Neil King of Neil King Residential talks to Allison Martin on why South Woodford will always be a popular choice.

Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Neil King, owner of Neil King estate agents on George Lane, South Woodford where we’ve been helping people move house since 1984.

What do you love about your job?

Moving can be stressful but, for most people, it’s also an exciting time. I find it very satisfying to hand over those keys knowing we’ve done as much as we can to minimise that stress and help things run as smoothly as possible.

Has Brexit affected the South Woodford property market?

There was a lot of hysteria in the run up to the vote and, admittedly, things did slow down in the weeks before and after but it’s already settling down again. I’m no economist, but I don’t see the market dropping as dramatically as some have predicted. South Woodford has always been a hugely popular area and that’s not going to change. It’s also important to remember people get so much more for their money here. Compared to similar areas in London, South Woodford is still comparatively undervalued.

What draws people to South Woodford?

It’s an easy commute to London, just an easy little hop on the central line. There’s also that vibrant high street where big names like Waitrose and Marks & Spencer sit alongside a wealth of independent shops and restaurants, which really appeals to local people. The legacy of the Olympic Park is also another plus, from Westfield Shopping centre to the activities and events happening around the Olympic Park itself.

What are the key issues for people moving in to the area?

We get first time buyers, but many of our customers are looking for family homes. As such, their focus is proximity to good schools and both the state and private schools here have great reputations. The fact that you have Epping Forest on your doorstep and the community is so child-friendly all adds to South Woodford’s reputation as a great place to raise a family.

How has demand for property increased in South Woodford?

I’ve always lived in South Woodford and have been advising on local property since 1984, I’ve found it’s always been a place where people want to settle. Local people tend to want to stay here or if they’ve moved out, to return with their families. In the last five years we’ve also seen people moving out from places like Hackney and Bethnal Green, wanting somewhere more suburban and, comparatively good value for money. Demand has continued to rise because people are increasingly realising what a great place South Woodford is to live.

What do you do to relax?

I spend an awful lot of time with my family. I have two children so there’s a lot of ferrying them around at weekends. When I’m not being ‘Dad’s Taxi, we tend to go out for meals.

What makes you happy?

A happy home.

Neil King Residential

10 Electric Parade, George Lane,

South Woodford

E18 2LY

020 8220 9000

www.nkres.co.uk