Families come in all shapes and sizes, and so do the places in which we live. But when it comes to a great family home, there are some things that have universal appeal. It’s often about the practicalities – a great home in a good location can help us to cut down the time-consuming logistical efforts and concentrate on living. Our collective lifestyles are constantly evolving too. Where once we all wanted an ensuite bathroom, we then wanted a kitchen living area where we could host friends and keep an eye on the kids. Now we still want both of those things, but we also want a home office too!
Our new family homes in East Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire have been built for modern life. They’re designed to be flexible spaces that allow people to tailor-make their own perfect lifestyle. But the important cornerstones that help us to do that – they’re all there. So, what are these cornerstones, and what should family buyers look out for?
Size and layout
Of course we all want enough space. A bedroom each and a big kitchen, and a guest room would be nice too. But, we are all also governed by what we can afford, so if the house with all of the rooms is a bit out of your budget, you might need to be more imaginative when you are looking around.
Think about the most important rooms to you – if you have a family, then it’s likely to be a kitchen with space to sit down together in. If you have lots of hobbies, your priority might be having a garage where you can store your things. If you work from home perhaps you want an office space away from the noise and hubbub of the rest of the house. It’s a good idea to sit down and work out your priorities before you start looking.
Security and safety
Feeling safe in your home is probably the most important thing when it comes to your long-term happiness.
Our new-build homes are fitted with modern doors and windows, and security systems, so you can rest easy. Our developments are designed to create a sense of community too, giving you security without feeling overlooked.
Energy-efficiency
A key reason why families buy a new-build home is for energy efficiency. As oil and gas prices soar, having a house that is well insulated and with energy saving, modern fittings is becoming more important than ever.
In fact, a recent report by the Home Builders Federation (HBF) found that energy bills for new homes are on average 55% cheaper, saving households £135 on monthly running costs! Now, surely that’s as good a reason as any for buying a new family home!
Outdoor space
A garden can feel like you have an extra room in your house. It gives you a place to escape and relax for a while, to get creative with planting, or be an extra place for children to play. Ideally it can be all of those things and more.
New-build gardens can be perfect blank canvases for you to design a space that works perfectly, whether that involves a big dining table or a cosy corner sofa. And if you plant wildlife friendly flowers you can enjoy welcoming in the bees and the birds too.
Communal outdoor spaces are important too, ensuring your kids have a safe place to play with other children, and you have a pleasant space to socialise with your neighbours.
Quiet areas to work
As more of us work from home, at least for part of the time, having access to a quiet place to concentrate is becoming increasingly important.
Some people like a room at the front of the house, where they can watch the comings and goings of community life, while others like to be far away from it all – in an upstairs space, or a room at the end of the garden. Great offices need a window, space for a desk, carefully placed electrical sockets and effective WIFI. The rest is down to you.
Location to school and local amenities
Choosing a home that is within walking distance of the places that you travel to most can have a huge impact on your time, stress levels, and general wellbeing.
For families with children, school is likely to be the primary concern. Think about the route your children might take, and how safe it feels for them to get to and from your home each day.
Natural daylight
Having a home that is filled with natural daylight and designed in a way that allows it to spread throughout the house can make you feel healthier and happier.
Big windows that are thoughtfully positioned can have a huge impact on your mood. Even during the greyer months, you can feel in touch with the changing seasons and make full use of the light we do get.
Make the most of your light by choosing curtains and blinds that don’t obstruct the glass, position mirrors to help bounce the light around, and grow some indoor plants to add some colour and structure to your room.
To find out more, or to book a viewing at any of our new family homes in East Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, get in touch.