"Capitol" wrote in message ...
Peter Parry wrote in message ...
The worst houses, to be
avoided at all costs, are those built between about 1960 and 1985.
Dire standards and poor materials.

This bit I wouldn't agree with. If you are planning to stay for some years,
this is the period which can offer traditional cavity wall construction,
reasonable plot sizes, good wiring and plumbing, central heating designed
in, large windows and with a bit of cash are very easy to bring up to a good
standard.
Regards
Capitol

Agreed. Some of the best houses are those built in this period. Find a
property built in the 60's or 70's by a local independent builder with
a good reputation. OK, you may pay a premium and the wiring, windows
and heating system may be at the end of their life (depending how well
they've been maintained, or not) but the basic infrastructure will be
such that it's worth spending money on.