Two Houses...which would you pick

[Bells3032]

Both in similar areas

House A - in perfect condition. On a main road but slightly set back. Only 7 years old and beautiful. More than big enough for us. On the edge of good catchment for three good schools. Lovely garden. However, it's about a 20 minute walk from the station and high street (I reckon I will only be communing 1-2 days a week in future but my husband commutes). However, there is a bus literally outside that takes you to the station but it's a bit round the houses. Husband could cycle though. And about a 30 minute walk from my dad and sis who i am close to.

House B - on at 150-200k cheaper but needs to be refurbished etc. Also probably larger than we really need. Could just manage with repaint and re carpet but I'd prob redo kitchen and bathrooms etc to be happy and maybe consider a loft extension. Garden is small. Only in catchment for one good school and a couple of very poor ones. Also on a main road. However, it's a 5 minute walk to station and station and about a 15 minute walk to my dad and sister.

We are currently just married and living in a flat belonging to my in laws so could still live here whilst work was done. We are looking to have kids within the next couple of years.

Or do we just sit and wait and hope for something else?

Both have serious drawbacks. It's a pretty safe time to wait for something better.

Between these 2, I'd chose A. But personally I wouldn't rush if I don't need to move right away, there will be better houses coming on the market at some point.

"Edge of catchment" rang alarm bells - a lot can change in 5 years. And working on the assumption you would go back to work after having children, are there any good nurseries on the way to the station from the house?

I think you should keep looking. If you are buying a house with a view to having children then consider:
If you intend to keep working, you need a nursery between the house and your work, otherwise your commute time gets extended even further
You want to be in an area where you can push the buggy to the park/woods/shops. Especially in the first few years!
School catchments change - look at the furthest distance place offered for the school. Where there is high demand catchment areas are shrinking, so a house in catchment now may well not be in 5 years time.

According to your op you prefer the first house.