Good-quality family homes are in constant demand in Canberra, but what are the desirable features that make for best in class?
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Richard Davies of Belle Property Kingston says school catchment areas are often at the top of the list.
"That's a priority for many families who want to send their children to their school of choice," he says.
"It's also often a big factor in the timing of their move, too, with an end-of-year move being preferred."
Davies says there are a number of other practical features that are highly sought after by families.
"Zoned living areas that provide some separation between child and adult areas are popular," he says.
"It just gives the family some options when they want to come together and for those other times when they need their own space."
Elizabeth Jancewicz of Peter Blackshaw Gungahlin says a quiet street or a cul-de-sac location is often preferred by families as far as outdoor play and safety are concerned.
"People also value locations that may be close to a park or other recreational spaces for the children and for walking pets," she says.
"Indoors, open-plan living continues to be in favour as it enhances supervision, particularly where it flows into outdoor spaces."
Jancewicz says plenty of storage is another priority as is a level, enclosed back garden "with a patch of grass to kick a ball around".
"A pool has a degree of appeal, but safety is the main concern for families with approved fences being a must," she says.
Tips for finding the your kid-friendly home...
Schools. A high priority in the choice of family home location is the catchment area of preferred schools. Review priority enrolment areas in case there have been any changes to boundaries before buying.
Open spaces. Children love an open area to play in - either a backyard or a nearby reserve or parkland. Even a cul-de-sac location (with supervision) can provide extra outdoor options.
Zones. Family, rumpus, living and study areas provide options for each member to have their own space or for the whole family to come together for meals and other occasions.
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