3 Things to Look For When You’re Buying a New Home as a Parent
Buying a home is a big step, no matter what stage of life you’re in. When you’re expecting a little one or you already have kids, though, buying a new home is a completely different ball game.
You’re not just buying a property based on personal taste, you’re buying something that will let your family grow and thrive. Your needs change when you have kids, and that includes what you should look for in a home. As you navigate the housing market, however, it’s important to look for a house with your kids in mind to help you in this journey called parenthood.
1. A Safe Environment
Your number one priority when you have a home with kids should always be to keep them safe. While there are things you can do to almost any home to improve its safety, it’s easier to look for a home that already has certain safety features set up. Moving is stressful enough. You don’t want to have to immediately make repairs and upgrades once you move in.
There are potential hazards both inside and outside most homes, but some properties already have safety measures in place to keep your whole family secure, including:
- Fencing around the yard
- Locks and gates around a pool area
- Doors that close off stairways
- High kitchen counters
- Updated wiring and appliances
Your home checklist might also include things like a security system, which you can certainly install on your own. However, if the home you’re considering already has one, consider it a bonus that you don’t have to invest more money into.
2. Smart Technology
As well as utilizing the technology of a security system, you might also want to look for smart homes.
In the U.S., the number of smart homes on the market is expected to reach 77 million by 2025. Smart homes tend to make things more convenient, which is a huge plus when you have kids. In addition, they have also revolutionized home maintenance by making it easier to keep track of everyday issues, so they don’t get out of hand.
For example, installing an energy monitor in your home will help you to reduce your carbon footprint by giving you data about your family’s energy use. You can use smart light bulbs to lower your utility bills even when your kids forget to turn the lights off. The same goes for smart toilets, showers, and even plugs and power strips. These technologically advanced items make it easier to keep your home up-to-date, well-maintained, and more convenient for everyone.
3. Room to Grow
One of the best things you can do when looking for a house is to keep it simple. Think about things that are kid-friendly and will make it easy for everyone to fall in love with your living space if you ever decide to sell. For example, looking for a big backyard to install a swingset or a spacious extra room for a playroom is a great opportunity to make your kids and potential future buyers happy if you ever want to sell and upgrade your house for more room.
That being said, if you plan on having more kids and want to stay put, you should also take a look at the size of the house you're currently looking at. Consider things like:
- Storage space
- Yard size
- How many bedrooms
- Finished basement
- Garage spaces
Location is also important when you have kids – especially if you plan on having more. Take a look at the local neighborhood, and yourself the important questions. Is it safe? Are there things you can do as a family? What is the reputation of the local school district?
When you have children, it’s important to think about more than the present. Focusing on the future will help you feel more confident in your decision when you finally decide on a new home. Keep these factors in mind when you’re house hunting as a parent, and you can watch your kids grow up in the safety and comfort of your perfect home.