Will this be a problem?

Question

We live in a part of Canada where houses are extremely expensive. Obviously, as a young couple we can't afford that! We have no desire to move - our jobs, family and life are here. So, we own a condo, like most people in their 20s and 30s in our city. It's a good size with 2 bedrooms, a den (which could be a small 3rd bedroom) and 2 washrooms. It also has a large deck and we're across from a park with a playground and about 10 blocks from the beach.

I started thinking about the home study... Will the fact that we don't have a house with a backyard be a problem? Someone told me they look at things like that when doing the home study and it might count against us. Our home is just over 1,000 sq.ft so it's not tiny, and our deck is about 350 sq.ft. (It's properly enclosed.)

Does anyone have any experience with this? Thanks.

Answer 1

I think that a house with no backyard for a couple with children is a problem.  But this is my opinion.  I have two girls, and we all live in a 1200 + sq. ft apartment.  There are parks nearby, but there is no area for kids for immediate access for quick outside plays.  I don't want to walk to the park down the street every time the girls want to go play soccer.  So, my husband and I started house hunting, and the #1 thing that I MUST have?  A good size backyard!  #2?  No cacti.  I live in Arizona.

Answer 2

You should be fine. They are more concerned if the place is clean, and safe for the baby.  They are not concerned that it is a really big place etc.  Just relax!

Answer 3

If that was the case then no one who lived in the city would ever be allowed to adopt a child. As long as the house is safe and child friendly then there shouldn't be a problem. As the child will have it's own room they shouldn't have an issue with the size. I wouldn't worry about it as its one of those things that you can't change anyways. But I don't think it's going to be a problem for you.

Answer 4

I recently passed a home study. I live in an apartment. We are on the first floor with access to play outside but she did not even look at that. She stated that she just wanted to be certain my baby had a bed. I think you will be fine for now. When he/she gets a little older you will need more than a deck.