What to look out for when buying your first home

Buying your first home is a major milestone, and finding the right location is just as important as finding the right property. For many first-time buyers, Ipswich stands out as a smart choice, offering affordability, strong transport links, a welcoming community, and high-quality new builds.

Affordability and Value for Money

One of the biggest advantages of buying in Ipswich is the affordability. Compared to neighbouring cities like London and Cambridge, the prices of properties in Ipswich are significantly lower, offering excellent value for money. According to ONS data, the average property price in Ipswich is significantly lower, making homeownership a realistic goal for first-time buyers.

Along with lower property prices, the cost of living is also more manageable than in larger cities, meaning your budget stretches further. With rising interest in the area and ongoing investment and development, there’s strong potential for future property value growth, making Ipswich a smart investment as well as a great place to live.

Excellent Transport Links

Ipswich is exceptionally well-connected, making it ideal for professionals who commute or anyone who values easy access to major hubs. Direct train services to London Liverpool Street take just over an hour, making it feasible for professionals travelling to the city on a daily basis. The town is also served by the A12 and A14 for easy road access to London, Cambridge, and other major hubs. Stansted Airport is also within reach, offering a gateway for international travel.

Thriving Local Amenities and Community

Ipswich is home to a wide range of local amenities, including shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and green spaces.The town centre is home to independent businesses as well as big-name retailers, cafes, and restaurants that cater to all tastes and budgets. Cultural sites like Christchurch Mansion and the Ipswich Waterfront add to the town’s unique charm.

Green spaces and parks such as Holywells Park and the Orwell Country Park offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The town also hosts a variety of community eventsand festivals that help create a warm, neighbourly atmosphere.

Availability of New Build Homes

Ipswich has seen a steady rise in high-quality developments tailored to modern living. For first-time buyers, new build homes in Ipswich provide an appealing route into the housing market, with homes that offer modern amenities and energy efficiency, appealing to first-time buyers seeking contemporary living spaces.

Many developments are also eligible for government schemes that support first-time buyers, such as shared ownership and First Homes.

For first-time buyers, Ipswich ticks all the right boxes: affordability, accessibility, lifestyle, and future potential. If you’re starting your property journey, Ipswich is well worth considering and might just be the perfect place to call home.