best place to move for families | David Morris Group

Confusion and stress are two of the most common emotions felt during moving, especially for pets. The packing process and the move can put pets on edge, sometimes causing behavioral problems. It’s just as important to make the move as easy as possible for your pets as you do for the rest of the family. Here are some helpful tips to make moving with pets easier for everyone.

A Month Before Moving:

Make sure collars are snug. Update ID tags and microchips with new contact information.
Request vet records and prescriptions from your current veterinarian. Consider asking for recommendations in your new neighborhood.
Do some research to determine if your pet needs additional vaccinations. A local animal control facility, vet, or animal shelter should be able to answer your questions.
Make sure the backyard is fenced-in, and consider adding a lock to the fence.
Prepare an overnight kit with items to keep your pet comfortable during the move.
For long-distance moves, be sure to identify pet-friendly hotels along your route and reserve a room(s) ahead of time.

Moving Day:

Consider boarding your pets on the day of the move, or make sure they are secured in a crate or a closed room of your house until you are ready to load them into your vehicle.
Move the house before you move the pet. Set up as much as you can before you introduce your animal to the new home.

Post-Move:

Find a new vet right away, so you’ll know where to go for any emergencies.
When you reach your final destination, immediately remove your animal from the vehicle and secure them in a room.
Before unpacking your stuff, lay out all of your pet’s essentials.
Start your new routine (morning walks, mealtime, etc.) immediately, so your pet feels comfortable in your new place.

If you have questions about relocating and need more moving tips, or if you’re curious about the Reno area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Moving is hard, especially with children. If you’re thinking about making a move, consider taking a look at these helpful tips to make the transition smooth and easy for your children and you.

Talk to your kids about the move

The most effective way to prepare your children for an upcoming move is to sit them down and have an open discussion about it. As soon as you know you are moving, let your kids know and give them as much information as possible. Answer any questions they may have as truthfully as possible and be open to both positive and negative reactions.

Involve your kids in the planning

Depending on their age, it can be extremely effective to engage your children in the house-hunting process or the search for a new school. Planning their room in the new house is also a great starting point. Including them in the planning will give your children a sense of control and make them feel like their opinion and feelings are recognized.

Start months earlier than you think is reasonable

Moving with children takes twice as long, and it’s not just because you have more stuff to pack. If you think it will take a month to pack up your home, double it – you’ll be glad you did when you aren’t running around the house the week before the move in a panic.

Moving with toddlers and preschoolers

Moving with kids under the age of six may be easier as their age makes it difficult for them to understand change. To make the transition as smooth as possible for toddlers and preschoolers, try the following:

Be clear and concise. Don’t overcomplicate the situation.
Pack up the house while they’re asleep, especially their toys! Why? Chances are, while you’re packing, they will be unpacking. Leave one box of toys unpacked for them to play with until the last day.
Take a field trip to the new house (if it is vacant) and bring over a few of their toys or other items that comfort them.
Set up your toddler’s new room similar to their old one.
Keep other changes to a minimum.
Have your kid(s) stay with a family member, friend, or babysitter on moving day.

Moving with grade school kids

When is the best time of year to move with grade school kids? Two options are the most popular: summer and mid-year. Generally, it is easier to move elementary-age kids. However, they may still need some convincing and help throughout the move. Teenagers, on the other hand, usually rebel against moving homes and almost always rebel against moving school districts. To combat their attitude, ensure they know that you value their opinion and explain to them why you feel like this move is best for the family.

Gather information about the new school and transfer process

What school will your kids now be attending? Once you’ve closed on the new home, determine what information you need to transfer your kids. Information may include a recent report card or transcript, birth certificate, and medical records. It may also be in your best interest to visit the new school before the move.

After moving day

Get your kids situated in the new home before you focus on the rest of the house. To ensure a smooth transition, try to maintain a regular schedule to show your children that not everything has changed!

If you have questions about relocating or if you’re curious about the Reno area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

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Relocation Guide: Tips to Make Moving with Pets Easier