Kids are typically resistant to change so leaving their friends, school and the environment in which they feel safe is certainly something that many fight with great fervor. Including your children in the house hunting process may alleviate some of the stress, but be cautious.
If your children are younger and need a lot of attention it can be extremely distracting having to tend to their needs and answer constant questions, when you really need to focus on the decision-making process. This is one of the largest purchases you are ever likely to make so ensure that your full attention is on the home buying experience.
- Before beginning your search, make a list of ‘must haves’ that are important for the family. If possible, involve the kids in selecting a few things that would make this ‘home’ for them. Be careful not to allow them to make their requirements too specific or unrealistic otherwise you may be locked into expectations that can’t be met without letting them down. If you have already made your list, and any requirement of theirs co-inside with yours, allow them to claim it as their suggestion. This way you will all be on the same page.
- The next step is to limit the number of properties you intend viewing. Even the most ardent admires of HGTV’s House Hunters have a limit to their attention span! If babysitting options are limited and they must accompany you, spend as much time as possible online reviewing pictures, virtual tours and aerial maps of the area to ensure that the homes you select to view, fit most of your criteria.
- Many homes are not child proof so keeping an eye on what your young ones are up to can make the process less rewarding than it should be. If possible, try visiting your selections first without them and short list the ones that deserve a follow up look. Taking them with you on the second showing means that if they absolutely love a specific home and you are already considering it yourself, it may make the decision easy.
- Giving your child a task to perform can help to include them. Have them take pictures or write notes on the listing pages so that you can recap together later. It will not only keep them engaged and occupied while you visit the homes, but also make them feel part of the process.
- Always keep in mind that this is someone’s home so be cognitive at all times of where they are and what they might be exploring.
As important as it is for children to know that their opinions matter, it is imperative they understand that the final decision rests with the adults. Set the right expectations up front and you will have their ultimate buy in with the choice of your new home.
