When it comes to house hunting with a family in mind, square footage and school districts are likely at the top of your priority list. Here are a few additional things to consider as you search for the perfect next place for you and your family.
Floor plan.
An open floor plan makes it easy to keep an eye on little ones from a variety of areas in your home. When my daughter was a baby, I loved that I could make dinner in the kitchen and still see her playing in the living room. For families with older children, you may want to consider split bedrooms – a master bedroom that is located separately from the children’s rooms – for added privacy. Homes with an in-law suite are great for multi-generational living or families with frequent or long-term out-of-town guests.
Walkability.
Walkability is the measure of how friendly a neighborhood is for walking, an enjoyable and healthy leisure activity for many families. Walk or drive through your prospective neighborhood to ensure there are sidewalks and crosswalks. You can also search online to find a “walk score” for your neighborhood.
Bicycle-Friendly.
Children love riding their bikes, and it’s important they have a safe place to do so. Biking to and from work or nearby errands is also a healthy and environmentally-friendly alternative to driving for older teens and adults. Before purchasing a home, make note of any major streets, highways or intersections nearby that your child may need to cross or navigate on their way to school or a friend’s house. Notice if there are designated bike lanes and search online for bike paths that make it easier to get around your city on two wheels.
Nearby parks and playgrounds.
Having your own backyard play set is fun for families with younger kids, but the investment can be more than many want to spend for the few years it will be in use. Instead, look for a home within walking distance of a park or playground. Spending time at a neighborhood playground is not only a great way for children to burn off energy, but it’s also a wonderful way to meet other families in your area.
Finding a new home for your family is an exciting time. Keeping in mind how your family likes to live, interact, and play will help you find the perfect place. Visit Homes.com to start your real estate search today!
Dusty Rogers is the blogger, mother, maker, decorator and drinker of the wine at All Things G&D - a lifestyle blog where home décor, DIY and organization, healthy meals and kid-friendly snacks, party planning and entertaining all happily play together in the sandbox. Dusty lives in Madison, WI with her husband Greg and their daughter Kate, and she spends her days balancing high maintenance tendencies with a desire to keep things simple.