Essex is generally fine Wanda. Avoid 'Vange' and 'Pitsea'. Depending on your budget, more desirable area's would be Upminster, Hornchurch and Brentwood area's. But you're talking 300k+ all day long for a decent crib there.
Like anywhere, all area's can be hit and miss. I live in Basildon, lots of poeple turn this nose up at it, but get good bang for buck. Nice central location as well