How does one choose between a home with great amenities in the complex and a great neighborhood with good social infrastructure? Couples with young children often face this dilemma when looking to buy a house. There are certain things parents need to consider during the buying process when looking to provide a safe and happy environment for the child to live and grow.

Here is a small guide to buying kid-centric homes.

Buying a home that will be the right size:

When children are young, they often share their spaces with their parents. However, as children grow they need their own personal space and hence, a room to personalize and call their own. Therefore, when selecting a home, make sure it is big enough for the future space requirement of the entire family.

The home selected must have the scope to comfortably accommodate the expanded family size too.

A great neighborhood:

As the children grow, so do their needs. Choosing a neighborhood with excellent access to good educational institutes, healthcare, extra-curricular activities, various retail shops and other social infrastructure will help in reducing the stress of fetching the daily errands.

For instance, Waghbil, an established neighborhood on Ghodbunder Road, Thane has good access to schools, colleges, markets, banks and hobby classes all within close proximity.

The support system of a great neighborhood cannot be undermined by parents with growing children when purchasing a new home.

Connectivity is never overrated:

Traveling to work, educational institutes for higher studies or leisure; connectivity and infrastructure plays a pivotal role in our everyday lives. When shortlisting localities, take into consideration the current and proposed infrastructure of the area along with the ease of connectivity to the major transport routes like highways, railway stations, airports etc.

For instance, the upcoming metro station in Waghbil, Ghodbunder Road, Thane will decrease travel stress not just for the present day traveler but also for the future generations.

The future infrastructure will cushion the commuting stress that one might have today.

Updates, upgrades and downsizes:

When children grow and leave the nest, a large home may seem like a burden to maintain and live in. When choosing a home, go for a space that can be easily up-sized or downsized based on the needs of the family.

An extra room in the 3 BHK set-up can be used as a TV room, a personal library or a hobby room. The spaces previously used for storage can be freed for a more open look in the home.

Always consider homes with smart floor layouts that can be updated stress free.