Family first: important things to consider when buying a home
Buying a home is a significant decision that goes beyond the four walls and a roof; it’s about creating a haven for your family, a place where memories are made and bonds are strengthened. The process of choosing a home involves careful consideration of various factors, from location and budget to the size and layout of the property. In this article, we delve into the crucial aspects of putting family first when buying a home, emphasizing the importance of creating a space that not only meets your current needs but also nurtures the growth and well-being of your family for years to come.

Location, location, location
The adage “location, location, location” holds, especially when it comes to putting your family first in the home-buying process. The neighbourhood you choose significantly impacts your family’s daily life, from schools and amenities to safety and community atmosphere. Proximity to good schools ensures your children receive quality education, and nearby parks and recreational areas contribute to their physical and social development. Additionally, consider the safety of the neighbourhood, including crime rates and traffic conditions. Engaging with the local community is vital, as a supportive neighbourhood enhances your family’s overall well-being. By prioritising location, you lay the foundation for a nurturing environment that fosters the growth and happiness of your loved ones.
Creating space for growth and harmony
The size and layout of your home play a crucial role in accommodating your family’s evolving needs. When purchasing a home, think beyond the immediate requirements and consider the long-term. If you’re planning to expand your family or anticipate the need for additional space, opting for a home with extra bedrooms or the potential for expansion ensures that your home remains a comfortable haven as your family grows. The layout is equally important, emphasising open spaces that facilitate communication and togetherness. A well-designed kitchen and communal areas promote family bonding, creating spaces where shared experiences and quality time take precedence. By choosing a home with foresight into the future, you contribute to the harmonious development of your family life.
Balancing dreams and financial stability
While it’s natural to dream of an ideal home, aligning those aspirations with financial prudence is crucial. Establishing a realistic budget is key to putting family first in the home-buying process. Consider the initial purchase price and ongoing expenses such as property taxes, maintenance, and utilities. Striking a balance between your dream home and financial stability ensures that your family can enjoy the comforts of home without compromising your overall well-being. Working closely with a financial advisor and exploring various mortgage options allows you to make informed decisions that align with your family’s financial goals. You create a foundation for a secure and thriving family life by approaching the home-buying process with financial wisdom.
Informed decision-making
Navigating the real estate market can be daunting, especially when considering the numerous factors involved in purchasing a family home. Seeking guidance from property experts in Glen Waverley or any area you are considering can be a game-changer in making informed decisions. These experts possess valuable insights into the local market trends, property values, and potential growth areas. By consulting with professionals familiar with the Glen Waverley real estate landscape’s intricacies, you better understand the opportunities and challenges specific to that community. Their expertise can guide you in identifying hidden gems and negotiating favourable deals. Collaborating with property experts enhances your decision-making process and aligns your choices with your family’s unique needs and aspirations. This personalised approach ensures that your home-buying journey is a sound investment and a step towards creating a cherished family haven.
Adapting to changing family needs
Consider the adaptability of your chosen home to your family’s changing needs over time. Opt for features that offer flexibility, such as a spare room that can serve as a home office or a multipurpose space for various activities. Forward-thinking investments, like energy-efficient appliances and sustainable technologies, not only contribute to a greener environment but also save on long-term operational costs. By future-proofing your investment, you ensure that your family home remains a dynamic and accommodating space as your needs evolve, ultimately fostering a sense of continuity and stability for your loved ones.

Embracing Community Values
Beyond the physical attributes of a home, the community values and lifestyle of the area play a vital role in shaping your family’s experiences. Engage with local events, clubs, and organisations to foster connections within your community. This involvement contributes to a sense of belonging for your family, providing opportunities for shared experiences and friendships. By embracing the values of your community, you enrich the overall quality of life for your family, creating a network of support and camaraderie that goes beyond the walls of your home.
In the pursuit of a family home, it’s essential to approach the decision-making process with a holistic perspective. By prioritising location, size, layout, budget, expert guidance, future-proofing, and community values, you pave the way for a home that meets your immediate needs and stands the test of time. The investment in a family home is not just a financial one; it’s an investment in the well-being and happiness of your loved ones. Through thoughtful consideration and careful planning, you can create a haven where your family thrives, building a lifetime of memories in a place filled with warmth, love, and the true essence of “home.”

![[AD] We’re a cricket-mad family, so we’re buzzing that @thehundred is back this August! 🏏🔥
To get ready, M tried out the official FREE Activity Pack — and it’s brilliant! 🙌
Packed with fun games, creative challenges and sporty tasks, it’s perfect for getting kids hyped whether you’re at home or on the go.
👉Download yours now (link in bio)
@londonspirit @ovalinvincibles #EveryMomentCounts #TheHundred
#EnglandCricket #CricketFamily #TheHundredCricket #LondonBloggers #Cricket #CricketIsLife #kidsfun](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/505472555_18531279601016840_7092520074819907569_n-180x320.jpg)



![[AD - Press visit]
We enjoyed the glorious sunshine this weekend with a trip to Brighton. We went on the @brightoni360official which is right by the sea front.
The i360 pod take a slow journey up, allowing you to take in views across Brighton and the South Downs 450ft above ground. There’s a bar inside with drinks and snacks available to purchase and the experience lasts 25 minutes.
Afterwards, we headed to the open air roller rink for a roller skating session!
The roller rink is:
⭐ Suitable for over 5s
⭐ £6.50 if you have your own skates or £9.50 if you need to hire them
⭐ 45 minutes per session
Full details to visit the i360 + skating
📍 Brighton i360, Lower Kings Road, Brighton BN1 2LN
🚗 Parking nearby (we parked in the Regency Square Car park)
🎟️ Prices start from £25.40 for an adult and £16.90 for a child
🕐 Opening hours are currently Sun-Fri 10.30am-18.30pm and until 19.30pm on Saturdays
☕️ Bar inside the i360, cafe and gift shop
Book tickets here:
https://tickets.brightoni360.co.uk/tickets/?_ga=2.195305772.1869001490.1689671753-1757164059.1689671753/#events?eventid=157](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/417980235_313576471048632_3682382982231216432_n.jpg)

![[AD] ***Summer of fun at Barracudas Activity Camps!****
There is plenty for kids to do at @barracudas_activity_day_camps
From Tennis, Archery, Swimming, Motor Sports and more you can be sure that there will be something for kids aged 4.5-14. ⚽🏈🥅🎾🏓🏎️🏹🏊♂️🏉
You can book on a day by day basis - so it can fit in with any other days out/activities you have planned and there are early drop off and late pickup options available. Barracudas are also Ofsted registered so you can use your Childcare Vouchers too.
⭐⭐⭐Get £20 off a week or £4 off a day using my discount code: MARIA20⭐⭐⭐
#BarracudasActivityDayCamp #BarracudasActivityCamp #BarracudaAmbassadors #SummerHolidays #SchoolHolidays #Summer2023 #SummerCamp #DayCare #Camp #KidsCamp #surreymummy #surreymums #SummerOfFun #ActivityCamps #HolidayCamps #Childcare #SchoolHolidays #schoolholidaycamps](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/353583570_625625966167953_545896259645102575_n.jpg)



![[AD] We have some super exciting news...we have been chosen to be Laser Quest Ambassadors, and the boys are over the moon!
We are really lucky that our local Laser Quest (@laserquestkingston) is just around the corner from us. It means we can pop in of a weekend or anytime during the school holidays, and with summer just around the corner, I know Laser Quest will be one of our go-to places for some family fun.
As well as games of Laser Quest, there are also VR experiences and arcade amusements too. To find out a bit more about how Laser Quest works, you can read my blog post: https://www.suburban-mum.com/laser-quest-kingston/ (clickable link in bio)
Don't forget to keep an eye out for our Laser Quest posts - I'm going to be giving away two family passes to use at Laserquest Kingston!
If you can't wait and want to head down to Laser Quest to try it out, use the code SUMMER30 for 30% off your booking. The code is valid from now until the end of August 2023 and can be used on Laser Quest games and birthday party bookings.
#LaserquestAmbassador #Laserquest #LaserquestKingston #ActivitiesForKids #FamilyFun #DaysOutWithKids #Lasertag #LaserquestVR #Kingston #ThingsToDoInKingston #SurreyFamilyDaysOut #ThingsToDoWithKids #RainyDayFun #SurreyMummy #SurreyLife #LifeWithKids #LifeWithBoys #familyfunday](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/353230107_797358078406942_2405522556733455165_n.jpg)

![[AD] The sun has finally made an appearance and the boys have been making the most of it by spending it
in the garden.
They’re go-to is always football and they’ve been trying to improve their aim and accuracy with the new Messi Foldable Footlball goal from the #MessiTrainingSystem range.
I love the fact the goal is foldable, making it easy to store away when not in use. It is also lightweight so you can effortlessly pack it up and take it to the park or to a friend’s house.
The Messi Foldable Football Goal retails at £36 and can be purchased from @argos
You can read my full review here: https://www.suburban-mum.com/messi-foldable-football-goal/
#TrainLikeMessi #FoldableFootballGoal #FootballSkills #OutdoorFun #LionelMessi #LeoMessi #FootballAtHome #OutdoorKids #JustGetOutside #OutdoorsAndFree #ScreenFreeKids #WhateverTheWeatherKids @flair_gp](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/341194882_615024710178056_41977149395989448_n.jpg)

![[AD] We are absolutely thrilled to announce that we are Barracuda Ambassadors again this year.
With Easter just around the corner, the boys were sent the @barracudas_activity_day_camps new camp kit in preparation for the school holidays.
There’s a wide range of activities for kids aged 4.5 - 14 including Tennis, Archery, Basketball, Arts & Crafts and more.
If you like the sound of Barracudas, find out more over on their website. You can also save £20 a week or £4 a day, using my discount code: MARIA20](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/336812306_765234558514317_685553691647241974_n.jpg)


![[AD - Gifted]
Last weekend we were invited to try out @tsarettaspice’s new Bottomless Brunch menu and I can tell you it was thumbs up all round!
There’s a good choice tapas on offer from Punjabi fish fingers, Indo Chinese Chicken to Spiced Lamb Scotch Eggs and Manchurian Cauliflower (which was amazing!)
If you’re local to Twickenham and fancy giving them a try here’s are the details.
Tsaretta Spice Bottomless Brunch
⭐️£37.50 per head for bottomless Prosecco or cocktail of the day
⭐️£55 per head for bottomless Champagne
⭐️ Food included: 4 tapas selections and dessert or 2 tapas selections, a pav or naanwich and dessert
⭐️ Non-alcohol brunch is also available
Tsaretta Spice
55 Church Street
Twickenham
TW1 3NR
You can also read our full review over on the blog (link in bio)](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/334565436_5960402314015030_663031098700829518_n.jpg)
![[AD] What does family look like for you?
I am fortunate to be surrounded by strong, powerful women in the form of my mum, sister and mother-in-law (along with many others). With Mother’s Day just around the corner, @BootsUK want to celebrate all the different mums and mother figures we are lucky enough to have in our lives. They have a huge range of Mother’s Day gifts to choose from so we can show them how much they mean to us. (swipe to take a look at some of my choices)
If you want to express love and appreciation for the mother figure(s) in your life, head to Boots.com to find the ideal gift. They have a whole host of gifts, so you can be sure to find something to suit all tastes. Celebrate the #LoveForAllMums this Mother’s Day with Boots.
](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/334276459_136658625736352_6403224988403337253_n.jpg)



