As south Wales covers a large area, getting an overall sense of cost of living is quite difficult. However, according to recent studies, the south-east, including Cardiff and Newport, is one of the most affordable places to buy in the UK.
As Wales' most popular destination, Cardiff is a thriving capital that has undergone vast redevelopment over the past few years. Modern and cosmopolitan, there is a real sense of optimism and confidence about the city. This is reflected in the wealth of recreational and leisure facilities on offer, while the British Tourist Association (BTA) found that, out of 16 capital cities, Cardiff was the most affordable. With strong transport links across the UK, choosing a home in the city centre or in the growing suburbs is a sound investment.
Twelve miles east of Cardiff, Newport is the third largest city in Wales and gained city status 10
years ago. It is located on the River Usk and has a strong industrial past. With a variety of new homes currently being built in the area there is something for all budgets. Along with a range of housing options, there is a wide selection of jobs available as the city has a broad based economy. Well linked with Cardiff, Newport is a mile away from the M4 motorway linking Wales with London.
Swansea, on the southwest coast, is the second largest community in Wales. Approximately 40 miles from Cardiff, it is surrounded by stunning scenery, which attracts tourists from the UK and beyond. Transforming the area around the coast, the SA1 Swansea Waterfront has had £50m investment from the Welsh government and contains several residential properties as well as a range of new offices leisure facilities and infrastructure for the area. The M4 crosses through Swansea and there are direct train links to London.
New housing developments are being launched across the region, with the main focus on three- and four-bedroom family homes from developers such as Taylor Wimpey, Lovell, Redrow, Barratt Homes, Charles Church, Wynndel Property Management and Persimmon.
Affordable
£154,995
Lysaght Village is a new development from Taylor Wimpey near Newport. With a range of property types available, the ‘Wessex', a threebedroom terraced house, is the most affordable home currently available. With a private garden, a master bedroom with en suite shower room and allocated parking, this property is an ideal first family home.
Family
£234,995
Just off an established street in Swansea, Awel Y Coed from Persimmon is in the Ty Coch area of the city. Offering a selection of three- and four- bedroom homes, The ‘Lliedi' is a four-bedroom detached property with its own garage.
Luxury
£464,950
Naturally Woodlands is an exclusive development of four-bedroom detached homes from Wynndel Property Management in Brynna. Set within their own grounds, these properties are
environmentally friendly and within a secluded woodland clearing. The ‘Sessile' won a Silver
award in the Best House category of the What House? Awards 2012 and is available from £464,950.