We were nervous too when moving from East Dulwich after living there for 7 years. Same reason as you, a house instead of a flat. Schools and transport also a big improvement.

It has been almost 2 years, and we haven't looked back. We know all our neighbours and regularly chat over the fences. Maybe it is something about more home owners than renters, but the atmosphere is much more friendly and chatty.

Hopefully we can get a pub at the old bank, and somewhere that sells meat within walking distance.