[Margaret Pilkington]

I think you just have to go by gut feeling.......and anyway, areas do change.
You also have to work within your budget......even the most modest terraced houses these days are fetching a fortune.
Write down a list of things you would like your new home to have or be near.......and then another of things you would prefer not to have in your area......set out with that and see what you can find. OH, and good luck with the house hunting!