Owning your own home

but my car broke down on the way to a viewing and 5 hours in a layby outside Milton Keynes made me realise I don't want to live outside London unless it's Ireland.

That sounds like a scene in a Ken Loach movie.

A pal of mine lives in that area, and while it is quite out the way with no shops or bars/cafes how often do you realistically need/want to go to such things? My friend doesn't have much interest in them and loves her massive cosy family home. And as you mention Crystal Palace is close and that looks pretty decent.