If you and your partner are feeling drawn to settle down and start a family, you'll need a place to call home. While an apartment with roommates is OK for singles, couples with children really need a single-family home. Whether you are on a tight budget or are a millionaire, you can afford to raise your family in a real home.

An Expandable Tiny Home

If you are starting your family on pennies, a tiny house could be an option. Start with a design that can be expanded with extra rooms as your family grows. Depending on zoning, a tiny house can be built on an affordable piece of land that you purchase.

Manufactured Homes

These are prefabricated, single-family homes that can be transported by truck to your property. Manufactured homes come as single-wide and double-wide models, and some of these affordable homes are quite roomy and luxurious. Manufactured homes start at under $50,000 and go all the way up to $200,000, depending on size, features, and quality.

Existing Single-Family Homes

The traditional, suburban home with a big, backyard is what most people think of when they think of single-family homes. Depending on your region, this type of home can be relatively affordable. Be careful to choose a good neighborhood, and also, have a home inspection to pinpoint any problems before you commit to buy.

Big City Townhouse

If you must raise a family in a big city, a townhouse might be the way to go. The difference between an apartment and a townhouse is that a townhouse usually has two floors and its own door to the street. Townhouses also often have a small backyard. Finally, apartments are rented, and townhomes are purchased. However, you'll need to be careful to choose a safe neighborhood for your family; some big city townhouses are affordable and have lots of character, but are not in good neighborhoods.

Newly Constructed Single-Family Homes

Having a custom-built, new home is the way to go for many families. First of all, you won't inherit any problems, such as mold, from the previous owner. Second, a newly constructed home will be up to the latest codes, which spells safety for your family. Third, new neighborhoods often have lower crime rates and are safer places for children.

No matter what your budget, you can buy a home to start your family. But choose wisely, so that your children have a safe, stable place to grow up.