Are you shopping for a new home after divorce. Many decisions will be more challenging right now, and the location of a real estate purchase is no exception. If you need to buy a new home for yourself or your children, one way to find the right location is to decide on the right goals. What are the right location goals? Here are four ways to approach it. 

1. Getting Distance From Your Ex

Many people choose to move away from their old life when they get divorced. If you don't share family or business obligations or you moved with your spouse as a married couple, this could be a great time to start fresh in a new area. You may even opt to return to a well-known location where you have more roots. Or, consider this an opportunity to try an area you've always wanted to live in. 

2. Making Co-Parenting Easier

Not all divorcees can (or should) move far away. The most common reason to stay nearby is to improve your ability to co-parent with your ex. There is nothing wrong with choosing to stay within a reasonable distance from your children's other parent so things are easier. This can aid in keeping interruptions to the children's' lives as minimal as possible. 

3. Finding Your Support Network

Life after divorce can be lonely and strange. If you feel this way, combat emotional difficulties by getting a home where you have an established support network.

For most people, this means returning to a home town or where other close family lives. For others, it might mean buying a house close to a workplace they enjoy. It may even mean choosing a home where you can pursue your own interests, such as hiking or the theater. 

4. Staying Actively Engaged

Are you unsure what to do with yourself and your time now that you're on your own? Then stay actively engaged in life and find new personal interests. Your home location can contribute greatly.

You might look for a spot near a vibrant downtown or a busy city with many other young professionals to associate with. You may want to live close to the outdoors. Or you might just choose a town with a healthy arts scene to enjoy. Whatever your interests, make it convenient to pursue them. 

Which location goal do you have? Whether you want to make parenting easy and stable, return to your roots, or try new things, the right home in the right spot will help. Talk with a real estate agent today for more tips on finding the perfect location to buy your first home in this new chapter of life.