A guide to living in Berkshire

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

There are plenty of local shops, cafés and restaurants nearby, making it easy for everyday shopping and eating out. There are also a few nice bars within walking distance, as well as green spaces that are well looked after and good for walks or relaxing. Transport links are convenient, with regular buses and a nearby station that makes getting around easy, although it can be busy at peak times

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

The building management team are always quick to act especially Jayden

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

One thing I wish I had known before moving in is how quiet and settled the building feels most of the time, as this isn’t always obvious during a short viewing.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Reading is a great place to live, and I’m genuinely positive about life here. The range of local shops is excellent - you’ve got everything from high-street favourites in the town centre to independent cafés, markets and boutiques, so there’s always somewhere nice to browse and eat out. There’s also a solid mix of restaurants and bars, from relaxed pubs to modern eateries, which means you can enjoy everything from casual lunches to evenings out without having to travel far.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Building management has responded very positively to any issues raised. They are approachable, professional and quick to act, with clear communication throughout. Problems are handled efficiently and resolved in a timely manner, which gives real reassurance and confidence in how the building is managed.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

The large shopping centre is extremely convenient and easily accessible, making day-to-day living very easy. Having a wide range of shops, supermarkets, restaurants and essential services so close by saves time and adds real comfort and convenience to everyday life.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Ebb and Flow is an amazing place to live. In the centre of Reading a 2 minute walk from the station with so much to do. So many fun activists to do with family and friends including golf, bowling, darts and plenty more. Also great for social nights out with loads of Restaraunts and bars..

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Yes, always respond quickly and tend to any issues in a timely manor.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I wish I had known how truly great it was I would have moved sooner.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Living in Reading is lovely in so many ways — especially when you focus on its great lifestyle, vibrant community, and excellent amenities. Here’s a positive overview you might enjoy: 🌆 Shops, Restaurants & Bars Reading town centre has a wide range of shops from high-street favourites in Broad Street and The Oracle Shopping Centre to unique independent boutiques and cafés around Friar Street and Union Street. The food and drink scene is thriving with international cuisine, cosy cafés, stylish bars and riverside restaurants to suit all tastes. Eating out, meeting friends, or grabbing weekend brunch is easy and fun. Chancellors +1 🌳 Open Spaces & Recreation There are plenty of open spaces and parks for daily strolls, picnics or outdoor exercise. Forbury Gardens, Prospect Park, and riverside paths along the Kennet and Thames are perfect for relaxing weekends. Tilehurst’s McIlroy Park and the woodland areas offer great nature walks right on your doorstep.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Building management has consistently been proactive and attentive in addressing any concerns I've raised. On the rare occasions when issues have arisen, their response has been quick and efficient. For example, when there was a minor plumbing issue in my unit, the team responded within hours, sending a professional technician to resolve it. The communication throughout was clear and transparent, and they followed up to ensure everything was fixed to satisfaction. Additionally, they’ve shown a commitment to preventive maintenance, regularly inspecting common areas and facilities to avoid future problems. Overall, their approach reflects a high level of professionalism and dedication to ensuring residents' comfort and peace of mind.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Traffic can be noisy at night if I have my window open. But closed it is fine.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

There are lots of places to eat, a large shopping centre with places such as H&M, Zara and TK Max. There is a lovely park around the corner and the train into Paddington is only 20 minutes.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Maintenance are super quick and helpful if I have an issue in my apartment, and if I need help from the community team they are always there, the night team are friendly too.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I wish I had known what a solid community Ebb and Flow are, the majority of the residents are friendly and the team is amazing - I have made lots of new friends already!