House Hunting

Ever tried looking for a place to live from over 3000 miles away? I have to tell you it's not easy.

We've been scouring the websites of numerous estate agents and letting agents (love that Britspeak) and have even phoned a couple of them. On the whole I'd have to say that these people are not forthcoming with either their interest or their help. One of them, however, Marquis Estates in Halstead, has been a pleasure to talk to. Jonathan White, the Sales and Lettings Manager, has even telephoned us with information, and has faxed us the necessary forms to request accommodation.

As I write, there are two properties available in Halstead that might suit us. One of them is quite spacious (though what we will need space for I don't know, since we will have absolutely no furniture or possessions to accommodate.) It is a two story flat located on the high street in a conservation area (like our 'designated heritage neighbourhood' I'm guessing.) It's over a bank - we'd have good security for sure! The other property is an end terraced, two floor house, located off the main street, with rooms of a much smaller size than the bank flat.

Both are withing walking distance of school for John; this is good. Neither have appliances; this is not good. We can rent said appliances, along with a tv, at a fairly reasonable cost. (Needless to say, we are becoming much more aware of how spoiled and comfortable we are in our Canadian circumstances!) Now we must examine the pros and cons, make a decision, and then figure out how we're going to survive with a fridge that holds only two days worth of groceries at a time.