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Buying with kids? Questions you might not have thought to ask yourself

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner Gillum Group Real Estate

Looking for a new home for your family? Here are 4 questions to ask yourself before you buy:

 

1.  Does the floor plan work for us?

Do you want the master bedroom on the same level as the kids' rooms?  If so, avoid homes with "Main Floor Master".  If you want to be able to spy on your toddler while you're busy in the kitchen look for homes with an open floor plan.  Have enough toys to fill a toy store?  Look for a home with a designated space for the toy/play room.

 

2.  What's the scoop on the neighborhood?

If you've found a good home prospect, you'll want to test out the neighborhood.  Drive around the neighborhood during rush hour to get a feel for heaviest traffic in the area.  Visit during the evening/night time.  Does it seem safe and quiet?  Are there other young families on the block?  Do you feel comfortable there?

 

3.  Will the yard fit our needs?

Is the yard easily accessible?  Is it safe for your kids to play in?  Can you see them in the yard from inside the home?  Could you set up a swingset or pool in the yard?  If your kids are going to be playing in the yard alot, is it easy to maintain? 

 

4.  What about the schools?

With very young children (babies/toddlers) schools might not be the first thing you think about when buying a new home.  But you should.  The school years will come quick and you want to be sure you're satisfied with the schools they will be attending.  Check the quality of the zoned public schools.  Would your kids have access to a school bus if they needed one?  If they plan to walk to school make sure the route is safe with as little traffic as possible.  Make sure you are comfortable with the length & route of the commute to and from school if you will be driving them.

Andrew Mooers | 207.532.6573
MOOERS REALTY - Houlton, ME
Northern Maine Real Estate-Aroostook County Broker

Gets the kids on board early too, they help the sale. Don't ignore them!

Sep 24, 2014 07:42 AM
Dan Edwards 425-276-7008
Keller Williams Realty - Bellevue - Bellevue, WA

I like your take on this. When you have kids that's really  one of the first thing that you consider when buying a home. 

Sep 24, 2014 08:19 AM