget to Enjoy Your New Home
London is a wonderful city that attracts millions of tourists every year. Although all the serious stuff must take priority, don’t forget to take some time to appreciate where you live. Whether you take a walk around one of the many beautiful parks, visit one of the museums, or explore the weird treasures of Ripley’s Believe it or Not, London has something to offer everyone.
Learn How to Shop Cheaply
London is known for its great shopping, but if you’re going to trying to stretch your wages as far as you can, then exploring local shopping further from the centre will help you to make the most of your money. There are plenty of places to eat in around London that offer special deals, you just have to be prepared to spend a bit of time on Google and keep your eyes open.
London can be an inspiring and fantastic place to live, if you’re not spending your days worrying about paying bills. A little preparation can go a long way.
