Michelle Gillespie, REALTOR, ®President’s Circle
Spring has finally arrived and signals the start of the largest real estate season for families planning to move. In this active real estate market, many families are looking to move to a larger home or relocate to another community. This brings many challenges when buying or selling a home, but I can help – here are a few recommendations that I share with my clients when it comes to moving with children.
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.
For close to 15 years I have been helping families move 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’re 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 to remember.
OUR CURRENT MARKET
Wow – what a great spring market. All of my listings have sold in less than a week for list price or higher, plus back-up offers. Yes – I have many happy sellers this spring market. With low inventory in all our communities, especially Northborough, Hudson, Westborough and Southborough, I receive many calls from buyers and buyer’s agents looking for new inventory. If you are considering selling your home this year, please call or email me for a free market analysis.
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.
P.S. Dedicated to Isla and Maeve – I hope you love your new home.
Michelle Gillespie,
508-934-9818
or email… [email protected]
Visit my website at… www.michellegillespie.com for more information.
Michelle Gillespie, Realtor
Leading Edge Agent
Direct Line: 508-934-9818 [email protected]
www.michellegillespie.com
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices N.E. Prime Properties
Independently owned and operated.