Finding your forever family home

With reports that David and Victoria Beckham believe their LA home is too small for them, here are some tips when looking to buy a new house to ensure you don't outgrow it too quickly:

Think about the future

If you have one child now but hope to have one or two more in the next few years, will you have enough bedrooms? Is there a dining room or garage you could potentially turn into a family room or play room? Is the house in the catchment area of both good primary and secondary schools?

Even if you feel you’ve completed your family and won’t be needing extra bedrooms, you might need to consider whether one bathroom is going to be enough when your little ones grow into teenagers.

Is there the potential to add value?

Could you add a one or two storey extension onto the property if you wanted to? Have a look to see if neighbouring properties have been extended as this is often a good indicator if you’re wondering whether planning permission would be granted.

If the home is already immaculate and there isn’t the potential to add an extension or convert the loft you may struggle to add value which is something you might want to bear in mind.

Can you afford the mortgage?

You need to choose a property that you can afford long-term so make sure you stick within your budget. If you spend more, you may just about afford your mortgage payments now but in the future, you might struggle if you have to pay out for childcare or reduce your hours for some reason. You still want to be able to afford the odd luxury and holiday too.

Once you’ve found your dream property, put in an offer/s and been accepted you can get on with planning your move. It can be a good idea to book your removal company as soon as you know your moving date so they don’t get booked up.