buying a 2nd property to be near grandchildren

I suspect that Lockdown has made a lot of people think twice about how they're living - just how secure are their social contacts and do they want to go back to them, or move on? A couple we know have been in a dilemma for about 5 years about moving but thought they'd miss too much; now they've decided to go for it! To the OP I would say why not? You can always sell it if it doesn't work out.

We have a flat quite near my daughter and 2 hours by train from my son.
We live at the sea side which is nice , but it’s also nice to have a city base too and be able to see children and grandchildren.
We let it out when we are not using it and it’s all worked well so far ?

I think it depends on how old you are and how far you would have to travel.

If you are relatively young, making long journeys to visit probably won't bother you. If you're quite old, you might soon find that you don't feel up to many long drives, which would mean you wouldn't get your money's worth out of your second home. On the other hand, if it isn't too far, you might be fine with the journey even when you are really old.

Sorry, probably not being very helpful. Just some things to consider before you buy.

Another positive... I have met lots of nice gransnetters at my second location:-)

Do it, but don't make DD your only outlet in life. Enjoy!

we've just done this! Bought a bungalow near our only son and family in March after one viewing! Then lock down. It's in N Wales, so not been yet, as Wales still has 5 mile distance rule. We have now decided to move permanently so working on this house, getting ready to sell later in the year.
I say you should definitely go for it. You never know whats around the corner and if we had been in Wales at the start we would have seen our great grand daughter walking!

Our son pushed us to do the same. It hasn't worked out well for us as our daughter in law wont share our wee grandson and she bypasses us every chance she can. Her mother moved to New Zealand and lives with them. She is anti social and has caused so much trouble. We don't even get to babysit. Would I do it again no. Do bear in mind you could move then they could move away at the drop of a hat. Just be aware. Our son is talking of moving overseas now but obviously cant while covid is around. Im not well enough to visit them if they do.

I live next door to my son which works as we don’t take advantage and keep “popping in”. We text as we always have.
But I do know several people who have moved near to their children and have been disappointed.

granh2, slowly and subtly start clearing out that clutter.

We bought a small second home near our son about 100 miles from our main home. It’s great to be able to see them, and help out with childcare without having to stay in their quite small house, or find a local B and B.
Only a few things I would consider if doing it again
Are you up for the travelling between the 2 homes?
Running costs of 2 homes always more than you think! Especially unexpected repairs!
Be prepared for feeling you don’t live properly in either place-took us a while to get into a routine of splitting our time between 2 homes.