Moving can be a stressful experience, and if you are a parent of a young child, you likely have additional concerns regarding their safety and well-being. When searching for a family-friendly rental, the property amenities, surrounding neighborhood, and educational opportunities can contribute to your decision. Make the best choice for your family by following this helpful guide.
What to Look for in a Rental
When searching for a new Boston rental, there are many factors to consider. Depending on the size of your family, you may want to look for a home with a spacious floor plan. The number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, and access to a yard can help give your child room to grow.
In addition to the floor plan, apartments with kid-friendly outdoor amenities, such as playgrounds, pools, and sports facilities, provide free access to recreational activities in a safe and convenient environment. Gated communities also offer an added level of security which can contribute to your overall peace of mind.
How to Find a Good Neighborhood
Rental options are about more than just the amenities they offer. Moving into a great rental community only to discover that it’s in a neighborhood with high crime rates, limited access to food and entertainment, or subpar schooling can be distressing.
Before deciding on a rental, consider the surrounding area and research relevant statistics to see if it might be a good fit. Safety is often a top priority if you have a child, so you may want to focus on rentals in low-crime neighborhoods.
Consider other factors, such as proximity to public spaces, access to entertainment, and walkability. Renting a home near a park, public library, or museum can offer healthy and fun activities, while restaurants and shopping centers provide plenty to do on the weekends. Having more information can help you imagine what it might be like for your family to live there.
What to Look for in a School
Moving into an area with a good school is essential if you have a school-aged child. According to experts, children with access to better resources, more passionate teachers, and updated facilities are often more successful. Researching schools in the area can help you choose a location with quality educational opportunities.
Another thing to look for in schools is extracurricular activities. A school with sports programs and afterschool clubs can offer your child many opportunities to stay active and develop teamwork, discipline, and critical thinking skills. In addition, participation in performing arts can help your child build leadership skills.
How to Make the Move Easier on Your Family
Once you find your ideal rental, you still have to pack up your family’s belongings and relocate to your new home. Moving can be a stressful experience for your entire family, but there are ways to reduce stress and help the process go smoothly.
Plan early to avoid the added pressure of rushing through the move. Stay organized by labeling boxes as you pack to know what goes where when you get to your new home. Another idea is to prepare a snack bag or moving day meal to help keep everyone full of energy.
Finding a new rental home for your family can be challenging, but knowing what to look for can help streamline the process. Consider what your family needs in a home when viewing online rental listings, research the location, and find a good school with plenty of options for your child.
