Moving can be tough on every member of the family but it doesn’t have to turn into fights and arguments. Take heed of my 6 tried and true tips for a stress-free move with kids:
1: Uncover family deal breakers
Before you even begin your home hunting journey, consider the family deal breakers. A recent Zillow survey shows 47% of parents regret their home buying decision, from commute time to a larger yard, even the lack of a playroom can cause many families to feel remorse.
2: Include the kids during the home search
Even though a disruptive child can cut a home tour short, it is still important to involve the kids in your search for a new home. To reduce stress, parents can use technology to pre-screen homes online or on their mobile devices with their children before viewing the house in person. You can also hire someone to watch the kids during a tour, and only bring the whole family along once they’ve narrowed down their choices.
3: Seek support during the move
Be sure to enlist the help of professional movers. Both packing and unpacking can be less stressful with the right help.
4: Get to know the neighborhood
Moving to a new community can be difficult, especially for the little ones. One out of five children cries at the idea of missing friends and family. And one in three parents wished their neighbors had kids the same age as their own. Before you move, research potential neighborhoods in person to see if kids and families are prevalent. Or, hire a knowledgeable Realtor who can point you in the right direction for a family friendly neighborhood.
5: Consider childcare in advance
Parents should always research childcare options in advance of a move to avoid the stress of finding help at the last minute.
6: Be patient
About half of the parents surveyed by Zillow said it takes up to a year for the entire family to fully settle into a new home. Be patient and understand it takes time for the entire family to get comfortable in a new home and community.
The bottom line for a stress-free move for every member of the family is planning in advance and working with the right Realtor who really knows the communities where you are moving. You can count on me to find you the perfect family home in Montecito, Hope Ranch or any of Santa Barbara’s upscale communities. Just call me at 805.886.9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com.