While looking for and buying a new home is supposed to be one of the most exciting times for families, adding kids to the mix can add a lot of extra stress.

When you're moving with children, there's another level of consideration – you'll need to factor in their wants and needs and your own.

Here are three things to consider while house hunting to help you make the best choice for your whole family.

1. Research the Local Schools

One of the first things you'll want to look at when buying a house is what the schools are like in the area. If you plan on sending your children to a public school, you'll want to look at homes in the top-ranking school districts. If you plan on sending your children to a private school, you'll want to research which private schools are nearby.

Although your realtor should be able to tell you about the schools in the area, a quick Google search for "private schools near me" (with your GPS turned on) will list all the schools nearby while you're viewing potential homes. You can also research schools online by school district.

Even if you don't plan on sending your kids to schools nearby, there's a hidden benefit to living in a top-rated school district. Research shows that homes near high-quality schools tend to have a higher value and sell faster. Purchasing a home in an area with top-rated schools is not just convenient for you and your kids; it could also be a worthwhile investment.

2. Consider the Size and Layout

Whether you already have children or plan to grow your family, buying a larger home is usually a better choice. With kids, you'll appreciate all the extra room for storage, a dedicated playroom, or another bedroom when you decide to add to the family. When searching for the perfect home, you should always make sure that it will accommodate your needs in the future.

Another deciding factor for potential homes should be the house's floor plan. If you want to stay close to your children, you'll want to have all the bedrooms located on the same floor (or invest in a long-range baby monitor).

Other areas to look at are the size and number of bedrooms and bathrooms and the size of the kitchen and dining room. If you plan to have a large family, make sure your home is spacious enough to accommodate everyone's needs.

3. Location, Location, Location

When you're looking for the perfect home to raise a family in, the location matters. You won't only need to look at the schools in the area but also the general neighborhood. The house's street also matters as some may be quieter and have less traffic than others. Houses in cul-de-sacs and quiet side roads may also be safer than homes in high traffic areas.

You'll also want to look into the community in the neighborhood. If you choose to live in the city, there will be more amenities and entertainment options nearby. In contrast, living in a less densely-populated area will likely have more access to nature, parks, and outdoor activities.

When deciding where you want to live, there's no correct answer. Just be sure you're choosing your location based on your family's needs.