How to Pick Your Forever Family Home

*Collaborative Post

One of the biggest decisions you’re likely to make is finding a family home that you’ll spend the rest of your life in. Unlike a short-term rental, this purchase goes beyond square footage. You’ll need to find a place that suits your family’s lifestyle now and can adapt to your needs in the years ahead.

From location and budget to weighing up new build homes versus period properties, making a sensible choice means planning for the long term.

Location and Lifestyle Fit

If you have children, proximity to good schools and local catchment areas will be a top priority. Local amenities such as supermarkets, GP surgeries, and leisure facilities also make a huge difference in convenience. If commuting is part of your routine, consider how accessible transport links are and how long journeys might take during peak hours.

Lifestyle fit is just as important. Since the pandemic, many families have placed a higher value on access to parks and outdoor space. A home within easy access of walks and cycle routes can make a big difference to your quality of life, whether you live in the city centre or a suburban neighbourhood. 

Budget and Long-Term Affordability

After identifying your preferred locations, you’ll need to set a clear budget. While your mortgage will be the most considerable cost, don’t overlook associated expenses such as utilities, council tax, and maintenance. Long-term affordability is key: consider how mortgage rates could change over time, and plan for the possibility of rising energy or childcare costs.

The Bank of England’s base rate is 4% as of August 2025. Leave some flexibility in your finances to account for upcoming changes to the rate, as a rise could mean your monthly mortgage payments increase if you go for a variable-rate mortgage.

Choosing the Right Type of Home

When deciding on the type of property, it’s worth weighing up the benefits of new homes versus older houses. For higher energy efficiency scores, it’s better to opt for new build homes with modern layouts and lower initial maintenance costs. They usually come with the option to personalise finishes and fittings, allowing you to tailor the property to your lifestyle.

Older Victorian and period homes may offer more generous room and garden sizes, as well as unique character features, at the expense of increased upkeep and higher energy costs. The choice also depends on the type of property itself. Flats may suit young families, while detached houses or cottages may be the dream for those with older kids seeking space and privacy.

Future-Proofing Your Choice

Your home isn’t only about meeting your current requirements, but also what you’ll need in five, 10, or 20 years. Ask yourself whether the layout can adapt as children grow, or if there’s potential to extend or convert space to accommodate changing circumstances. For multigenerational families, a property with an annexe or adaptable ground floor space may be a practical option.

It’s worth researching planned housing developments and infrastructure projects in the area. New transport links, schools, or retail centres could enhance convenience and boost property values, but significant developments can change the feel of a neighbourhood.

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.