Rich in maritime history, Southampton was the port from which two of the most famous ships in the world, the Mayflower and the Titanic, were launched. The latter's tragic maiden voyage is well documented, but it's a little known fact that the Pilgrim Fathers actually set off from there to the New World. Not that the locals will let you forget, as the name 'Mayflower' graces countless establishments.

Although it was heavily bombed during World War II, Southampton has successfully rebuilt itself to become one of the most vibrant waterfront developments in the UK, with good watersports, leisure and shopping facilities.

Compared with other parts of the South East, house prices are comparatively low, although they are still above the national average. The most popular residential areas are to the north of the city, around the university. Chilworth has mostly detached, three- and four-bedroom 1950s houses. There is greater diversity of architecture in Highfield, with some Victorian and post-war property among the predominantly 1930s terraces.. There is also the delightful Orchards Estate, a 1920s village-style development, only half a mile from the city centre. Nearby Bassett offers a similar market although two-bedroom terrace houses are cheaper.

If you fancy a sea view, head for the docks and the bustling Ocean Village development on the coast. A lot of accommodation has been developed during the past 15 years and prices vary enormously.

To the west is Upper Shirley, which was built by the Quakers, so there are no pubs. Not that that has diminished its appeal, as it has proved popular for young families. Like the rest of Southampton, there are very few flats around but if you are looking for something smaller, try neighbouring Shirley where there are some period conversions amid the two and three-bed terraces. If it's a flat you're after, look in the city where thousands of flats have been made out of disused office blocks. The market is mostly buy-to-let and the popularity of investment property has pushed prices up. There are a few one-bedroom flats, but they won't be much cheaper and prices will depend on their state and fit out.

Southampton's coastal position is a great attraction but has some drawbacks too. Flooding has been a recurrent problem in the south east and global warming poses a serious threat to water levels in coastal regions, so give the National Floodline a call to see what the exact risks are.

The airport three miles north of the centre is also a big asset but has become busier in recent years and traffic looks set to increase. If you think you might be in the flight path, call the airport to find out which districts the 'noise footprint' affects. And owing to the predominance of subterranean clay fields in the region, parts are at high risk of subsidence. Southampton seems to have got off lightly but it's essential to carry out a full structural survey on prospective homes as subsidence can cause problems.

Useful contacts

The Environment Agency www.environment-agency.gov.uk

National Floodline 0845 988 1188

Southampton Local Authority 023 8022 3855

Southampton International Airport 023 8062 0021