If you need more space for your growing family or you’re planning on having children soon, buying a home to plant your family’s roots is an exciting prospect – and it’s a big decision too. If you choose well, you could end up staying for decades; if you choose wrong, you could face another relocation to find the right home that suits your needs.
To help you begin your search, here are five things you should look for when house hunting for your next family home:
1. Neighbourhood
Location is one of the most important factors when choosing a neighbourhood for your family to call home. Highly-rated schools, quality childcare, access to community centres, parks and recreational facilities all matter when you have little ones. You also want to consider the type of street the house is on, like a cul-de-sac or quiet side road. It’s important to consider your commute, too, because that will impact drop-offs and pick-ups and being able to make it to weeknight activities on time.
2. Layout
Having ample space is a must when buying a family home. First of all, you’ll need the right number of bedrooms and bathrooms, but you’ll also want a functional layout that will work (and grow) with your family. An open-concept main floor layout is ideal for keeping an eye on younger kids with some closed-off spaces for privacy as they mature. You’ll also want to look for homes where the master bedroom is on the same floor as the kids’ rooms to make those late-night wake-ups easier to manage.
3. Outdoor Space
Having access to outdoor space – whether it’s a yard, terrace or neighbouring parkland – is extremely valuable for families. Kids need space to run, play and explore and having easy access to nature is essential for living an active lifestyle.
4. Parking
In the suburbs, parking is rarely an issue, but for city-dwellers, it can make or break a deal. When buying a family home, search for properties that have enough parking for your cars to make coming and going with kids easier and more convenient. A garage is also very useful as a place to store bicycles, strollers, wagons and other gear that kids need regular access to.
5. Flexibility
Children grow and evolve and so will your family’s needs. When buying a home to settle into for the long term, look for a house that can accommodate your family well into the future. If that includes having more kids, you’ll want extra bedrooms to fill with love. Grandparents and family will want to visit, too, so space for guests is a bonus. Homes with basements offer great potential for growth, whether you need a playroom, teen hangout area or an income-generating apartment for when they fly the nest.
Are you looking for sound advice to guide you to your next dream home? Contact me, Deborah Clerk, Real Estate Sales Representative, ASA, with Keller Williams Real Estate Associates, Brokerage, in Mississauga, Ontario, to inquire about a free no-obligation home buyer consultation.
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