Planning on moving to a larger property? Here are the key factors you need to take into account.

What should I focus on when buying a larger property?

Many people upsize because they are starting a family or have a growing family. Either way, you are likely to be there for many years, so it’s important to future-proof your decision in terms of two fundamentals: the property and location. You need to make sure that the house works for you and your family in the immediate future and for many years to come.

What if we are new to the area?

Whether you are staying in the same area or moving to a new one, you need to find out what your journey to work from your new home will be like, where the local GP and dentist are, and where the best nurseries and schools are located, among other things. We help people visualise their family life in the area.

So, we need a house that works for a toddler and a teenager?

Clearly, you have to find a home you love, but you should also consider the logistics of the house for a family at different life stages – particularly given how expensive it is to move. If you have very young children, for example, you might find it useful to have a downstairs toilet while potty training.

As children get older, you will need space for outdoor activities (or proximity to open spaces), school equipment and room for teenagers to have their own time out. When they’re older, you probably don’t want to be a taxi service running them around. This is where location can again play an important role in terms of being close to a town or public transport.

How else can I future-proof the move?

Some buyers now factor in additional accommodation. This might be for someone outside the immediate family  – such as a nanny – or for grandparents to stay for a weekend.

Moving house is exciting, but it can be stressful – particularly with a young family. That’s why we like to sit down and understand your housing needs and your schedule. That way, we can be flexible around your working day or sensitive to times when little ones are having an afternoon nap or when children get home from school.

Further information

Discover more from our latest video series, Voices of Experience, in which a selection of our property experts share their tips on moving in response to a new life chapter.