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Relocation Guide: Tips to Make Moving with Kids Easier

June 12, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

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!

Relaxing in Reno: Where to Have a Spa Day

June 7, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events and Activities, Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

With the Sierra Nevada mountains surrounding the city, Reno has some of the most beautiful scenery. Taking in the sights is but one of the ways you can relax and unwind in the city. There are also a variety of luxury spas to bring peace to your mind, body, and soul. Check out where to have a spa day in Reno.

The Refuge Spa

Pamper yourself by choosing from the various body scrubs, body wraps, couple’s massages, eye treatments, facials, hair and scalp treatments, lip treatments, paraffin hand treatments, and therapy baths at The Refuge Spa at the Renaissance Hotel.

Spa Atlantis

Located inside the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Spa Atlantis has been awarded Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star designation for six consecutive years. There are various amenities and treatments to choose from. You can relax in one of the lounges, sit in the pool, enjoy a massage, get a facial, have a body wrap or scrub, and more!

Spa at Grand Sierra Resort and Casino

The Spa at Grand Sierra Resort and Casino blends rich minerals and botanicals to deliver a relaxing experience during the various signature massage and skincare rituals offered. There are also some great salon services for a full day of self-care.

The Spa at Silver Legacy

Soothe your soul at The Spa at Silver Legacy. The facility features 12 treatment rooms for massages, wraps, scrubs, and skincare; three relaxation lounges with appropriate social distancing; seven hydrotherapy soaking tubs with spa service only; and a full-service salon.

Spa Toscana

Spa Toscana, located inside Peppermill Reno, was rated the third-best hotel spa in the country by USA TODAY 10 Best. Their facilities include an indoor pool, saunas, steam rooms, cold plunges, showers, locker rooms, Himalayan salt room, and a relaxation room.

Take a little time for yourself and enjoy a few of the services, amenities, and treatments from the luxury spas and resorts around Reno. For more information on what we love about calling Reno home and the best places to visit, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guides.

Questions to Ask Before Downsizing

May 25, 2021/in Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Downsizing to a smaller home can be a great solution for many, but it can also cause problems if you don’t have the right expectations and game plan. Whether you’re hoping to downsize to build a nest egg or you believe you don’t need the space now that your kids have left home, it’s important to think through every scenario and make an informed decision. Be sure to ask yourself these questions before downsizing!

Is there a financial benefit to downsizing?

A smaller home doesn’t always mean more money in your wallet. The costs of things like a new mortgage, property taxes, insurance, repairs, HOA fees, and upgrades of the new home, can make it more costly to downsize. Take a deep look at your finances and compare what the upfront costs will be as well as the long-term costs to see if there’s a financial benefit to downsizing.

Are you excited about having less space or does it make you nervous?

The benefits of a smaller home usually come with less maintenance and cleaning. If you’re excited about having less home to take care of and not worried about having enough space for guests or parties, you’re likely ready to downsize.

What are you going to do with your stuff?

A larger home needs more furniture and even larger furniture to take up space. There’s also room to keep and collect more than you need. Think about what you need to keep rather than what you can get rid of. It’ll help you determine if downsizing is feasible for you.

Can you look past square footage and focus on floorplans?

A smaller home may mean less square footage, but it doesn’t have to mean less space. The right floorplan that maximizes the space well can feel larger than your current home. Don’t ignore a home based on square footage alone. Think about how you could place furniture, where you could add more space to make it comfortable for you and your needs.

Can you see yourself in a smaller home?

This is a question that will likely only be answered when you start to tour homes. When you see what smaller homes offer, you’ll be able to compare what you have currently with what’s on the market and see if you can make the sacrifices that you’ll need to make to move into a smaller home.

If you have questions about downsizing your home or about the current Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your real estate resource!

Home Maintenance Tasks to Tackle Over the Weekend

May 18, 2021/in Lifestyle /by Shauna Morris

Summer is the season of fun. With more time spent outdoors and enjoying the company of friends and family, it’s important to make sure your home is in tip-top shape. If you’re looking to make your home the perfect paradise during the warmer months, start with these home maintenance tasks to tackle over the weekend!

Replace outdoor lighting

Check that porch lights, landscape lights, and motion-sensor lights are all in working order. Replace any bulbs or schedule repairs for anything that’s not working. You can also add some twinkly lights to your backyard for a true outdoor retreat.

Inspect kitchen and bath fixtures

In order to prevent costly water damage and repairs, keep an eye on kitchen and bath fixtures. Regrout and recaulk areas around counters and tile that are in need of a refresh and have any slow leaks repaired immediately.

Check all alarms and detectors

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends that smoke alarms are tested at least once a month and replaced every 10 years. Take care to test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and other security measures you have in place to make sure everything is in working order.

Prep the grill

Deep cleaning the grill before you start the summer BBQ season will keep your grill working more efficiently. Clean the grates and interior with a grill brush, but don’t neglect the exterior. Warm, soapy water will have it shining and ready to serve up burgers and hot dogs all summer long.

Don’t neglect the walls of your home

Walls can collect dust as much as the rest of the surfaces in your home can. Use a dusting attachment on your vacuum or an electrostatic duster to remove dust from walls, then touch up paint as needed on interior walls and trim.

Check what’s on your shelves

Dust the items on your shelves that have collected a thin layer of dust since your last cleaning session. For areas with a thicker layer of dust, use warm, soapy water to wash off the grime, rinse, and let dry.

Prepare bedrooms for the new season

Swap out heavier bedding for lighter blankets, quilts, and sheets to help you keep cool in the warmer months. Rotate the mattresses on all beds and flip over if possible, to make sure the bed wears evenly.

Savor the summer season in style and tackle a few projects each weekend to keep your home ready for guests and fun! If you’re curious about what home maintenance tasks you should add to your to-do list each month and at the start of each season, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about maintaining a home, buying a home, or selling a home.

Relocation Guide: Who to Notify of Your Move

May 12, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

When relocating, it’s essential to put in a change of address and notify important businesses and individuals of your move so you continue to receive important mail. In order to avoid potential hassles like missed bills or service lapses, follow this change of address checklist to see who you need to alert about your new home.

Post Office
Government Services
- IRS
- Passport Office
- Veterans Affairs
- Unemployment Office
Utility Companies
- Phone services (cellular and landline)
- Electric
- Heating (gas, oil, propane, or other fuels)
- Water (water delivery and treatment)
- Sewer
- Waste disposal
- Internet (landline, wi-fi, and satellite)
- Television (cable or satellite TV)
Jobs
- Notify the Human Resources department
- Update your personal marketing materials (business cards, websites, resumes)
- Employment agencies (temp agencies and recruiters)
- Professional memberships (licensing and certification boards)
- Past employers (for W-2’s)
Financial Institutions
- Banks and credit unions
- Credit card companies (including department store cards)
- Lenders (mortgage, home equity, auto, student loan)
- Insurance companies (health, renters, auto, home, medical, dental, disability, life)
- Retirement (pension plans, $401K, retirement accounts, Social Security, Veterans Affairs)
- Investments (investment agencies and brokers)
Health
- Physicians (doctors, dentists, optometrists, etc.)
- Pharmacies
- Health insurers (HMOs, DMOs, agencies, and brokers)
Car
- Auto insurers (insurance agencies and brokers)
- Auto lenders (car dealership, bank, or loan)
- Department of Motor Vehicles (changing your vehicle registration and license)
- Membership clubs (AAA, etc.)
- Parking permits
- Warranty
- Toll pass
Subscription Services
- Newspapers
- Magazines (Note: USPS will only forward magazine subscriptions for two months)
- Movie subscriptions (streaming services)
- Book and music clubs
- Monthly/quarter subscription boxes (beauty boxes, fashion boxes, wine clubs, etc.)
Memberships, Clubs, and Organizations
- House of worship (churches, synagogues, mosques)
- Health clubs
- Community groups (PTA, neighborhood associations, civic clubs)
- Children’s extracurricular activities (dance, music, sports, etc.)
- Social clubs and community centers
Service Providers
- House cleaning services
- Delivery services
- Accountants
- Childcare (day-care center, babysitters)
- Lawn care services
- Veterinarian (including pet groomer, pet sitters, and microchip service)
- Pool services
- Lawyers
Other
- Register to vote!
- Children’s schools
Friends and Family

Changing your address takes time, but it’s better to take care of it sooner rather than later, so you don’t have any missing mail. 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!

Where To Go Rock Climbing In Reno-Tahoe

May 11, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

The city of Reno continues to climb the ranks as one of the best mid-size cities in the country for various reasons, but it’s also a great place to fall in love with rock climbing. With the tallest rock climbing wall in the world located in the heart of downtown Reno, our community is home to some of the best rock climbing destinations in the country. Not sure where to go rock climbing in the Reno-Tahoe area? Start with:

Base Camp at Whitney Peak

The 164 foot climbing wall on the side of the Whitney Peak hotel is not only the tallest rock climbing wall in the world, but it also offers some of the best views as well. Inside, you’ll also find an awesome bouldering park.

Big Chief

If you find yourself in the North Lake Tahoe area, be sure to stop in to check out Big Chief. With walls reaching over 250 feet, several short and well-bolted sport climbs, and more than 50 routes, it’s a great place for all levels of climbers.

Eagle Creek Canyon

Near Emerald Bay, you’ll find two great climbing spots in Eagle Creek Canyon. Mayhem Cove is a great spot for intermediate to advanced climbers, while the Ninety Foot Wall is a popular area for beginners as it offers an amazing view of Lake Tahoe.

Lover’s Leap

With more 150 established climbing routes, Lover’s Leap is a popular climbing spot. Scale a 600-foot chunk of granite and admire the beauty of being surrounded by towering pine trees. Lover’s Leap offers some of the best rock climbing around Lake Tahoe and there are even guided rock climbing and educational courses for all ages and abilities.

Mesa Rim Climbing Center

As the largest rock climbing gym in Reno, the Mesa Rim Climbing Center offers more than 24,000 square feet of climbing space. It’s a great place to build your skills and comfort level with climbing. The gym also features yoga and fitness area, locker rooms, a sauna, community areas, and a variety of classes.

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, Reno is the best place to call home. From hundreds of trails to go hiking and biking, cliffs to climb, and beautiful waters to paddle through, there are all kinds of ways to explore the Biggest Little City and the surrounding areas. For more information on what we love about calling Reno home, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guide through the city.

Veteran Programs in Reno

May 4, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

Reno has been home to an eclectic and close-knit community for many years, and we’re proud to have so many connections to the military. With so many veterans in the area, the city has some great programs to keep our service members connected. The veteran programs in Reno include:

Fit But Not Forgotten

The City of Reno hosts weekly community-based fitness classes in the facility weight room. This program covers equipment, fitness level assessment, strength development techniques, fitness goal discussion, endurance and flexibility. Upon completion of four classes, participants will be eligible for a free all-inclusive one-year facility membership. For more information on the Fit But Not Forgotten program, click here.

Military Sports Camp

The City of Reno will host 15 disabled veterans and injured service members with their spouse/
guest for a multi-day event taking place from September 14-18. There is no cost to military servicemen or women and their guest. Registration preferences will be given to Nevada Service Members and residents. For more information on Military Sports Camp, click here.

Military to the Mountains

22 injured veterans are trained for nine weeks at the Evelyn Mount Northeast Community Center and Double Diamond Athletic Club, preparing them for a week of skiing at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows in California each year. The veterans are instructed by Achieve Tahoe adaptive ski program. For more information about the previous year’s program, click here.

Project HERO City of Reno

This national nonprofit organization is dedicated to helping veterans and first responders affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Project HERO (Healing Exercise Rehabilitation Opportunity) provides training and supports cycling programs at military hospitals, Army Transition Units, Marine Wounded Warrior Units and Veterans Affairs locations to help healing heroes. For more information on Project HERO’s impact, click here.

These veteran programs are in addition to the generous number of athletic, social, and recreational programs and activities offered by the City of Reno. For more information on what we love about calling Reno home, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guides.

Relocation Guide: Schools in the Reno-Sparks Area

April 26, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

When relocating, one of the most important steps to take involves researching schools and school districts. Even if you don’t have school-aged children in your household, school rankings can play a big role in the resale value of homes. Know what public and private school options are in the areas you’re thinking about moving to.

The Reno-Sparks area is served by schools in the Washoe County School District, which covers nearly 100 schools in Northern Nevada. Those schools include:

Elementary Schools:

Middle Schools:

High Schools:

If you’re curious about what schools students are zoned for in the neighborhoods you love in the Reno-Sparks area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Kayaking in Northern Nevada

April 22, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

There’s nothing better than spending the summer months out on the water. Reno’s location makes water sports easy as there’s no shortage of places to go to hit the water in Northern Nevada. Check out some of the best places to go kayaking in the area.

Kayaking Destinations:

Truckee River Whitewater Park – Located in downtown Reno, this whitewater park has 11 drop pools and tons of features that draw in experienced kayakers every year. It’s even the destination for the Reno River Festival.
Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park – Sand Harbor has secluded beaches and eye-catching rock formations that give you some really amazing views while kayaking. They also offer some great places to rest if you get tired or are in need of a picnicking spot.
Zephyr Cove – As a popular Tahoe beach spot, Zephyr is a great place to go kayaking if you also plan to meet up with friends and family for a sunny beach day.
Kings Beach – With various launch areas, Kings Beach is a pretty easy trek to make with all of your gear. It’s also a great place to go if you’re new to kayaking or only have a limited time to be on the water.
D.L Bliss State Park – This is where you’ll get to experience the bright blue and turquoise water that is so often pictured in Lake Tahoe. The water is also pretty calm, so it’s an easy place to paddle along, but it gives you access to choppier water if you’re an experienced kayaker looking to paddle out to the south shore and check out Emerald Bay.

If you’d like to experience even more of Lake Tahoe this summer, be sure to check out the Lake Tahoe Water Trail. There are over 72 miles to explore and so many fun experiences to be had. Remember to be safe on the water, and always check the Lake Tahoe marine forecast, so you know what the conditions are like before hitting the water.

There’s a lot to do to keep your calendars full this spring and summer. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or just want something fun to do out on the water, kayaking is a great option. For more information on what Northern Nevada has to offer, recommendations on places to check out, or inside knowledge of the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guides.

Mexcal and Food Truck Fridays Bring Creative Flair to Reno Cuisine

April 18, 2021/in Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

Reno is a food lover’s dream city. With tons of amazing restaurants and food events that you can check out, you won’t have to travel far to find a menu that will make your mouth water. Mexcal and Food Truck Fridays are bringing creative flair to Reno cuisine, so make sure your tastebuds are ready for an adventure!

Mexcal

Mexcal has been open for about a year, and we can attest that they make killer Mexican food. With a creative menu full of tasty tacos and margaritas, you can’t go wrong. The pineapple jalapeno margarita and the ahi ceviche offer the light and refreshing tastes you’ll want to enjoy throughout the summer. The flautas are the perfect start to any meal, and we warn you now, you may not want to share them. If you need to end your meal on a sweet note, order the homemade churros as well.

Food Truck Fridays

Food Truck Fridays are returning this summer! After being canceled in 2020, we can’t wait to see this food truck event return to Idlewild Park in June. Every Friday in June, July, and August from 4 – 9 PM, you’ll be able to enjoy food and dessert options from a variety of vendors. As one of the top 10 largest weekly food truck events in the nation, you can’t miss stopping by to check out the amazing food. If you know of a food truck, trailer, or pop-up that you’d like to see at the event, make sure they submit a vendor application to [email protected] before the month of April is over.

We hope you’re just as excited as we are that Food Truck Fridays are coming back. Mexcal and Food Truck Fridays are just the cherry on top of the creative menus and delicious cuisine you’ll find throughout The Biggest Little City. If you’re in need of more recommendations on where to dine in Reno or if you need help navigating the current fast-paced real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re here to offer our expertise, and we’ll be by your side every step of the way.

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