Last Updated on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 by Lavania Oluban
Moving house as a family isn’t just about finding a place that looks good on the outside. You need a home where daily life works for everyone. Maybe you’re welcoming a new baby, or perhaps your teens have finally outgrown the box room. Either way, choosing the right home can shape everything from your commute to your weekend routines. Here are some key things to weigh up before you commit.
Choose the right location
The old saying ‘location, location, location’ exists for a reason. Think beyond today and consider how your area will serve you in five or ten years. Is there a good school within walking distance? Will your commute still feel manageable if your job changes? Families often prioritise safe streets, nearby parks, and an abundance of local shops rather than a food desert, because no one wants to drive 20 minutes just to grab a pint of milk.
Define your must-haves and nice-to-haves
Knowing your non-negotiables will stop you wasting weekends viewing the wrong houses. Do you need a home office? Is a spacious kitchen for family dinners a necessity? For most families, gardens are at the top of the list. Perhaps a trampoline for the kids now, a vegetable patch later. And it’s really worth considering new build homes, which offer modern layouts designed with family living in mind, from open-plan spaces to extra storage.
Budget for the whole picture
It’s so easy to get dazzled by a dream house, but the reality is that the numbers need to add up. Beyond the purchase price, factor in solicitor fees, stamp duty (keeping in mind recent changes to threshold levels), moving costs, and the inevitable DIY projects that will crop up once you move in. A realistic budget leaves room for life’s surprises, such as the boiler breaking just after Christmas or realising that you need blackout blinds for every bedroom because the sun is too strong.
Think about the future
A family home should grow with you. If you’re planning more children, think about whether the house you’re looking at has room for an extra bedroom or offers flexible living space. If your family is older, consider how rooms might be repurposed once the kids move out. A small bedroom could become a library, or a playroom might evolve into a home gym.
Choosing the perfect family home means balancing location, needs, budget, and future plans. By thinking practically now, you’ll end up with a space that supports your family’s life, not just today, but for years to come.
