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Buying a new home could be the single largest purchase you ever make. It’s enough to stress any home buyer and with kids in tow, things get even more complicated. In this guide from USFamilyGuide.com, you'll find some budget-friendly home-buying and moving tips for parents.
When you’re a parent — especially a parent of younger kids — you have unique criteria to consider during a home search. The first step is to explore your mortgage options. You’ll want to be in contact with lenders early in the process to determine what type of mortgages you qualify for as well as how much you can afford.
To maximize your budget, look beyond the properties that seem straight out of a home makeover show. Choosing a more modest home that may not be as glamorous or pristine gives you much-needed flexibility in a few important ways. Here are some things to consider:
Save money up-front and customize your home later. Add those expensive floors and high-end appliances so you won’t have to worry about your kids damaging them.
Get more for your dollar. You’ll thank yourself for the extra square footage or outdoor space.
Choose a home in the right neighborhood. At this stage of life, prioritizing a home’s proximity to work or desirable schools may be more important than shiplap and barn doors.
Ready to move? Whether you go the DIY route or hire professional movers will depend on your timeline, distance to your new home, and budget. But no matter which method you choose, it’s crucial to only pay to move the items you truly need. Sell or donate everything that won’t be essential in your new home. You could try hosting a yard sale or selling excess furniture on a local message board or social media group. If you can, start decluttering as soon as you begin your home search, starting with the toys and clothes your little ones have obviously outgrown.
If you have a lot of things you don’t want to get rid of but lack the space to keep them in your new home, you should consider searching the area for storage units. Keeping your possessions in a safe storage space is much more cost effective than paying for a larger living space. You can find a nearby storage facility that can hold everything you need to store without paying for extra space you don’t need.
Whether you’re new to the Greater Denver area or moving back after some time away, you’ll need to adjust to more than just the desert weather. Establishing strong social ties in your new community is crucial for both parents and kids. An easy way to make connections is to sign up for kids’ activities like dance, art, sports, or scouting. Classes sponsored by the city or a non-profit will be more affordable. If you lived in Denver previously and are moving back to your hometown, you can also reconnect with old classmates and re-establish bonds. Try looking up fellow high school graduates from Denver on social media or a search engine. Type in their name, graduation date, and school to find results and reach out to old friends.
Home buying and moving can feel hectic and overwhelming amidst work, school, and other activities. That’s why it’s crucial to stay grounded, take your time, and move through the process at a pace that feels right for you. An experienced real estate agent can offer support, advice, and recommendations to guide you through every step.
By following these tips, the process of finding the right home for you and your family can be more affordable and even enjoyable. And for more tips and helpful information, visit USFamilyGuide.com today!
