I’m a Real Estate Agent: 8 Home Features You Need If You’re Expanding Your Family
Written by
Cindy Lamothe
Edited by
Chris Cluff
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Expanding your family is an exciting time — and one when you’re probably considering whether you need to equally expand your living situation.
When looking for a new home, it’s important to do your homework first and take specific features into consideration.
GOBankingRates spoke with real estate experts Jonathan Carcone, owner of 4 Brothers Buy Houses, and Dennis Shirshikov, head of growth at Summer, to discuss their top recommendations for what to look for in a new home.
Number of Bedrooms
When looking for a new house to accommodate your growing family, the number of bedrooms is an important factor to consider, Carcone said.
“It’s essential to have enough bedrooms for each family member and even some extra rooms for guests or potential future additions to the family,” he said, adding that a general rule of thumb is to have one bedroom per adult couple and one additional bedroom per child.
“This way, you won’t quickly outgrow your home and will avoid having to move again in the near future.”
Size of Living Spaces
According to Carcone, it’s also crucial to have spacious living areas that can comfortably fit your family.
“This includes the living room, dining room and kitchen areas,” he said. “These spaces should be able to accommodate large furniture pieces and leave enough room for movement and activities.”
He added that it’s also beneficial to have an open floor plan that allows for flexibility in arranging furniture as your family grows.
Shirshikov agreed that ample space and flexible floor plans are essential.
“One of the most important features to look for is sufficient space to accommodate a growing family,” he said. “This includes not only the number of bedrooms but also the flexibility of the floor plan. Homes with open layouts and multifunctional rooms allow for easy adaptation as your family’s needs change.”
Outdoor Space
“For families with young children or pets, having a backyard or outdoor space is essential,” Carcone said. “This provides a safe area for children to play and for pets to roam around freely.”
He advised looking for a property with a decent-sized yard that can be utilized for outdoor activities such as gardening, playing sports or hosting gatherings.
Location in a Family-Friendly Neighborhood
“When searching for a new house, it’s crucial to consider the location of the property within a family-friendly neighborhood,” Carcone said.
This means looking at factors such as nearby schools, parks, recreation centers and other amenities that are suitable for families.
Carcone added, “It’s also essential to research the safety and security of the neighborhood to ensure your family feels comfortable living there.”
Shirshikov agreed: “Safety and a family-oriented community are paramount. Look for neighborhoods with low crime rates, well-maintained parks, playgrounds and community centers.”
Additionally, he said to consider the availability of sidewalks and bike paths for safe outdoor activities.
Storage Space
“As your family grows, so will your belongings,” said Carcone.
“Therefore, having ample storage space is vital when choosing a new home.”
He recommended looking for properties with closets, cabinets, and storage areas that can accommodate your family’s possessions without feeling cluttered or cramped.
“Expanding families accumulate a lot of stuff over time,” said Shirshikov. “From baby gear to sports equipment. Homes with ample storage solutions such as walk-in closets, built-in shelving, and large garages can help keep the house organized and clutter-free.”
Proximity to Work and Other Essential Locations
“Another factor to consider when looking for a new house is its proximity to your workplace and other essential locations such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and hospitals,” Carcone highlighted.
“This will help save time on daily commutes and make it easier to access necessary services when needed.”
According to Shirshikov, it’s also important to consider proximity to quality schools and childcare.
“Location is crucial when planning for an expanding family,” he noted. “Being close to high-quality schools and childcare facilities can significantly enhance your family’s lifestyle and convenience.”
He recommended researching school districts and considering the commute times to daycare centers or schools as essential.
Future-Proofing Features
“Look for homes with features that will be beneficial as your family grows older, such as additional bathrooms, potential for home office space, or accessibility features for elderly family members,” Shirshikov said.
“Future-proofing your home can save you the hassle and cost of moving or renovating later on.”
Energy Efficiency and Low Maintenance
“Homes with energy-efficient features and low maintenance requirements can save you money and reduce stress in the long run,” Shirshikov added. “Look for modern HVAC systems, insulated windows and low-maintenance landscaping.”
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