Buying a home is a big, if not the biggest, investment many of us will make. It’s also a process that requires careful consideration and a lot of thinking in advance. After all, it’s a place that needs to accommodate your family members and help them learn, grow, and thrive.
Because of that, it’s important to consider some of the most crucial factors before making such a big decision. Below, four things to ask yourself when looking for the perfect family home.
Is the location right for you?
The location of your new house is the one thing you won’t be able to change about it. Because of that, you need to carefully consider whether the location is right for you and your new family. Of course, if you’re moving to a new city, your research process will be a lot different from someone who’s moving just a few doors down the street. Still, it’s important that you do your homework and consider your family’s current and future needs. Here are some of the things to keep in mind when choosing a new location.
· the distance from your new home to work, schools, and city center
· proximity of parks, woodland, and walking trails (especially if you have a family dog)
· proximity of restaurants, bars, shopping centers, and pharmacies
· parking spots
· accessibility and appearance of a neighborhood
· lot location itself (e.g. near a busy road, a commercial property, or a body of water)
Are you looking for a new build or used home?
Depending on their preferences and budget, families may choose to buy a pre-owned home or build a new one. Of course, both options have their pros and cons. New homes come with home warranties and eliminate the “what if” factor that usually comes with pre-owned homes. Building developers may even throw in ‘bonuses’ as an incentive for you to put your name on the dotted line.
On the other hand, pre-owned homes are often in need of repair and may come with cosmetically covered up conditions. And since the house has been used for a while, you may need some help from eco friendly cleaning services to make sure all the stains, and hidden dirt are eliminated and you’re left with a safe, clean environment. That said, used homes are often move-in ready since they come with the appliances and sometimes even furniture. This is perfect if you’re strapped for time and need to relocate as soon as possible.
Does the size of the house fit your family’s needs?
This is certainly one of the biggest considerations homebuyers have when looking for a new family home. Surely, smaller homes may seem more appealing for a couple who’s just had their first child. But if you’re planning on expanding your family or want to be able to accommodate an aging family member, you’ll need to take that into consideration and get a house that’s big enough to accommodate everyone. In contrast, if you have older children, they may be moving out soon, and you won’t need as much space.
Factor in both your current and future needs, and pay special attention to the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. Ideally, each bedroom will be able to fit a double bed, and there’ll be one bathroom per every two bedrooms. Things like these will allow for flexibility while also making everyday living more convenient.
Will your new home fit your lifestyle?
The way you use your living space will also play a vital role when deciding on your potential new home. Not everyone has the same needs, and someone who travels a lot may not prioritize the same things as someone who works from home or someone who entertains a lot. Think about how you and your family will be utilizing the space and how practical it is for everyday living. Here are some of the questions that can help you find your new dream home based on your lifestyle.
· How big of a backyard/outdoor space do you need?
· Are there dedicated spaces for adults and kids?
· Is there enough storage for your family’s belongings?
· What type of floor plan does your family need?
· What do you value the most about the way you and your family live?
Make sure you answer these questions before you begin house-hunting. That way, you’ll work-out your non-negotiables from the get-go and navigate the complex homebuying process with much more ease.
Wrapping up
Different families have different needs and priorities, both of which play a vital role in the homebuying process. After all, the home you choose now will be central to your family life. Therefore, take your time to consider your needs and ask yourself the right questions. That’s the only way to make sure you’re making the right decision.