Buying into an up-and-coming area before it really takes off is one of the best ways for homeowners and first time buyers in particular to ensure that their property is affordable but will accrue plenty of equity.  That may sound easy, but the biggest problem is in spotting the luke warm areas before they become hot.  Let Northfields Estates predict the next up and coming area in Ealing – Hanwell W7.

Once upon a time, Ealing W5 was the postcode of choice in Ealing and it remains very desirable. As W5 properties are closer to the Broadway and the town centre they used to be more expensive than West Ealing, W13, but now W13 is just as desirable. One of the main reasons that W13 is now so hot is the desirability of schools in the area.  The large number of top-scoring state primaries as well as the very notable independent schools are indeed the reason that many families move to Ealing in the first place

Keeping this in mind, think about the regeneration ripple effect. Bordering areas benefit from the upsurge in an area’s popularity — cheaper and unfashionable today, but trendy and more expensive tomorrow. When scoping out potential hot spots look for places sandwiched between already hot areas. With Hanwell hugging the borders of the desireable W13, W7 certainly qualifies.

Schools were the reason for the boosting of the status of W13 but Northfields Estates predicts that transport could be the reason why the next hot neighbourhood – Hanwell W7 – will rise in status.  One way of spotting the up-and-coming hot spots is to get to grips with big infrastructure projects, particularly transport improvements — new lines and stations — opening up parts of London previouslyoverlooked by homebuyers, especially those with commuting in mind. Over the years, transport upgrades have significantly boosted property prices.

One of the reasons that property values in Hanwell are expected to rise is that Hanwell will be one of the stations on the new Crossrail system (as will Ealing Broadway).  The construction of Crossrail is planned to be complete in 2017 with train services introduced over the 12 months following.  This exciting new link to central London will make Hanwell an increasingly desirable area.

Hidden gem

But even with the transport plans still several years off there is much to credit Hanwell now.  Even without the much anticipated Crossrail the area is well connected.  W7 is convenient for the M4 and M40. Heathrow is a convenient 15 miles away.  Hanwell railway station (Zone 4) is two stops from Ealing Broadway (National Rail, and District and Central Lines, Zone 3) providing links to central London.  Once the Crossrail link from Ealing Broadway to central and east London is completed, it will become an increasingly popular area for commuters

Walkers and cyclists enjoy the pathways of the Grand Union Canal, which extend through English Heritage's six locks area and past Hanwell Viaduct which is a Brunel designed bridge. Owning a property in Hanwell gives you easy access to several large green areas including the Bunny Park which is so popular with families as well as a local golf course. Hanwell's lively shopping area is dominated by a stunning Art Deco clock tower. Schools in this area that are often recommended by local families include Oaklands Primary school and Drayton Manor High School.

Have a property is this area that you want to sell or let?  Call our Northfields office on 0208 840 6666 to take advantage of our extensive experience and success in W7.

Thinking about moving to Hanwell? 

Check out our properties for let in W7 here and our properties for sale in Hanwell here.