Melbpom

Hi, I'm considering buying a property prior to moving back to the UK to use as a temporary base and then as an investment. House prices seem cheap compared to rental costs and I'm concerned that the market will pick up before I get back in about 2 years. However when browsing real estate websites it appears that properties are on the market for a lot longer than in Oz and in some cases prices are reduced. I'm unfamiliar with the UK market after away for 25 years however I have family in UK who would help. Any advice would be welcome.

Sales sites are obliged to quote the dealer trading registration even on carsales.com or drive.com. Just look for "LMCT1234" at the bottom of the webpage and then google it. It will save you having to give contact details and also the trader who "pays" to get your details even if you're just looking.

Thanks for replies. I've taken a look at some universities and I'm resigned to the fact that my son will be considered an international student. I've also been looking at A level grades for entry to undergraduate courses. For science/IT courses the grades seem to be rather high i.e. A's and B's. Has the bar been raised for uni entry?

Hi, Would you consider Preshil in Kew? It is very arts oriented and sounds like it would suit your daughter. My son attended for one year and loved it but I wanted him to go to a more conventional school.

I've recently built with one of the larger builders and my advice would be to use an independent build check service to monitor the quality. It will cost you a couple of thousand but you might avoid some of the problems I've had with shoddy work. If you do go ahead with a larger builder consider putting your money into higher ceilings and doors. I'd also avoid putting too much money into finishes because they'll date and can be upgraded to suit the current style when you are looking to sell.

Hi thanks for replies. My son was born in oz and I've lived here for 25 years. Its only recently that I've considered moving back to the UK. Moving back before he turns 18 isn't an option because of ex husband.

Hi I'm looking to return to the UK in a couple of years and take my son home after the completion of VCE in Australia. He was born but is eligible for British citizenship. I'd like him to do tertiary study in the Uk but I'm not sure if he will have to pay international fees. Has anyone had any experience with this?