Starting a family is one of the most amazing adventures you will ever embark on. A lifetime of precious memories awaits you. But it is hard work. Starting a family requires a lot of dedication and financial commitment. And one of the biggest investments you will have to make for your family is finding a home.
California is one of the best states to raise a family in. Particularly here in Sacramento. But you still need to ensure you make the right choice when picking your new family home. There are a lot of things you need to consider. This guide will walk you through all the things you need to look for in your first family home.
Location Is Everything
Everyone knows that, in real estate, location is the name of the game. Everyone wants something different from their home. Since you are looking for a family home there are a few things you need to consider above all else.
Firstly is safety. Nothing is more important than the well-being of your family. So you want to find a property with a low crime rate and lower levels of pollution. Sacramento has one of the lowest crime rates in California, especially out in the suburbs.
Secondly, you will want to look at educational access. A lot of schools base their admittance policy off location alongside grades and aptitude tests. So proximity to a good school will increase your chances of having your child admitted. Spend some time scouting nurseries and schools in the area you want to live.
Resale Value
Your first family home might not be your forever home. Changes in your situation, either financially or even by the addition of more children, could mean you need to move to a different property later in life. Which is why you should consider the resale value of your home.
The property market is always in flux. So buying in a well developed and stable area will increase your chances of making a profit when you do decide to sell. Sacramento is quite a good place for property investment. Especially since you can get cash for your home in Sacramento if you’re looking to make a quick sale. But, if you do decide to sell through an agency, make sure you do a lot of research into different companies to ensure you find the right agent for you.
You will want to invest in your home throughout the years. Improve your garden, interior decor, fixtures, windows, and insulation. All of these things will add to the resale value later while also improving the quality of life for your family.
Social Life
You will want to ensure that both you and your family have access to ample social opportunities. Children will spend most of their time socializing at school. But that shouldn’t be the only time they do. Ideally you will want to live in an area that has access to other recreational activities and areas.
Properties that are near to parks are a good choice. And, if possible, you will want somewhere with a short travel distance to downtown as well. Scout out the local area and see what restaurants, bars, social clubs, swimming pools, and shops are nearby. Remember, you will want somewhere that provides lots of social opportunities for you as well. Not just for your children.
Adequate Space
Starting a family will take up, not just a lot of your time and money, but space as well. They will need lots of space to run around and play in. You will need a dining area and a kitchen. And, if possible, a garden too.
Studies have shown that living in an overly cramped environment can have negative effects on your mental and physical health. Children leave their toys out all the time creating a lot of trip hazards. And, without enough space to explore and run around, your child will become restless and cranky.
You will also want to plan for the future. Having a spare room in your family home is always a good idea. It could serve as storage space, a dedicated home office, a home gym, or even as a potential second bedroom for any future children you are planning to have.
If you are thinking of adding a pet to your home then you will definitely need more space. Cats don’t require as much space as dogs, but you will still want them to be comfortable. A big garden is ideal for owning a dog. Plus, studies have shown that children with access to a home garden are often happier.
