Every homebuyer has their own individual and unique list of wants, needs and preferences. But many Canadian families find that they share many of the same priorities when it comes to choosing a home. If you’re searching for a new home for your family, here is our Top 5 list of what to look for, to help you find a property that’s both affordable and family-friendly.
1. A safe, quiet neighbourhood
Look for neighbourhoods that have low crime rates, lots of other families, a strong sense of community, and where the streets and sidewalks feel safe for your children to run and play. If you aren’t familiar with the city where you’ll be doing your house-hunting, ask your REALTOR® which neighbourhoods are traditionally the most open and welcoming for families.
2. Proximity to schools, parks and recreation
We all know how busy life with kids can get. So prioritize looking for homes in areas that have good schools, which are close to parks or other green spaces, and which offer quick and convenient access to things like recreational facilities, libraries, community centres, grocery stores and public transit.
3. Big back yard or other outdoor spaces
If it fits within your budget, choose a home that either has a big enough fenced-in yard to throw a ball around and host weekend family barbecues, or which is close enough to outdoor green spaces where you can take the kids for fun and fresh air on a regular basis.
4. Plenty of room to grow
Depending on the size of your family, this could mean making sure each of the kids has a bedroom of their own. For others, it could simply mean finding a property that has lots of built-in storage, plenty of space to play, and a large enough laundry room to handle all those family-sized loads.
5. A layout that works for everyone
Last but not least, work with your REALTOR® to find a home where the interior layout works for both the adults and the kids.
This can include looking for a house where the bedrooms are all on one level, the flooring and finishes are easy to clean (and strong enough to hold up under regular wear and tear), and the floor plan is open enough to let you keep an eye on the kids while cooking dinner in the kitchen. Or it could mean finding a property that offers family-focused bonus features like an all-season mudroom, a functional entryway, and stairs that are safe, secure and easy to use.
Questions?
Are there any other family-friendly features you want in your next home that aren’t included here? Email us your questions or contact us for a free consultation!
The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of either the Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) or the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB). Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS® logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB.