Let’s be honest, house hunting with kids can feel a little like herding squirrels in a furniture store. But don’t worry! Here are some tried-and-true tips to keep your search fun, efficient, and tantrum-free(ish):
5 Tips for a Kid-Friendly (and Parent-Safe) House Hunt
1). Get Them Involved: Keep them in the loop without creating too much stress. Limit the conversations about moving to what you think is reasonable for your kids to lessen the anxiety. Ask your kids what they want in a new house. You might hear “indoor slide” or “unicorn stable”—but hey, it keeps them engaged.
Related Read: Reducing Mortgage Stress
2). Timing Is Everything: Avoid nap times unless you enjoy touring homes with a cranky, snack-obsessed sidekick. You might even arrange a sitter for the first-time viewings and if it’s a real contender go for a second viewing with kids in tow. Plus, if you waited until the second viewing to bring your kids house hunting, you can let them self-direct the next one which can be a real confidence boost for the whole house hunting process.
3). Pack the Essentials: Snacks, colouring books, maybe a tablet with headphones and… more snacks. (Emergency lollipops? No judgement).
Use our printable House Hunting with Kids Scavenger Hunt and keep them entertained while exploring the possibilities.
** bring a clipboard for the scavenger hunt if you have one!
4) Keep Expectations Realistic: (Including your own!) You may not get to linger in the dream kitchen, but you will get to hear the word “bored” a lot. And don’t forget the value of front loading. Coach your children on what the expectations are ahead of time so there are less surprises.
5) Make It an Adventure: After a few showings, detour to a local playground or grab a treat. House hunting should come with sprinkles.
Bonus Parent Pro Tip:
Get pre-approved before you start house hunting. It saves time, avoids heartbreak, and gives you more negotiating power. Plus, fewer questions from the kids like “Are we moving today?”
We’re here to help you find the perfect place to call home, even if it needs to fit bunk beds, LEGO castles, and a stuffed pig named Waffles.