What’s 10 minutes worth?

I think childcare/schooling is just one of those things I know about but haven’t actually put much research into. However Reading people’s posts and speaking to friends/family should probably be top of our list of actually considering moving.

As for work then it’s very flexible. My boss has already confirmed I can work from home one day per week when baby is born. I can choose my times, but I have always preferred to go early and get home early.

So more reasons to stay put

 

A second car is essentially $100 (or more) per week. This is definately worth adding to your pros/cons list.

 

Not moving 10 minutes further away for us is not an option, everything comparable within 10-15 minute drive is $$$ more expensive on a $/m2 basis. We'd be giving up location for land size (to move slightly closer to town) or getting a much worse house.

You don't use and kids won't use a yard but access to a park (even an inner-city pocket park) is better than none. Small parks don't generate the traffic problems that larger parks attract (for organised sports).

Walkable distance to the primary school and access to transport are important drivers. Preschool or childcare closer to work not home - if kids get sick you want to get there sooner rather than later, pick up time also has to factor in that you need to leave work with peak hour traffic (or not if it is close to work).

 

Answered your own question.
Congratulations to you and all the new dads.

 

Simply not true.

Kids DO need outdoor space to run, kick a ball, dig in the dirt and generally make a mess. On hot days there is nothing they will like better than playing under the hose (water restrictions excepted), or simply filling a bucket with water and playing with different sized containers and funnels from the kitchen.

Add a sandpit, pitch a small tent, make a vege garden, keep a guinea pig.... the list is endless.
Marg

 

This thread is awesome, so much learning & insights (especially the soccer field idea!). My sincerest congrats to all the new dads @euro73, @Sackie, @albanga.

 

Being a parent of 3 and a grandparent of 2, I can attest to the invaluable asset having a secure yard for kids to play, develop and learn in. I have many fond memories of barbecues with both family and friends, footy games, shooting hoops, cricket matches happening in the backyard. Things you simply cannot do if you are limited for outdoor " Space".
This proved true up until the kids reached their late teens and moved onto their own academic and sporting pursuits; which eventually led them away from home. So, having a relatively large 4 bedroom home with the kids now gone seemed impractical to me and hence I decided to downsize. This not only freed up capital but also gave me more time to pursue my own interests.
Today, I reside in a villa with a small land component and wouldn't have it any other way. Very little in the way of maintenance issues and lawn upkeep.
The grand kids now have their own backyards to play in and when they visit me it is off to the beach. Best of both worlds I guess.
Thanks albanga for the thought provoking thread and all the best with the new arrival!

 

Any yard is a godsend. Let's be real. We've all kicked them outside and shut the door just to experience 5 minutes of peace and serenity.. My poor neighbors.