There are many different factors you need to consider when buying your next home. For example, you need to think about affordability (especially as the costs associated with running a house are rising), alongside whether or not the neighborhood is the right fit. As such, many people find moving home stressful, especially when moving with children when the stakes are higher.
With that in mind, here are some top tips that you can use when moving house with kids in tow.
Find a kid-friendly home. When attending a viewing property, you’re likely already aware of the many warning signs you should look out for, such as water damage, structural issues, or mold. However, you must also ensure you find a child-friendly property. For example, you might want to find a property that is free of the common home hazards you need to protect your children from.
Think about the neighborhood. If you are moving to a new neighborhood, perhaps for work or professional opportunities, you should also do some research ahead of time to see whether your new town is the right fit for your child. For example, you should check if moving will help you settle in the best school districts so that your child receives access to top-tier schooling. You should also keep an eye out for things such as local entertainment facilities, and after-school clubs they can participate in to further explore their hobbies.
Pack sooner rather than later. When it comes to organizing your home ahead of the move, you’ll likely find that your children have more belongings than you thought possible – from clothes to toys (and then more toys). This means that you have a big job ahead of you when it comes to packing, and the earlier you get started on this, the less stressed you will feel. Start by packing up the items you won’t need right away, as you can easily store them in a storage unit until the time comes to unpack. This will also help you to feel more organized – and you can easily search storage unit options near you online.
Keep them involved in the process. Many children are often a little upset when they are told they are moving home. This is understandable when you consider the fact that your current home is their safe space, meaning leaving it behind can be a little daunting. This move will be made more stressful for them if they are also swithciing schools and leaving friends behind. However, you can reduce the emotional impact that moving home has on your child by ensurin they are heavily involved in the process. By taking them a long to viewings, they feel as though they have a say in what happens. You can also work to get them excited about the move by helping them plan out how they will decorate their bedroom, or by writing down a list of things you’re going to do when you move to your new town. For example, you may plan to visit local attractions or find a new favorite restaurant.