If you’re in the process of growing your family, you may be thinking about purchasing a new home. This is the case for most people who have just tied the knot. In fact, according to the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), 61% of home buyers in 2022 consisted of married couples.
Choosing the right property is a big decision, and there are a lot of factors to consider. Here are five tips to help you choose the best for your needs.
1. Determine your must-haves.
Before you even start looking at properties, it’s essential to sit down with your partner and make a list of your must-haves. What features are absolute necessities in your new home? Do you need a certain number of bedrooms? A backyard? A home office?
Once you’ve determined your must-haves, you can start narrowing down your search. For example, if you know you need at least three bedrooms, you can eliminate all properties with two or fewer bedrooms.
Regardless of your budget, it’s important to be realistic about your must-haves. If you absolutely need a particular feature, you may have to be willing to compromise on other aspects of the property, such as its location or size.
2. Consider the future.
It’s important to think about not just your current needs but also your future needs when choosing a property. If you’re planning on having more children, for example, you’ll want to ensure enough space in the home to accommodate a growing family. You’ll also want to think about things like school districts and other amenities that will be important to you as your children get older.
For instance, you can purchase a home in a good school district now, even if you don’t have children who will be attending school for several years. This way, you can be sure your children will have access to an excellent education when they’re old enough to go to school.
In addition, think about things like aging in place. If you’re planning on staying in your home for many years, you’ll want to ensure it has features that will accommodate your needs as you age. This might include things like a first-floor master bedroom or wide doorways and hallways to accommodate a wheelchair or walker.
3. Find a neighborhood that suits you.
They say location is everything, and that’s especially true regarding real estate. When choosing a property, pay close attention to things like the surrounding neighborhood, public transportation options, and proximity to schools and parks. Before making an offer, you’ll want to ensure you’re happy with the property and its location.
For example, by car, you may consider a house for sale in Manor Lakes, which is approximately 40 minutes from the nearest Central Business District (CBD). It’s also situated close to several schools, parks, and public transport options, making it a great choice for families.
Remember, you’re not just buying a property — you’re also buying into the surrounding neighborhood. So be sure to choose a location that suits your needs and lifestyle.
4. Get a professional inspection.
Once you’ve found a property you’re interested in, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional before moving forward with the purchase. A professional inspector will be able to identify any potential problems with the property that you may not be able to see yourself. This can help you decide whether the property is suitable for your family.
For example, an inspector may find that the property has significant termite damage. This could end up being a major problem (and expense) down the road, so it’s important to be aware of it before you purchase the property.
In general, it’s always a good idea to get a professional inspection before buying any property, but it’s crucial when you’re buying a property for your growing family. You want to be sure the property is in good condition and won’t need any significant repairs or renovations immediately.
5. Take your time.
Making such a big decision shouldn’t be rushed—take your time throughout the entire process, from beginning to end. Look at as many properties as possible, and don’t be afraid to walk away from any offers that don’t feel right. Choosing the perfect property for your family is a major milestone—enjoy the process and trust your gut!
For example, you may find a property that you’re interested in, but the seller is pressuring you to make an offer quickly. If this happens, it’s perfectly okay to walk away from the deal. There’s no need to rush into anything, especially when such a big decision is on the line.
The same goes for the negotiation process. If you’re not comfortable with the terms of an offer, feel free to walk away or counteroffer. Again, this is a major decision—you want to be sure you’re getting the best possible deal on the property.
Purchasing a property is a huge decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Remember to consider your needs both now and in the future, find a neighborhood you love, get a professional inspection, and take your time throughout the entire process. With these tips in mind, you can find the perfect property for your growing family.
