Checking out the neighbours is one of the most difficult (but arguably one of the most important) things to do when you are buying a flat. There’ll be people living above, below and next door to you. This may offer a very happy communal environment – new flat, new best friends next door. However, with a greater number of neighbours to consider, there is the potential to be closer to a more diverse mixture of lifestyles not always fully aligned with your own, and offering the occasional neighbourly challenge children, pets and loud music are fairly common sources of annoyance to those who do not share the same interests. Thin dividing walls are a strong consideration with regard to noise worries. Although it is worth noting that a flat lease will hold neighbours responsible for managing noise levels within a generally acceptable limit. For your own understanding and peace of mind, you are best to view the flat at different times of the day. This allows you to fully appreciate the whole environment and determine if it’s really where you would like to live.