For the first-time homebuyer parent, it can be easy to forget kid-friendly homebuying. As you search for the right number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, and appliances, you may need to remember about lesser-remembered features that impact your family as a whole.
Homebuying mistakes often stem from rushing to find the perfect home. That's why it is essential to consider your day-to-day activities and ask yourself about neighbor friendliness, safe and quiet streets where your kids might play, and looking toward the future expansion of your family.
In today's blog post, we touch on the easy-to-forget considerations that will make your family life easier after you move into your new home.
It's easy to forget to check this one off the list, but schools are a top priority. Even if your little ones are still tots, the quality of schools should be on your radar. A good school district can shape your child's future.
Pro Tip: Use online resources to compare school performance, and don't shy away from asking parents in the neighborhood for their honest opinions.
Here's one of the homebuying mistakes many folks kick themselves for later. Think about space--not just for now, but for five or ten years. Will you still fit? Or if the family grows, will you wish you had an extra bedroom or a larger living area?
Pro Tip: Consider a house with a flexible space that can become a work-from-home office, nursery, or additional bedroom.
Outdoor space is gold for families. It's a place for your kids to burn off energy and enjoy the sunshine. If the yard's small, it's not a deal-breaker--just know your alternatives.
Pro Tip: No yard? Ensure a park is within walking distance or a safe community space for outdoor play.
Take notice of this one. One of the homebuying mistakes parents sometimes make is avoiding safety hazards like a pool without a fence or high uncarpeted stairs. Keep your kid's safety in your house-hunting checklist.
Pro Tip: Do a walkthrough with kid safety in mind, and consider where special child safety features can be installed.
The vibe of the neighborhood can make or break your family's happiness. A family-friendly community means your kids have playmates, and you have a support network right outside your door. This is often ignored and becomes one of the costly homebuying mistakes.
Pro Tip: Chat with neighbors during your house hunt to gauge the friendliness and amenities of the community.
As a first-time homebuyer, you might find costs that surprise you. Not accounting for these additional costs is one of the homebuying mistakes one can make. There's more to a home's cost than the sale price. Remember to factor in things that include taxes and property maintenance.
Pro Tip: Ask your realtor about your area's average utility costs, property taxes, and homeowner association fees.
Nowadays, having space for a home office is almost as crucial as having a place for the kids to play. But remember, you don't need an enormous house to create this balance. That's one of the homebuying mistakes people make as they go for a house bigger than what's required.
Pro Tip: Consider a home with a dedicated workspace or even a large walk-in closet that you can transition into an in-home office.
As you approach the finish line in your search as a first-time homebuyer, remember to pause and look ahead. You avoid those common homebuying mistakes by planning for the present and future.
Think long-term about your family's needs, and you can secure a home that's not just a place to stay but to make lasting memories. With some foresight and careful consideration, you can ensure your new house will suit your family for many happy years.
Usually, 1-2% of the home purchase price is a budget for maintenance and repairs. By doing so, you can account for the unexpected issues as well.
Yes, getting pre-approved is a smart move. It shows sellers you're serious and capable of buying the home, which can be a big advantage in a competitive market.
A good credit score can ensure favorable loan terms. You can save a lot of money over the life of your loan.
Looking at similar home sales in your area will help you gauge a fair deal, look at sold homes similar to yours in the area. You can also hire an appraiser for an expert opinion on the home's value.
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