They say that moving is one of the most stressful things you’ll every do. Add children into the mix and it can be next level chaos.
Danny Luke from Quick Move Now has given us his top tips for a stress-free family house move.
- Start early
One of the biggest causes of stress when moving house is becoming overwhelmed at how much you have to do. Starting the process early will help to relieve some of that pressure.
As soon as you think about moving, before you put your property on the market, it’s time to start a declutter. Sorting, organising and decluttering your property will not just make the move easier and less stressful, it will also help your property sell.
- Have a plan
If you’re considering moving with children, think carefully about the best time to do it. If your children will need to change school, is it feasible to time your move to coincide with the summer holidays? The process of buying and selling property often takes far longer than people anticipate. If you have a deadline, such as a school application date, it’s important to plan plenty of time for hold-ups and the unpredictable nature of the property market.
- Ask friends and family for help
Never does the old expression about it ‘taking a village’ apply more than when you’re trying to move house with children! Gratefully accept any offer of help with the move or with childcare, and don’t forget to reach out and ask for help if you’re finding things tough. It can also be a good idea to host some playdates in the early stages of selling your house, in the hope that return playdates can be arranged for when you could use some child-free packing time or on moving day.
- Get your kids involved
Being a parent can feel like an endless task of picking up after little people, even when you’re not trying to pack and move house! You know how it goes; you get one room sorted, only to discover that the kids have made a mess in every other room of the house. The best way to ensure this doesn’t happen when you’re trying to pack is to get your children involved in the process. Give them specific age-appropriate tasks to complete with you. Not only will this prevent them causing mischief in other areas of the house whilst you’re busy packing, it will also helping them to emotionally prepare for the move and talk through any worries they have.
- Set realistic expectations
Moving house without children can be stressful. Moving with children can bring an extra range of challenges. It’s important that you allow yourself enough time and be realistic about what is and isn’t achievable. Get as many friends and family members to help as possible and, if budget allows, consider paying for additional time-saving services such as professional packers.
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