Phew

Just back from London again. I know, I know, it all seemed sorted out last time I wrote, but the truth is, I put a holding deposit on the Streatham Common place out of something like desperation. On reflection, it became clear to me that I simply don’t like Streatham very much (it’s far too bloody similar to round here, if you want the truth) and the place itself was a wee bit minging. Not terrible, but not to my liking. The open-plan downstairs was a negative, for me, and we won’t mention the state of the mattress in one of the bedrooms… (No, really, don’t ask.)

Today, Paul and I looked at another place just round the corner from this one. It was actually a bit better, and slightly cheaper, but the advantages were negated by it being right on top of a primary school as well as having severe fencing problems in the back garden… and the bathroom was a fucking disgrace. *sigh*

We then went to see a two-bedroom house in Collier’s Wood. I didn’t hold out much hope; we viewed a place there last week that was so utterly diabolical that I passed on even looking inside! How wrong can you be? A few blocks along and the area suddenly becomes a different world. Almost as soon as I realised the basic location I started to think, ‘This could be IT.’ Lots of trees and grass, a river, quiet and peaceful… perfect for the dog and generally lovely.

The house itself clinched it. It’s a very compact place, but really quite pristine. The estate is modern and very quiet. Small but fully-fitted kitchen, good furnishings, clean decor, neat garden. Although not much less money than the three-bedroom places I’d viewed in Streatham, the sheer class of it made all the difference to me.

And of course, it’s a ten-minute walk from the Tube, and from there a half-hour trip right into the centre of London. Plus, it’s a 15-minute bus ride from Wimbledon, itself an excellent town on a par with Brum on most counts. Local facilities are also strong, with a huge Sainsbury’s and sundry other shops just round the corner.

Perfect, really. Holding deposit down, ostensible moving date of October 6th, bar any hiccups. Fingers crossed, etc.

I have other stuff to write about, but I’m pooped and it’ll wait till tomorrow…