Finding the perfect family home

WHEN YOU ARE looking to buy a family home, it can be tricky because you may not know exactly what to consider when viewing properties for sale. And although finding the perfect family home can be a challenge, there are some considerations that can help make the process a little easier.

But before you spend hours looking at properties, separate what you can’t live without from what is a ‘nice to have’. Not only will this save you time but will ensure you are not ruling out too many properties by being too selective.

LOCATION, LOCATION
First, it is important to have a realistic budget in mind and be aware of the different types of homes available and to consider what type of home would best suit your family’s needs. Location is important, as you will want to be close to schools, parks and other amenities that your family may need or want. A home’s location can impact everything from its resale value to your quality of life.

PROXIMITY TO SCHOOLS
The proximity to schools will be important if you have school-aged children, so make sure to consider the proximity of the home to their school. A long commute can be stressful and time-consuming, so ideally it is worth considering homes that are located close to schools.

Another important consideration is the proximity of the home to amenities like shops, restaurants and parks. Having these amenities nearby can make your day-to-day life more convenient and enjoyable.

SIZE MATTERS
If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful home, don’t forget to consider the noise levels in the area. Things like traffic, construction and loud neighbours can all make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep or enjoy some peace and quiet. The size of the home is also important, as you will want to make sure that there is enough space for your family to comfortably live and grow.

You should take into consideration the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as the square footage of the overall property. It is important to be realistic about your needs, so that you can find a home that will work for you both now and in the future.

SPACE INVADERS
Think about how your family will use the space. If you have young children, you may want to choose a home with a garden so they can play safely outside. If you entertain often, you may want a larger living room or kitchen.

If you have a lot of hobbies, you may need extra storage space. Keep in mind that your needs may change over time, so it is important to choose a home that can accommodate these changes. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and needs.

HOME CONDITION
Additionally, the condition of the home is important, as you will want to make sure that any repairs or updates that need to be made are within your budget. If there are significant problems with the property, you may want to consider negotiating the price down or walking away from the deal altogether.

It’s also important to keep in mind that even if a home is in good condition, there may still be some necessary repairs or updates that need to be made. Before making an offer on a home, be sure to have a realistic idea of what those costs could be so that you don’t end up overpaying. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs down the road.

CRIME RATES
Finally, you will also want to make sure that the home is in a good neighbourhood so that you can feel safe and secure living there. Research the crime rates in the area before making an offer on a property. One of the most obvious ways is to simply ask the local police force for their most recent crime statistics. This will give you a good overview of what kinds of crimes have been reported in the area recently, and how often they occur.

Visit the Crime Map website to view the latest reported crimes: https:// www.ourwatch.org.uk/crime-prevention/crime-prevention/crime-map. No one wants to live in a neighbourhood that is unsafe, so this is an important factor to consider.

Don’t forget, our professional, friendly advisers are on hand to support you and can help you explore all of your options.