Published: 12/05/2025 By Kalon Nelson
Did you know the locals matter?Hello and welcome to our blog space where we discuss all things relating to property, bringing you expert knowledge to help you make your next move a wise move.
In today’s topic of discussions, we’ll be covering the importance of the community and environment in which you decide to purchase a property. We’ll also be highlighting examples from the Clapham and Balham community. That’s right, you’ll be getting an insight from our very own neighbourhood.
So, did you know that the locals matter when you’re deciding to purchase a new property?
Financial advisers AHR Group stated that local amenities, crime and safety were amongst the most important factors that you should take into account when considering a property investment. This should not come as a surprise as people are generally looking for a home where they can raise children or have quick access to transport links and health services. Many people do not want to be caught up in the troubles of investing in areas that have high crime rates, especially involving burglary and knife crime. A report from Statista found that one of the key drivers for buyers were local amenities and that a lack of quality amenities can negatively impact property values.
As a buyer it may be good practice to familiarise yourself with the local community and to understand how the community works. How much community involvement is there on a grass roots level? Is there a local neighbourhood watch? Are local people involved in large scale property developments. Another thing to consider are the political developments such as the low traffic neighbourhoods (LTN’s) and the Ultra-Low Emissions Zone, since these have been implemented across London they have been met with mixed emotions with the majority coming from frustrated drivers who have no access to roads they used to be able to drive through. How does that impact you? LTNs can cause frustration by blocking off certain routes to other destinations and can hamper the publics way of life, however, from the alternative view point they can reduce traffic on specific roads whilst making streets arguably safer and the air cleaner.
Clapham South
In and around the Clapham South we have seen nothing but improvements to the local area with a mixture of independent shops and large chains working hand in hand to serve the diverse population that makes the area the vibrant place that it is.
With several efficient public transport options located both up and down Balham Hill you will never be short of potential access routes both in and out of London. The local schools are ever improving with incredible parent-led drives to improve student happiness and attainment.
The culture in the local community continues to thrive with locals taking an interest in environmentally friendly activities such as farming and gardening in Clapham. Although Clapham is well known by some for its active nightlife, Clapham’s Hub provides a night space for all to visit with police and community support actively positioned there to assist anyone who is in need of assistance. The Clapham Hub has taken an active stance in protecting women from violence and have actively promoted businesses and the community joining the Women’s Night Safety Charter.
We hope you have enjoyed and learned something new from the information provided here in this blog and we hope this information will help you to make your next move a wise move. 5 KEY TIPS Below!
5 Key Tips
- Assess the local community
- Make sure transport links are nearby
- Make sure leisure centres / Gym facilities etc are nearby
- Check to see if communal areas looked after
- Research local businesses and how they positively effect the area