Buying a home is a complex process and it becomes even harder when you have a family. You have to not only consider your needs and wants but also those of your kids. Fortunately, there are many homes for sale and you will be spoilt for choice. Here are some tips on finding the perfect home for your family.
Size and Layout
If you are planning to grow your family or have kids consider buying a bigger house. You may need extra storage, a play area, and an entertainment area for kids. At some point your kids will grow up, the house should be big enough to accommodate their needs in the future. Boys and girls will need separate bedrooms as they grow up.
If you have a full-time nanny you might need an extra bedroom and bathroom. The kitchen and dining area should be big to accommodate everyone depending on the number of people in your family. The floor plan should match your family’s lifestyle. For a toddler, the bedrooms should be close to your bedroom on the same floor.
Location
This is one of the most important factors when buying a family home whether you are a fast-time buyer or not. Make sure that the location has all the amenities for your family such as schools, parks, play areas, hospitals, banks, etc. Another crucial thing to consider about the location is safety.
Consider certain things that are deal-breakers and the things that you love. The neighborhood is another factor to consider, ensure that the streets are safe for kids and free from noise. Find out if there are other families with young kids or the area is a ghost town. Most people prefer a location that is within walking distance to public transportation, they want proximity to major travel channels.
Budget
Buying a home is not like buying bread at the store. It is a financial commitment that requires careful planning and decision-making. You have to set a budget and ensure that you stick to it. Make it clear to your realtor about what you are willing to pay for a house, he or she will help find houses that fit your account.
Be realistic with your budget but that doesn’t mean you have to scale down your dream home. If you are planning to buy a house on mortgage, set the budget and know how much you can pay for a down payment considering the settlement costs, repairs, and renovations.
Do a Home Inspection
When buying a family home you have to conduct an inspection. Remember your family comes first and you need to ensure that it is suitable for every member including the kids. Start with the foundation, the house should be strong enough and free from cracks.
In terms of structure, you can hire a structural engineer to do the inspection and write a report. The exterior evaluation includes wall coverings, fences, drainage, doors, landscaping, windows, sidewalks, trim, etc. Home inspections can vary from state to state, that’s why you need to have a checklist that has the specific guidelines.
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