Help pick a more suitable house for childminding?

Question

House 1: 4 bedroomed townhouse. One large bedroom would be converted into a playroom. Very small paved garden, but is only across the road from a playing field and playground and a 30 minute walk from town and library. But we have a dog and it would be difficult to segregate her from the children whilst they were in the garden. Has a downstairs toilet. Is only across the road from a primary school/nursery for pick ups/drop offs and near many potential customers as there's lots of new housing estates nearby.

House 2: 4 bedroomed house, garage would be converted into playroom. Has a large utility room - ideal for cleaning children up after painting etc. Has a bit bigger garden - big enough for paddling pool/bouncy castle and for children to do gardening, has a seperate area to put the dog. Has a summer house. In a very quiet area, about 4 miles from town.

Bear in mind I don't drive. Which house do you think sounds more suitable for us to buy?

Answer 1

I think that house two sounds like a better house but house one is in a better location, especially as you don't drive. House 2 could leave you a bit isolated and would be unable to collect the children from school. The dog in the small garden seems like a bit of a problem though.

Answer 2

i think the first one sounds more generous, being close to the school etc... possibly put the dog in the backgarden while you care for kids and have indoor kids sand trays/water trays and possibly miniture garden in a sand/water tray for the kids, but use the play area (so long as its safe) while you have the kids.

Answer 3

You really need to speak to Ofsted.  The regulations change in September and you are expected to offer the same facilities as a creche setting.  This usually includes a free flow are into the garden or outside space.

For that reason I would choose house number 2.  Parents who use a childminder usually drive although not always and would probably prefer the idea of a quiet area without too much noise.

Answer 4

House 1`

Answer 5

House 2 for the kids sounds better.

Our garden becomes an extra room in the summer as we even eat someof our meals out there.

If it is town and shops that interest you then go with House 1