Terri Ramsey Beavers There will come a point in your life where you are ready to move out of your first or second home and find the perfect family home where you can raise your kids and settle down for good. But, finding the perfect family home is easier said than done, and it takes much more than finding somewhere pretty to make a decision that works for you.
So what do you need to consider? Numerous factors go into choosing the perfect family home. These factors are not just relevant now but should be relevant for many years, especially if you plan on living in the house forever. If you’re unsure where to begin, here are eight crucial things to remember when looking for a family home.
See It In Person
Sure, the pandemic has made it difficult to view real estate in person. However, a virtual tour is fine to get an idea of what the house looks like, but visiting display homes will give you an idea of how the house feels.
This is vital when selecting a family home. Most people can get an idea of whether the house is right for them as soon as they walk through the door. Seeing it in person gives you the chance to walk around, touch the walls, and imagine yourself and your family growing inside.
Is There Room to Grow?
You are choosing a family home for the long haul, so you need a space that gives everyone the chance to grow. As you look around, consider whether the nursery can easily transform into a bedroom, and later an office for you or your partner.
Depending on how big you plan on making your family, there is a range of factors to consider. It must be large enough for everyone to have their own space without being too large that the home feels impersonal.
Close to Schools
Location is always important when choosing a family home, and its proximity to schools is an essential element of this. The closer you are to the school the easier it will be to drop your kids off and pick them up, or allow them to walk to and from school when they are old enough.
Even if the schools aren’t within convenient walking distance, easy transport links are something to consider, especially if other kids in the neighborhood also attend the same school. You should also research how good the schools are, as this can also play a factor in your child’s growth.
Neighborhood Safety
Every family wants to move to a safe neighborhood. a safe neighborhood puts your mind at ease, even if you still follow common sense and lock your doors and windows when you go out, just in case.
When looking for a home, you can use online tools to research the area and check the crime statistics. There should be plenty of information regarding what types of crime – if any – are prevalent, which will give you a strong idea about whether the neighborhood is suitable for you. If the home has safety features, such as motion sensor lighting and an open driveway or yard, you’re assured better protection from crime, too.
Where Can the Kids Play?
Speaking of the yard, you will want a place where the kids can spend time, play, and burn off the energy that only kids have at a certain age. A large backyard makes this possible, and play areas within walking distance should be high on your list of priorities.
It isn’t just the kids you need to think about, though. You need a space to relax as well, and a porch or decking should appeal to you. If there’s space for a hot tub or even a pool (climate permitting), you may have stumbled across a home you cannot say no to.
The Parking Situation
Off-road parking is one of the most desirable aspects when searching for a family home. It is convenient, and it guarantees you always have somewhere to park when getting home from work or the grocery store.
Parking on the road can be inconvenient, and it increases the chances of damage to your vehicle, especially if you live on a busy street. Ideally, you want a property that has space for two cars, even if you only have one right now. You may need to buy another car later, though, so bear this in mind.
Does It Feel Private?
If you’ve spent most of your life in apartments or shared properties, your family home is your chance to feel safe in your private kingdom. You never want to feel too exposed at home, so although large windows are great for natural light, they also encourage people to peer inside when walking past.
You should also think about your backyard. High hedges can make the area more private, and you should think about whether you have neighbors on all sides. If you’re someone who values privacy, especially when you have young kids, you may feel more comfortable with only two neighbors at most on either side of the house.
Storage Options
While you may not have much stuff to fill the home right now, you will accumulate plenty of items throughout the years. From clothes to toys to furniture and beyond, you’ll need somewhere to keep these if you are unable to get rid of them.
Plentiful storage space allows you to get the most out of your home, and it cuts down on clutter, making your house easier to manage. Spare rooms are useful at first, but you should also think about a home with an attic and garage space for anything else to keep the home in pristine condition.
The Home Of Your Dreams
Everyone has an idea of what their dream home is, and hopefully, you can find something that fits the bill. However, this is not always the case. You may need to compromise on certain issues. As long as you welcome these compromises, though, you won’t have any trouble picking the ideal home where you and your partner can start building your family.