Buying a family home is one of life’s biggest decisions. It’s not just about having somewhere to live; it’s about finding a community where your household will thrive, feel safe and build lasting memories.
- Assessing what your family needs
Before you start browsing estate agent windows, take a good, honest look at everyone’s current and future needs. Consider the ages of your children – do you need to be close to good primary schools, or are you thinking about secondary school options down the line?
Think about your daily routines: is a short commute to work important to you, or do you prefer being away from the hustle and bustle? All of this should be taken into account when you decide where to base your family home in order to support everybody’s current and upcoming priorities.
- Researching potential areas
Once you have a clearer picture of what you require as a family, it’s time to investigate likely locations. This goes beyond just looking at pretty houses online. Delve into local school Ofsted reports, check crime statistics for the area and map out transport links for work and leisure.
Explore amenities available, such as local shops, healthcare facilities and parks. On top of all of this, ensure that you can actually see yourself happily living in the area. Whether virtually or in person, you should explore different neighbourhoods to get a feel for the atmosphere.
Many people put all the importance on the house alone; however, it’s crucial you truly love the area before relocating your loved ones there.
- Accounting for the property market and affordability
Understanding what you can realistically afford and how it aligns with estate prices in the places you are interested in is fundamental.
Consider that property values can vary significantly even within the same region. For example, you might find that exploring new builds in Cumbria or other areas further from major urban centres could offer more affordability compared to properties in the Southeast.
Keep in mind the long-term investment potential of different locations and factors that might influence property value in the future. Again, finding the right place for you is a balancing act between what you value and what you can or are willing to pay for.
- Making the move
After careful consideration and several visits, it’s time to weigh up all the information you’ve gathered. Discuss your findings as a family and consider which location best ticks the main boxes for everyone.
Choosing the right location is a long-term decision, so take your time to ensure you feel confident in your choice.
