For many families, summer feels like a natural time to move. The school year is wrapping up, the holidays offer time to settle in and there is an opportunity to start the new year somewhere new.
But finding the right family home is about more than bedrooms, bathrooms and backyard space. Location, school zones, daily routines and future plans can all shape what the right move looks like for your family.
If a move is on your radar, here are seven things worth considering before you start packing.
1. Start With What Your Family Needs
Before you start scrolling through property listings, think about what you actually need from your next home.
Perhaps you have outgrown your current space, need an extra bedroom or home office, or want a bigger backyard. Maybe the priority is being closer to family, work or school.
Having a clear list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves can help narrow your property search and keep you focused on what matters most.
2. Check School Zones Early
If you have school-aged children, your preferred school may play a big part in where you choose to live.
Many South Australian government schools have designated school zones, so it is worth checking the relevant catchment and enrolment requirements before making a property decision.
If changing schools is part of the move, starting the process early can also give everyone more time to prepare before the new school year begins.
3. Think About Everyday Life
The right home also needs to be in the right location.
Consider the school run, commute to work, public transport and how close you will be to shops, parks, childcare, sporting facilities and the places you visit regularly.
It can be worth spending some time in the neighbourhood before you buy. Visit during the week, try the commute and get a feel for what everyday life could look like.
4. Plan Your Buying and Selling Timeline
If you already own a home, one of the bigger decisions is whether to sell before you buy or find your next property first.
There are benefits and considerations with either approach, and the right option will depend on your financial position, the local market and how much flexibility you have around settlement.
Speaking with your real estate agent and conveyancer early can help you understand your options and build a realistic timeline for both transactions.
5. Look Beyond the Purchase Price
When setting your budget, remember to factor in the other costs that can come with buying and moving.
Depending on your circumstances, these could include conveyancing, building and pest inspections, removalists, insurance and other moving expenses.
There may also be things you want to change once you move in, from furniture and window coverings to painting or minor improvements. Leaving some room in the budget can make those first few months easier.
6. Think a Few Years Ahead
A home that works for your family today should ideally have room to work for you tomorrow too.
Think about how your needs might change over the next five years. Children may need more space, working arrangements could change or an extra living area might become more important.
You do not need to predict everything, but considering the next stage of family life can help you choose a home with a little more longevity.
7. Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Moving before summer does not mean you need to rush into a decision.
Starting early gives you more time to research suburbs, attend open inspections, prepare your existing property for sale and organise the practical side of moving.
If you are hoping to be settled before the new school year, working backwards from that goal can help you understand when you may need to start your property search.
Most importantly, focus on finding the right home rather than moving by a particular date.
If a move is on the horizon, our local team can help you understand the market, weigh up your options and open the door to your next chapter.
