By Michelle Gillespie, Realtor, Prudential Prime Properties
Playgrounds and beaches are back in popularity as school starts to let out for the summer.?? Though most people associate this season with backyard picnics and sunny days, summer is also one of the largest real estate seasons for families to move.
Moving into a new home brings with it a lot of emotions, particularly for families moving with children. Excitement and enthusiasm are coupled with anxiety and apprehension as to whether children will take to the new home and neighborhood. Carefully preparing children for the move, both practically and psychologically, will help ease the transition and make the process smoother and more enjoyable for the entire family.
I have been helping families move for years and offer the following advice on how to make sure children of all ages cope with the home buying process and the big move.
FINDING A NEW HOME
Communicate. Maintain an open dialogue with children about the decision to move to a new house. Engaging them at the beginning of the process will give them time to get used to the idea and ultimately accept the change. Explain the reasons behind the move, and answer questions truthfully. However, early discussion does not mean it is necessary to bring them to every single home being considered, especially very young children. Once the choices have been narrowed down to perhaps two or three, bring them to the homes so they can begin to feel familiar with new surroundings.
Listen. Listening to what children are saying about the move is just as important as talking to them about it. By paying close attention to their statements and reactions, parents can alleviate any fears. This is especially important for school-age children and teenagers who may be reluctant to leave their friends and classmates. Avoid being dismissive of their social concerns; acknowledge them and remind them about the new opportunities that await them. Focusing on the positives of the move may help settle down anxious children.
Explore. After deciding on a new home, I can help your family discover their new neighborhood by showing you the playgrounds, community centers, recreation areas and other areas important to the children that help make the environment seem more familiar.
MOVING IN
Comfort. Pack up the children's rooms last to minimize disruption. The longer they feel secure in their own rooms, the easier the transition will be. Then, set up their new bedrooms first so they feel like they'se back in familiar surroundings. And do not completely redecorate the children's rooms in the new home; maintain continuity so the children feel secure. It is very important to return to normal routines as quickly as possible, so set up the kitchen second. Try to serve meals at the same times as before, so there is not too much change all at once.
Engage. Show the children all the other rooms in the new home and let them participate to a degree in decorating decision-making. By accepting input on decoration, parents will make their children feel like they are part of the process.
Surprise. Arrange for special treats to be waiting for everyone at the new house. New games or new cuddly friends will keep the children busy during unpacking and make the first memory of the new house a pleasant one.
OUR CURRENT MARKET
My most recent listing had an accepted offer in the first two days on the market with multiple offers and many showings.. The inventory is low for Northborough, Westborough and Southborough.? Buyers are looking for new inventory. Every day I receive calls from buyers and buyer's agents asking me for new inventory.
LET ME HELP
I have many years of experience helping families move, and I have a family of my own, so I understand the unique challenges involved in moving your family.
If you are thinking of selling your home, please call me, Michelle Gillespie, at 508-934-9818 or e mail [email protected]. Visit my website at www.michellegillespie.com for more information.
An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are registered service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation of Prudential.
Equal Housing Opportunity.
