Thank you all so much for your advice and input! I really appreciate it. I think I can handle the stairs. I too had the idea that if taught the right way he would treat it well. I am terrified of him climbing the balustrade even if I do teach him the right things tho lol. Even when we were there he thought it was hysterical to throw things down the stairs over the balustrade which worries me.

Walking to the car and back with groceries is going to suck hehe. And when Em is older and more independent it may be hard for a little while (ie he just be able to get up and get his own breakfast or go and get in and outside by himself) but I am sure we will manage. The pro's of this place is that its cheaper, more centrally located for us, easier to manage housework wise and garden wise and did I mention it was gorgeous

MelanieR One of my friends used to live in England and she says there are heaps of things that I could do to cover the railings so he can't climb. Right now its too tall for him

nikbrad I am already mindmapping where my furniture is going lol and I am very conscious of my furniture placement and what he could drag over as well.

Kat Awwww you're a doll! There is a link in my blog to the place if you wanna look!

Thanks so mcuh for everyone's help. I don't have to tell him till tomorrow so will make the decision then I think!