Finding the right home isn’t always simple, and the search can get a lot more complicated when you have kids. Features, amenities, and location all play a role in whether a property is well-suited to life with little ones. Fortunately, keeping these factors in mind can help ensure that you locate the ideal space for every member of your family.
Here are five things to keep in mind if you have kids and you’re searching for a home…
1) The layout
When you have children, safety is priority number one. That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye out for potential dangers when you’re assessing layouts. Steep staircases can increase the risk of falls, while a closed-off kitchen will make it difficult to keep an eye on the kids while preparing meals. Of course, there are steps you can take to childproof any living space—like adding baby gates and installing safety locks. That said, being aware of a home’s possible hazards can help you make a more informed purchase.
2) The neighbourhood
Home is more than just a beautiful house or condo. It’s also the community where you decide to put down roots. When you’re considering a particular neighbourhood, you’ll want to get a feel for what life is really like there. Are the neighbours friendly? Do they have kids? How safe is the area? You may also want to make sure that neighbourhood green spaces and playgrounds will be sufficient. An agent with local expertise will be able to answer all of your questions.
3) Local schools
Every parent wants a good education for their children. So it’s no surprise that when buyers are searching for a family home, schools are usually a big part of the equation. Start by looking into whether the neighbourhoods you’re considering can meet your basic educational requirements. For example, do you plan to send your kids to a Catholic or French Immersion school? From there, you might want to look at factors such as general reputation and EQAO scores (a measure of student academic performance that can be helpful in some circumstances).
4) Outdoor space
Whether you’re buying a single-family home, condo, or townhouse, you’ll want to think about your exterior space requirements. Are you looking for a property with a backyard? Do you or other members of your family drive? Be realistic. A neglected lawn may need a whole lot of work, and searching for parking spots on the street can lead to daily frustration. If you add a landscaped yard and a garage to your list of must-have features, your agent can explain how they might impact potential price points.
5) The future
It’s inevitable: families change. They grow, and grow up. That’s why thinking about the future is key to making the smartest possible home purchase. Are you planning to have another child? If you have young kids who are sharing a room, will they need more space in the years ahead? Perhaps your eldest will be leaving for college. From your overall square footage to your bedrooms and bathrooms, be sure that the home you choose will serve your family well in the future.
Ready to buy a home—with or without kids? Get in touch! We’d love to talk about the purchase process.
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