Buying a New Home in Preparation for Your New Arrival

You’re pregnant?  Congratulations!  Having a baby is going to fulfil you like nothing else ever has. And it’s also going to turn your life upside down.   But before you go out and start splashing out on the latest state-of-the-art baby gear, think first.  This is no time to take out bad credit loans like heaping on the credit card debt or taking out personal loans from loan sharks.

Becoming a parent is one of the biggest responsibilities you’ll ever carry, so this is the time in your life where you’re going to think good credit like a home loan.  Especially when that nesting instinct kicks in.

So much is about to change. You are going to make a whole new set of friends.  You might consider giving up work or negotiating flexi-time if your current job is too demanding.  And that apartment that was so perfect when you were just a couple of lovebirds may feel a bit squashed once your bundle of joy comes into the world.

Here are a few points you may want to consider when choosing a new home.

Neighbourhood

While staying in the heart of a city centre is ace when you’re a young couple enjoying the nightlife, it’s generally not the greatest place to raise a child – or the cheapest.

To access more space, fresh air, parks and good Schools, you’ll probably have to consider moving to a nice, green, leafy suburb a little outside the CBD.

When you come to think of it, there are plenty of good reasons why families move to the suburbs.

Did I mention life was going to change somewhat?

House vs Apartment

Children love playing outdoors so having your own garden is ideal. You can probably get away with no garden if there’s a park or field nearby or you live close to a Beach or river.

Houses also tend to have bigger rooms and more rooms (if you’re planning a big family) than most apartments.

Security

The safety of your children is also a huge concern, so you’ll want to look for a home that has inbuilt security, like an alarm system, security cameras and a friendly neighbourhood watch.

Moving into a security estate or complex can remove a lot of worry for parents.

Support

They say it takes a village to raise a child.  Which is why this is a time in life when many women considering moving closer to their Mom, sister or best friend.  If you can’t get the help of family or friends, you’ll want to be in a community that cares.

Think Long-Term

Moving house is a mission, so if you’re planning a big family (and you can afford it) or if you have a High School or College in mind that you want them to attend, it’s best to make the right move upfront.

What to do with your old home?

Unless you were renting before, you’ll probably have to sell or rent out your old home before you can buy your new one.

You might have to sell a few other things too.  Your toys are about to make way for theirs.

Becoming a parent is nature’s magic trick to mature you into a responsible adult.  But don’t worry, you’ll also get to relive your childhood and have loads of fun when you play with your little one.