What new and future parents should look for in a home

If you ’ re a new or expectant parent , buying a family home may be on your to-do list . While you can ’ t anticipate everything you ’ ll need in the coming years , here are some essential features to keep top of mind as you shop for your dream home .

• A home on a quiet street in close proximity to a playground . Ideally , the route to the park should have sidewalks the entire way .

• A mudroom with plenty of storage to keep jackets , dirty shoes and other clutter from spilling into the main living space .

• Bedrooms on the same level . This is practical for nightly feedings and gives both you and your kids peace of mind .

• A bathtub , preferably one that ’ s easy for kids to access and has an extra hand-held shower head .

• Stairs that are easy to baby proof . Avoid wide staircases that won ’ t fit a safety gate and railings with large gaps between the rungs .

• A powder room on the main floor . This is helpful for potty training so your child has quick and easy access to a toilet .

To ensure you find the right home for your family , work with a real estate agent who ’ s familiar with the area where you want to live . n

80 MoultrieScene JANUARY 2022