For families with small children, house hunting can be overwhelming. A home is the biggest purchase your family will ever make, and you need to get it right. Let’s consider five of the most important things to keep in mind while you’re house hunting for your family.
Layout
While you want the master bedroom to give you and your spouse privacy, you also need to be close to the baby’s room. That means, the bedrooms should be on the same floor. However, a single-story split floor plan can also work to give you more privacy while also keeping the baby close. A house with an open floor plan will give you a clear line of sight, making it ideal for life with small children. The kids will have room to play, and you’ll be able to keep an eye on them while you work on your projects or cook dinner.
Location
This is especially important if you plan to stay in the same house as the children grow up and go to school. Real estate websites sometimes list the quality of area schools as well as crime rates. Finding a balance between affordable real estate and a safe neighborhood is very important. You will not be the only influence on your child’s character; their school and the neighborhood will also have a huge influence. Research the neighborhood and schools before you even look at area real estate.
Future Plans
Are there more children in your future? If so, look for a house with extra bedrooms and enough room for your growing family.
Outdoor Space
Time spent outdoors is healthy, and kids need a fenced backyard in a safe neighborhood to play in. Plus, it’s a place to do things like start a garden and have family barbecues. However, you’ll want to keep an eye on the kids while they’re outside. A house with an open floor plan and large windows and sliding glass doors can allow you to watch the kids while you’re still inside.
Budget
While you may plan to grow your career and income along with your family, you’ll need to keep your mortgage payments down. Raising children is expensive and you’ll need enough money every month to do it right.
A good neighborhood, good schools, an open floor plan, and a big, fenced backyard make the ideal home for a young family. While that seems like a tall order, it can be done, while staying within your budget.
