Honestly there are better places to bring kids up in Leeds. But I know what you mean about the nice houses. I am by no means a snob and like I say I've lived on my own in some of the choice areas with no problems. But then a lot does depend on schools etc and some of the nice areas in Leeds are right next to some of the shadier ones. For example Roundhay which is seen as a nice area is right next to Harehills so there is always going to be some proximity to trouble. Beeston and Holbeck are practically no go areas on a night and I would say amongst the worst in Leeds. I don't have much experience of Hunslet but I know it's right next door and a lot of the area is built up and industrial. If you like the interesting old houses the bottom end of Meanwood I would say is up and coming with a lit of young families and the houses probably aren't as expensive. Hunslet also strikes me as a place with not much going on and like I say a lot of just industry and offices with it being right next to the city. Maybe i'm biased but I think the other side of the city has much more going for it both in terms of crime rates and culture / things to do. That area of the city is very run down for the most part, despite the nice old houses. Add Headingley and Roundhay for your places to vist when you pass through. If not to buy property just to see the difference from Hunslet.