Purchasing a family home is a huge life decision for any family, but it can become even more daunting when you have children to think about. As a parent, you want to find the perfect home to house your family – one that will meet all your needs now and still leave room to grow as your children get older. Here’s a guide on everything you need to know about purchasing a home with kids in mind.

Key Takeaways:

Think about your family’s current needs and future growth in determining how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need. Consider each child’s gender and age differences.

Be on the lookout for family-friendly neighbourhoods in neighbourhoods close to playgrounds, parks and good schools. Being near activities and other families is important.

Setting safety as the highest priority. Make sure the home and yard are safe for little kids. Look out for things you might need to avoid, such as swimming pools, roads etc.

Prepare your budget for items relating to kids: childproofing, furniture, play areas, and future renovations. Familiarize yourself with the rebuilding process.

Bring the kids toys and snacks, along with devices to keep them busy while you house hunt. Asking for their input makes them feel included.

If you have school-age children, move your focus to sorting through school districts, taking all factors such as commute times from homes into consideration. Make an effort to meet teachers and parents.

A larger yard for play equipment, sports practice, pets, gardening and entertaining. Leave room to grow.

Look for space to stash kids’ toys, books, clothes and gear when touring homes. Consider space for older kids — private space.

When moving with toddlers or babies, make sure safety precautions such as secured pools, gates, outlet covers and cabinet locks are in place.

How Many Bedrooms and Bathrooms Do You Need?

The first of these is how many bedrooms and bathrooms your home should have that needs to be comfortable for your family in your new adventure of buying a house and kids. Here are a few things to think about:

Consider gender and age differences among each child – If you have children of different genders, as they mature, they probably will require their bedrooms for privacy. And twins of the same sex may want their room as they approach the tween and teen years. One bedroom for every child, and another for parents.

Think about your present and future needs – Pick a home that gives you space for your family to grow and avoid having to move again for a while. If you expect more kids, make it one more bedroom for future expansion. A guest room is also helpful if they live nearby in an extended family.

Follow housing codes — In most municipalities, it is illegal for more than two children to share a bedroom if they are of different genders. Confirm your home complies with local occupancy limits.

Account for live-in helpers or family — If grandparents, au pairs or nannies live with you, include extra bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate them.

Make room for play or study – For school-aged kids, a separate playroom, study or reading nook helps to keep toys in one area as well as create space for studying and doing homework.

Add bedroom space for hobbies — Older kids will require bedroom space for musical instruments, computers and arts and crafts.

Sleepover schedule – Your kids will probably want to have sleepovers with friends as they get older. A bonus bedroom, finished basement or sectional couch can provide additional sleeping space.

You want at least one full bath for every two family members for bathrooms. Eventually, kids of opposite genders will require their spaces. And as they move into middle or high school, teens may spend more time in the bathroom.

Look For Family-Friendly Communities

When you’re searching for the ideal abode with kids in mind, don’t just focus on the house itself. The neighbourhood also contributes significantly to what your family lifestyle and activities will be. Here’s what to make sure to assess:

Parks and playgrounds in close proximity — Green space and places to play within walking distance offer up hours of outdoor fun for small children. Look for houses located near neighborhood parks that feature play equipment.

Access to recreation — The presence of community centers, pools, skate parks or sports fields nearby may help keep kids active and social throughout the year. Seasonal fun is also added by proximity to nature trails or sledding hills.

Family-oriented neighbourhoods – Being surrounded by other families helps create friendships and carpool possibilities. Inquire with real estate agents about family-friendly neighborhoods or scout for signs like sidewalk chalk art and bikes in driveways.

Community events and activities — Kid-friendly neighbourhoods might offer movies in the park, block parties, farmers markets and festivals. These help build community and provide social outlets for kids.

Good schools — Even if you aren’t ready for schools, find a community with highly regarded facilities in case you don’t move again before children are of school age.

Low crime – Safety is a major concern when house hunting with a family. Do thorough vetting of neighbourhoods to ensure low rates of crime or gang activity.

Convenience to amenities — Seek out grocery stores, doctor offices, libraries and kid-friendly eateries within close proximity for errand-runs and everyday excursions with less driving.

When it comes to raising kids, a family-oriented community definitely pays dividends. Don’t just look at the house — look at the neighbourhood lifestyle it offers.

Make Safety a Top Priority

As a parent, the safety of your children is always a primary concern when seeking out a new home. Additional emphasis on valuable features that promote home security and child safety:

Lock yard and outside doors – All entry points to the yard such as gates should have functioning latches and locks. Every outside entryway ought to be outfitted with a deadbolt. Think about installing a video doorbell or intercom system.

Secure pool area — Ensure fence (typically 48″+) around backyard pools are to codes. Be sure pool gates are self-closing and self-latching. Pool alarms and rigid covers should also be considered.

No busy streets — Avoid homes on streets with a lot of traffic or speeding issues. When near a school, intersection crossing guards are best.

Child-protective windows – If the windows are on the upper levels, those should be locked or guarded. Consider toughened glass panes and frames if they are near play areas.

Monitored alarm system – Install monitored intrusion, smoke and CO detectors. These include glass break sensors on windows or doors on the ground floor. Possess an alarm yard sign and window stickers.

Well-lit exterior — Install motion-activated lighting for all entryways, yards and driveways. “Check for any lighting around any outbuildings or play structures as well.

No poisonous plants — Pay attention to toxic species such as oleander, castor bean, foxglove and rhododendrons. Take it off or your reach of inquisitive kids.

Adequate fireplace barriers – Every indoor fireplace should have proper screens, grates and tools handy but out of reach.

Installed outlet covers — Plastic safety covers that slide into available electric outlets to keep inquisitive children from jamming objects into sockets

Cabinet and furniture anchors — Be sure heavy furniture and appliances, such as dressers, TVs and bookshelves, are anchored to studs to prevent them from tipping onto children. Use child locks for cabinets.

No peeling paint: Check for any areas of chipping or peeling paint, particularly in older homes. These may have lead and should be remediated before moving in.

And expectation of kids’ ages and stages can also be revealing of other needed safety steps. Childproofing investments offer tremendous peace of mind.

Allow a little Extra for Children’s Expenses

A home is one of the biggest purchases a person can make in their lifetime, and having children multiplies the factors that affect how much it costs to raise them. Know this: there will be unexpected costs short and long-term:

Childproofing — Once you move in, install cabinet locks, outlet covers, furniture anchors, safety gates, window guards and whatever else you need to keep your child safe.

Kid-size furniture – In kids’ rooms and play spaces, use age-appropriate stuff like small tables and seats, rocking chairs, toy storage, etc.

Beds and bedding — Give each child a mattress appropriate for their age, plus multiple sets of sheets. For younger children, it may make sense to add rail guards or dryproof mattress covers or bedside safety rails.

Backyard play equipment — Set aside money for playsets, swingsets, trampolines, climbing structures, basketball hoops and more according to your children’s proclivities. Consider the cost of safety surfacing material as well.

Sporting gear: Plan for team registration fees, uniforms, equipment such as cleats or skates and portable nets for practice.

Remodeling — At some point kids might want updates like a themed bedroom, larger closet, basement hangout or bathroom remodel.

Appliance upgrades – With kids growing up comes bigger grocery bills (think: more groceries) and more laundry. Upgrade to full-size a fridge, extra freezer and heavy-duty washer and dryer as needed.

Higher utilities — Additional residents in a house heat and cool the place more often, upping monthly bills for electric, gas and water services. Budget accordingly.

Home maintenance — More people and pets equal more wear and tear. Expect more and more appliance repairs, carpet-cleaning, yard upkeep costs and more frequent repairs at the same time.

Insurance adjustments – Up homeowner’s policy for added liability coverage. Also think about including valuable kids’ property like musical instruments, bikes and electronics.

Property taxes — If you upgrade your home, it may be worth more money, which means your annual property tax bill may increase. Factor this in.

Advance planning and budgeting helps prevent unexpected costs from expanding your family. Put safety and function ahead of fancy décor – kids are hard on houses!

Make House Hunting With Kids More Enjoyable

Hunting for a house with lively, restless kids can be a tough task. Here are some helpful tips to make the journey enjoyable and engaging for everyone:

Feed them first – Make sure everyone eats well and has snacks and drinks available in the car and between house visits. This helps prevent hunger-induced crankiness or meltdowns.

Create a “look for” list – Assign each child specific features to spot during house tours, like the number of windows, a treehouse, or a playroom. This keeps them engaged.

Let them explore – Allow children to open closets and explore the yard to feel part of the process, but establish rules about handling belongings.

Ask their input – Involve kids by asking which house they liked most and their reasons. What would they change? This way, they feel invested in the decision.

Capture photos and videos – Allow kids to use your phone or camera to take pictures or videos of the homes you tour. Reviewing these later can help refresh their memory.

New toys as rewards – After a day of house hunting, treat them to something special like ice cream or a small toy. This creates a positive association with the activity.

Child care backups – If children become overly restless or disruptive during tours, have a caregiver on standby to take them home so you can continue without interruptions.

Manage expectations – Explain that buying a house is an adult process that requires time. Set realistic timelines such as finding a home before their next birthday or the summer break.

Focus visits around kids – Conduct serious inspections when children aren’t around. Spend time together focusing on spaces, features, and neighborhoods they would enjoy.

Engaging kids in one of life’s significant milestones can make the experience positive and exciting for the whole family.

Carefully Evaluate Schools and Commuting

If your children attend school, researching options should play a crucial role in your home search. Here’s how to assess academic opportunities in potential neighborhoods:

Review rankings – Check school rating websites and published performance data for all districts and individual schools you’re considering. Look for schools with consistently high scores.

Visit open houses – Attend open house events at schools to personally experience the environment, meet staff, and observe programs. Take a campus tour if possible.

Interview administrators – Schedule a meeting with principals at top-choice schools to discuss curriculum, class sizes, support programs, and overall compatibility with your child’s needs.

Meet teachers and parents – Talk with teachers about their experience, teaching style, and partnerships with parents. Connect with parents for candid opinions on programs, activities, and areas that require improvement.

Verify accreditations – Ensure schools have recognized accreditations indicating they meet quality educational standards. Be cautious of schools without such recognition.

Compare offerings – Evaluate music, arts, sports, tech, and foreign language programs to gauge opportunities. Ensure these align with your child’s skills and interests.

Consider class sizes – Inquire about average student-teacher ratios. Larger classes often mean less individual attention and support when needed.

Weigh commute times – Consider commute lengths to each school option during peak traffic from the neighborhoods you’re exploring. Shorter, simpler commutes are optimal, especially for young children.

Review before/aftercare – Check available supervision options before and after school and during holidays. On-site programs are convenient if both parents work.

Do not underestimate how important schools and commutes are in family life. Prioritize academics and easy access to reduce daily stress.

Assess Yard Space and Potential

When house hunting with children, thoughtfully consider the outdoor space. A yard offers many roles for family activities and recreation.

Play equipment – Ensure there is space for playsets, trampolines, swings, slides, sandboxes, and other structures. Confirm there are safe distances from fences and other hazards.

Sports practice – Check if the yard allows enough open, flat space for practicing soccer, football, baseball, frisbee, etc. Nearby open fields can also be helpful.

Gardening space – Look for garden beds along the edges for kids to engage in planting and caring for flowers, vegetables, and herbs.

Pets – Consider pets that need outdoor space, ensuring your yard accommodates dog runs, cat enclosures, and areas for waste.

Entertaining – Imagine hosting events like kids’ birthday parties, BBQs, and holiday gatherings. Make sure the yard comfortably fits guests.

Outdoor living – Find room to create a patio area for dining, relaxing, and socializing. Consider features like a pool, hot tub, fire pit, or outdoor kitchen to expand living space.

Future activities – Even if your kids are young now, think ahead to how their outdoor interests may change. Leave room for future additions like climbing walls, skate ramps, or a music zone.

Privacy – Look for yards with fences or hedges. This allows kids to play freely and provides privacy as they grow.

Low maintenance – Prioritize lawn area over complex landscaping. Leave room in your budget for lawn care assistance.

A roomy yard with space to grow offers countless hours of fun for kids and helps reduce indoor chaos.

Check for Convenient Storage Spaces

With toys, bikes, clothes, sports gear, and equipment, kids amass an overwhelming amount of stuff. As you tour homes, seek ample storage to manage the clutter:

Entryway closets – Look for a closet or bench near the entry to keep coats, shoes, backpacks, and other items out of the way.

Mudroom – Homes with separate garage access often include a useful mudroom for storing outdoor clothes and dirty gear away from living areas.

Hallway closets – Find closets in hallways for coats and linens with extra shelving for kids’ things.

Bedroom closets – Ensure bedrooms have spacious closets with shelving and rods for ample clothes and shoe storage. Walk-in closets are perfect.

Garage storage – Check garages with good wall space for shelves, cabinets, hooks, and wall organizers to store kids’ extra items and gear.

Basement storage – Finished basements often have large storage rooms ideal for sports equipment, bikes, and toys not in frequent use.

Kitchen storage – Look for large pantries with shelving for snacks, lunchboxes, school project supplies, and more.

Organizational furniture – Plan for bookcases, dressers, storage ottomans, coat racks, toy boxes, and modular shelves.

Hobby storage – Make sure there’s room to safely store items like musical instruments, computers, art supplies, or collections.

Hidden nooks – Seek out under-stair or above-door shelving, unused corners, or under window ledges to creatively add storage.

For growing families, sufficient storage is essential to keep each room functional and not overtaken by kids’ belongings.

Seek Private Spaces for Older Kids

As children grow into their preteen and teenage years, the absence of privacy at home can lead to stress and irritation. When looking for homes with older kids in mind, consider personal space:

• Bedroom privacy: Ensure each child’s bedroom is separate from shared areas to allow for quiet study and relaxation. Space for hobbies and interests should also be considered.
• Bonus spaces: Finished basements, attic rooms, or a studio apartment above the garage can provide teens with the necessary distance while staying at home.
• Backyard getaways: A gazebo, garden house, or a hammock area surrounded by plants can offer outdoor privacy.
• Home office space: Convert an extra bedroom or den into a study area to provide academic privacy for homework and exam preparation.
• Reading nooks: Look for window seats, lofts, or corner benches to create inviting reading spots around the house.
• Media rooms: Find a room that can be dedicated to watching movies and gaming without interruptions from younger siblings.
• Driveway parking: Having multiple parking spots gives teens the freedom to come and go without having to move other cars.
• Locked storage: Provide locked storage solutions such as trunks, cabinets, or closets to keep valuables like electronics, money, or keepsakes safe from curious siblings.
• Bathroom locks: Having locking doors provides teens with a private space in the bathroom for grooming, long showers, or emotional moments.
• Backyard fences: Tall fences around the yard enable teens to spend time outside with friends away from onlookers.

Childproof a New Home Before Moving In

If your new home will be accommodating toddlers or babies, take these precautions before settling in:

• Install safety gates: Place hardware-mounted gates at staircases, entrances to the kitchen, and other risky areas. Use gates with banisters for the top of stairs.
• Secure cabinets and drawers: Use child safety locks on kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers containing hazardous items.
• Anchor furniture: Secure tall furniture like dressers and bookshelves with anti-tip kits to prevent them from falling over if climbed.
• Add outlet covers: Cover all unused electrical outlets with plastic guards to prevent curious fingers from reaching them. Opt for the safest designs available.
• Apply cord covers: Use protective covers on exposed electrical cords from devices like lamps and chargers.
• Install window guards: Attach window guards or stops to prevent accidental falls from upper-floor windows. Choose models with quick-release features for emergencies.
• Use oven locks: Affix latch devices to ovens and microwaves to prevent dangerous usage or climbing.
• Mount TVs securely: Properly mount flat-screen TVs to walls to avoid tipping accidents. Avoid placing CRT TVs within reach.
• Check for lead paint: In older homes, have potential lead paint areas inspected and safely treated, especially in window frames and kid’s rooms.
• Secure garage: Install high wall anchors for items like bikes and chemicals. Lock doors that lead from the garage to the house.
• Add slip-resistant decals: Apply anti-slip decals to tubs and showers to prevent falls.
• Use cushioned flooring: Consider rubber-backed rugs or low pile carpeting in play areas for safe landings.
• Check for pools: If there’s a backyard pool, install a secure, self-latching fence around it.
• Install smoke and CO detectors: Place alarms on every home level, choosing units with long-life batteries and hush features.
• Create an emergency plan: Establish a family meeting spot and inform caregivers. Clearly post emergency numbers and teach older children how to call 911.

Preparing your home thoroughly before moving with kids ensures their safety and provides peace of mind.

Make a Great First Impression on Teachers

Building positive relationships with your children’s teachers sets a strong foundation for the school year. Here’s how to make that important first impression:

• Introduce yourself: Formally introduce yourself and your child to teachers and principals early. Share some personal details to build a connection.
• Share student insights: Inform teachers about your child’s learning style, strengths, interests, and any specific needs they have.
• Ask about communication: Find out teachers’ preferred methods and frequency for updates about your child’s progress, and come to an agreement.
• Clarify expectations: Understand the classroom rules, homework policies, and behavioral standards, so you can align them at home.
• Show your support: Reassure teachers that you value your child’s education and plan to reinforce their learning at home.
• Highlight positives: Begin conversations positively by sharing your child’s excitement for school and praising the teacher.
• Volunteer availability: Express your willingness to volunteer for class activities if possible, and provide your contact information.
• Describe your availability: Share your work schedule and best contact times in case issues arise with your child unexpectedly.
• Ask for advice: Seek teachers’ guidance on how to best support learning at home, and take note of their suggestions.
• Share special needs: Privately discuss any allergies, medications, or accommodations required for your child.
• Show interest in curriculum: Ask about planned lessons and themes and mention related activities your family could do together.

Fostering early relationships with teachers shows your commitment to your child’s education.

Add Whimsy to Kids’ Rooms

Bringing whimsical touches to a child’s bedroom adds an element of wonder and sparks imagination:

• Paint a mural: Create a special wall with a hand-painted mural of your child’s current interests, like dinosaurs or outer space. Consider using glow-in-the-dark paint for added magic.
• Choose fantasy bedding: Pick bedding inspired by characters or stories featuring magical creatures or adventurous themes.
• Hang twinkle lights: Adorn the ceiling with fairy lights to emulate a night sky, and use sheer curtains to soften the effect.
• Add nightlights: Use cute nightlights shaped like animals or cartoon characters to add a gentle glow to the room.
• Showcase collectibles: Display treasured items like stuffed animals or sports trophies on lit floating shelves.
• Build a reading fortress: Create a cozy reading nook with blankets and pillows, using a tent-like setup.
• Choose fantasy mobiles: Hang mobiles above the bed featuring planets or cherished story figures.
• Include secret spaces: Add playhouses or tents for imaginative adventures, using curtains to separate areas.
• Display costumes: Install a rack for storing dress-up clothes and accessories.
• Feature fantasy art: Frame artistic pieces like fairy tale illustrations or maps of fictional lands.

Incorporating creativity and personal touches in kids’ rooms invites them into a world of imagination.

Host an Unforgettable Housewarming Event

After moving into your new residence, hosting a housewarming gathering provides a chance for kids to showcase their new space to friends and create lasting memories:

• Craft creative invitations – Let children design invites using crayons, stickers, stamps, or cut-out shapes. Either mail them or deliver by hand.
• Organize games and activities – Opt for outdoor games such as relay races, egg-and-spoon races, water balloon tosses, or scavenger hunts indoors and outdoors.
• Offer self-serve snacks – Arrange easy-to-eat snacks like fruit skewers, popcorn bars, ice cream sundaes, or DIY trail mixes and drinks. Use colorful containers for a fun display.
• Make a welcome sign – Allow kids to decorate a banner welcoming guests to your new house with acrylic paints, fabric pieces, or glitter. Display it prominently.
• Assign room guides – Give each child responsibility for 1-2 rooms to tour guests around, pointing out unique features like closet forts or bunk beds.
• Set up a photo booth – Create a decorated backdrop with props where kids can take fun selfies with guests. Offer disposable or instant cameras for photos.
• Show a movie – Following tours and games, delight kids with a recent release or a favorite family movie shown outside or projected in the garden.
• Highlight talents – Let children perform skits, sing songs, do magic tricks, or dance routines they’ve prepared especially for visitors.
• Create personalized favors – Help kids plant small seedlings or make friendship bracelets, edible dough charms, or photo frames as party gifts for each attendee.
• Conclude with a sleepover – Consider inviting a few close friends to sleep over after the party for additional fun in the new house. Set up tents for indoor camping.

Encourage children to take pride in their new home from the beginning by organizing a personalized housewarming party.

Design a Nature-Inspired Nursery

For parents who love the outdoors, a nature-themed nursery that links the baby to the environment can be a delightful and charming setting:

• Integrate greenery – Include leafy, air-purifying plants such as ferns or ivy. Display preserved moss, orchard branches, or small indoor trees.
• Incorporate natural wood – Choose furniture like solid wood cribs and dressers with beautiful, natural grain. Distressed finishes add a cozy, lived-in feel.
• Opt for camp-style bedding – Swaddle the baby in plaid, chambray, or microfiber duvets and sheets reminiscent of camping gear. Add faux fur throws for warmth.
• Install antler lighting – Hang branch or antler chandeliers for a natural lighting effect. Use wooden wall sconces or table lamps as well.
• Add stone elements – Decorate with stacked stone accents on walls or around fireplaces. Place smooth stones on shelves or windowsills.
• Choose themed wallpaper – Cover one wall with whimsical, nature-themed paper featuring trees, bears, foxes, or picturesque landscapes.
• Include rustic signs – Attach signs made from reclaimed wood inscribed with natural sayings or the baby’s woodland-themed name.
• Select rustic fabrics – Choose canvas slipcovers, thick woven curtains, plaid pillows, and cozy knit poufs to enhance the theme.
• Feature stained woodwork – Use furniture with a dark walnut stain to emulate dense forests. Distressed finishes add personality.
• Display natural finds – Arrange items like pinecones, acorns, feathers, or driftwood as reminders of nature’s beauty.

Using nature’s textures and colors in the nursery creates a calming, peaceful environment to nurture your baby.

FAQs for Buying a Home With Children

Here are answers to common questions about purchasing a home when you have kids:

• Should we buy before or after having kids?

It’s recommended to purchase a home before having children or while expecting your first. This allows you to choose a property that suits your family’s growing needs without needing to move again soon. Financing and mortgage options are generally easier pre-kids. Yet, it’s always possible to move into a larger home as your family expands.

• How many bedrooms are necessary?

Aim for at least one bedroom per child, plus a master bedroom for parents. Ensure each child has their own space, especially as they reach tween/teen years, when privacy becomes important. An additional room allows for a home office, guest accommodations, etc.

• How should we childproof a home?

For toddlers, install safety gates, anchor furniture, safeguard chemicals and medications, cover outlets, use window guards, properly mount TVs, and secure cabinets. For older kids, ensure pool security, use outlet covers, shorten cords, install smoke detectors, secure balconies, and keep toxic plants out of reach.

• Should we prioritize proximity or school quality?

Ideally, choose a neighborhood that offers both proximity and high-quality schools. If you must choose, school quality may take precedence, but consider commuting times and effects on family life. Supplement a less-than-stellar school with additional educational programs if necessary.

• How can we prepare kids for a move?

Involve your children in packing, selling or donating goods, picking paint colors, and planning their new room. Use a visual calendar to communicate timelines. Seek their opinions and emphasize positives about the new place. Reassure them about constants like their school and friends. Give time for adjustment.

• What should we budget for children-related expenses?

Budget for furnishing each child’s room, bedding, storage, play areas, childproofing, sports/hobby equipment, increased utility and water bills, appliance upgrades, routine home maintenance and repairs from wear and tear, insurance, and potential remodeling.

• How can we ensure older kids are content with a move?

Make sure their new rooms and shared spaces offer independence and privacy as they age. Incorporate their interests, like space for hobbies, a study area, cozy lounge spots, proximity to activities and friends, and outdoor features like a pool, fence, or nearby park.

Final Thoughts on Purchasing a Home with Children

Buying a home for your family is a major decision. Though it might be complicated, focusing on your children’s needs will lead you to the ideal environment for creating cherished memories. A home has a profound impact on supporting your children’s health, activities, education, values, independence, and well-being. With careful planning and budgeting, the right family home will adapt as easily as you do.

If you’re looking for a perfect family home, don’t hesitate to call Sonny Bhinder Real Estate Team at 778.234.2000