Features to look out for to find a kid-friendly home

When you're a parent, the home buying experience isn't solely about a property's ability to hold value and whether you like the kitchen updates. You want a home that is both a good investment and place to watch your children grow.

This can be especially true for infants, as you have more considerations than whether the schools in the area are up to par.

Home safety

When house hunting, look at the safety features and hazards of properties that you're viewing. Check for deadbolts and bedroom windows that are secure and not too close to the ground. Order a property inspection to ensure that there aren't any underlying issues with a home.

If you have small children, think about how features of the home can pose a safety risk. Swimming pools, for example, whether above or below ground, should be surrounded by a fence. Examine the electrical outlets and other sockets. The appropriate covers will need to be used if they are near the floor and within your child's reach. Lastly, think about the cabinets and closets. While they can provide additional storage space, they can also present an opportunity for your young ones to get trapped or easily access hazardous materials, such as cleaners and poisons. Child-safety locks can mitigate this risk.

Take note of the floor plan. Open designs are good for keeping an eye on your child from a slight distance.

Neighborhood safety

Protect your child against dangers from outside the home by looking up some information online. Hop on the Web and check local crime statistics. The Meghan's Law website can inform you of any registered offenders who are living in a neighborhood.

Before entering a property to view the interior, take a look at the street. Is there a lot of traffic? Are there crosswalks available? How far are your from necessary amenities?

Determine the time and distance it takes to reach local schools and the routes to get to those locations if your child was to walk. Look up the address of the nearest hospital, police station and fire department. In an emergency, how fast can responders reach the home? If you're in a more rural location where such services are farther away, what other emergency services are available, such as a community watch group?

With a little sleuthing, you can ensure that the home you choose is the best choice for you and your child.