While searching for and moving into a new home is an exciting time, it can prove to be quite challenging, and stressful—even before you throw your kids into the mix. However, Scott Becker, Director of Relocation Services for Century 21 New Millennium offers a few tips and tricks that will help your move with kids run smoothly.
Moving can be stressful, but moving with children has it’s own set of challenges.
“Making sure everyone is on the same page, and that your children feel included in big family decisions, will help your ease anxiety over your move,” suggests Becker. One way to help your kids feel involved, according to Becker, is to hold weekly meetings leading up to the move to keep everyone in the family updated.
“Be sure to ask your kids what they would like in a new home and neighborhood, and try and take their suggestions—if reasonable—into account when property searching,” says Becker, who goes on to note that it’s a great idea to take kids with you when house hunting. If you can’t bring them along, be sure to take photos and notes to share with them after.
Children are often reluctant to move to a new town and leave their friends and what is familiar to them. If you have already chosen a neighborhood, take your kids on a few outings in your new area—to parks, festivals, parades or other events—so that they are excited about relocating. Show them where their new school will be and research local sports, dance or other after-school activities they are likely to be interested in. Ask your real estate agent what kids of similar age to your own like to do in your new town, where the popular hang-out spots are, etc. Share this information with your children to amp up their excitement.
“During the actual process of packing up, let your kids help. Have them pack their own things, which will not only help ease the process for you but allow them to feel included,” suggests Becker.
For more information on relocating with the whole family, please contact Century 21 New Millennium at move@c21nm.com, 800-382-1101 or Century 21 New Millennium.
CENTURY 21 New Millennium. Smarter. Bolder. Faster.
CENTURY 21 New Millennium, www.c21nm.com, is a full service real estate brokerage company specializing in residential and luxury properties. The Virginia locations are in Alexandria, Centreville, Culpeper, Fredericksburg, Gainesville, McLean, Stafford, and Woodbridge. The Maryland offices are located in Annapolis, Dunkirk, La Plata, Lexington Park and Lusby. Its core services include: mortgage financing, investing, settlement services, property management, property insurance, global relocation assistance, and commercial real estate.