Flats to rent in Leyton & E10 and Houses to rent in Leyton & E10

Leyton and Leytonstone are stalwarts of East London, heavily traditional areas of the city as it pushes out towards Essex. But the myth of London-ness bonds with a typical multicultural modern identity to make it attractive to buyers.

Great for access to town via the Central Line, there are also a wealth of green spaces in the area, with Epping Forest close at hand, as well as Wanstead Flats. It's fantastically quick to get out into Essex to explore the coast, as easy as it is to get into town. In the area there are plenty of places to eat and drink, with great locals and lots of local stores catering to the huge diversity of people (it's one of the most multicultural areas in the capital).

There are differences between Leytone and Leytonstone. The latter is generally a fraction more pricey, as it is closer to Wanstead and its wide green area, Wanstead Flats. But for the most part, though they have different stations, these are very similar areas to find properties, and both are still places you can get a bargain - although that's changing. Property mainly consists of Victorian terraced houses, some of which are made into conversions; but there are still some blocks of flats in the area, although the bad ones have been demolished in many cases. Houses here are still very cheap by comparison with many other areas, although as people move out from the centre and Hackney, and as influences like the regeneration of Newham and Tower Hamlets, and preparations for London 2012 take hold (both Leyton and Leytonstone are in prime position to exploit these) this is bound to change.

One of the reasons it's changing is that as people are pushed out by price rises in the city and the west, they're coming east. When they do, they're finding it a good place to live, with excellent green spaces, lovely architecture and friendly locals in one of the best places to invest in London.

Leyton is in the Borough of Waltham Forest which holds the responsibility for delivering services in your area.
For specific information on this borough, or to contact individual departments please click here to visit their website.

Borough of Waltham Forest website: Borough of Waltham Forest

In General:
The London boroughs are administrative centres responsible for collecting local taxes (Council Tax and Business Rates) and then spending the funds received on local services. They are run by Borough Councils who are elected by borough residents on a four year cycle. The totals that they spend will depend on the rates of tax that they levy plus funds allocated from central government and other sources.

While many of the services (schools, roads, planning, rubbish collection and social services) are standard, levels of provision will vary according to the overall political will as expressed by the voters.

Your tax liability (as a resident) will be based on the council tax band of your home. These bands are set by Valuation Officers and there is scope for appeal. The rate bands are then used to determine the amounts of tax levied. So, while the bands will remain largely constant the levels of tax can go up and, in theory, down.

You may claim discounts or exemptions based on your circumstances. For example, as the only adult in a property you can get a 25% reduction on your bill. Other reductions are available for qualifying second adults and Council Tax Benefit claimants.

There is more information available at the HM Customs & Excise website.

Borough of Waltham Forest Council Tax