moving to reno | David Morris Group

Relocation Guide: Family-Friendly Attractions in the Reno Area

October 12, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Relocation Information, Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

Reno has a long history of being a gambling town, but over the years, the Biggest Little City has grown to include swaths of small businesses, a top Carnegie® research university, eclectic communities with stunning homes, and so much more. While Reno will probably never fully ditch its party and gambling reputation, there are so many things that make it a family-friendly place to call home. To prove it to you, we’ve outlined some of our favorite family-friendly attractions in the Reno area.

National Automobile Museum – As one of America’s top 10 auto museums, the National Automobile Museum is a top Reno attraction that features 200 eye-popping cars and a theater.
Animal Ark – As a wildlife sanctuary and education center, Animal Ark is a safe haven for injured, abandoned, and otherwise non-releasable wildlife. They provide a lifelong home for animals that don’t have the skills to survive in the wild and encourage visitors to learn about their stories.
The Discovery – Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum – The Discovery is known for being where children can discover science through unique, hands-on programs and exhibits. There’s always something new happening at the museum. From exhibits to events and partnerships to build creative and critical thinking skills, you’ll never be bored here!
Sierra Nevada Zoological Park – Home to over two hundred animals and over forty different species, the Sierra Nevada Zoological Park is the largest zoo in the state. It’s a great place to visit zebras, camels, leopards, monkeys, lions, and tigers.
Wilbur D. May Museum – The Wilbur D. May Center features a museum, arboretum, and botanical gardens — leading to hours of fun! The May Museum houses the private collection of Wilbur D. May, and you’ll find thousands of rare and exotic artifacts, as well as traveling exhibitions, special programs, and events.
Carnival Midway – Located in Circus Circus Reno at THE ROW, the Carnival Midway offers fun for kids and adults alike. There are more than 40 arcade-style games, circus shows, carnival acts, and more to keep everyone entertained.
The Puzzle Room – This escape game is a great way to get everyone working together to piece together a series of puzzles and solve the mystery. There are five different themes to choose from, so you can keep coming back for more fun.
Kimmie Candy Factory Tours – Did you know that Reno is home to a candy production facility? You can even schedule an appointment to take a free tour of the factory and watch as they create their confectionery and chocolate treats.
Fly High Trampoline Park – Need to help burn off some of that excess energy that kids seem to have in abundant supply? Check out Fly High! They have foam pits, trampoline dodgeball, and areas to accommodate beginners as well as seasoned jumpers.
Reno Aces Baseball – The spring and summer months are packed full of baseball games you can attend. There are 60+ home games and all kinds of special events and promotions to take part in.

This list is only the beginning of the family-friendly attractions that are at your disposal, and the list only grows each year! If you have questions about moving or what it’s like relocating to the Reno-Sparks community, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Relocation Guide: Navigating the Snow and Ice

September 27, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

The weather is fickle in Reno, and it’s easy to see it change from sunshine to snow in the blink of an eye. We’ve even seen snow blanket the streets in May during a late season. If you’ve never lived in a town that experiences snow or if it’s simply been a while since you’ve seen snowflakes fall from the sky, check out how you should be navigating the snow and ice this winter.

Winterizing Your Home

Each winter, homeowners can face unexpected expenses and inconveniences to make drastic repairs after a battle with frozen pipes. Luckily, there are some precautions you can take to avoid any problems.

Inside Preparations:
- Insulate pipes or faucets in unheated areas. If you have water pipes in a garage or crawl space under the house, wrap them before temperatures plummet.
- Seal off access doors, air vents, and cracks. Repair any areas where cold winter winds can get in to freeze exposed pipes, but do not plug air vents that are needed for your furnace and water heater.
- Know where the master water shutoff valve is and which way to turn it to shut off the water. Shutting the water off in times of a pipe burst can save your home from damage and save you money.
Outside Preparations:
- Shut off and drain your irrigation system. Disconnect outdoor hoses from faucets and allow them to drain.
- Insulate outdoor pipes and faucets.

Winter Driving Tips

Normal driving habits will need to be modified to drive safely in winter weather. When driving, be sure to:

Put on your low beam headlights. The reflection of the light off snow, ice, and water can diminish your vision.
Don’t use cruise control.
Clear the windows of snow and ice and defog windows before driving.
Avoid making quick starts and sudden stops.
Keep tire chains with you during the winter months.
Know the snow and ice control routes that will tell you when you can expect the streets you will be driving along to be plowed.

Winter Resources

Navigating the snow and ice takes some time and practice when you’re new to the area, but with some preparation, you’ll be handling the cold weather like a longtime resident in no time! If you have questions about moving or what it’s like relocating to the Reno-Sparks community, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Relocation Guide: Wildfire Emergency Preparedness

September 13, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

Reno’s close proximity to Lake Tahoe and dense vegetation make wildfires a natural disaster that residents may face. With that in mind, we’ve created a wildfire emergency preparedness guide with some helpful information and resources.

Prevention and Preparedness

Live more safely with the threat of wildfire by making your home fire safe, improving your home’s defensible space, making sure there’s easy access to your neighborhood and home, and having an evacuation plan.

Fire Safe Homes – Ensuring your home is well constructed and well maintained will decrease the risks of your home igniting during a wildfire.
- Siding – Make sure there are no gaps in the siding and trim of your home. Replace the poorly maintained materials or fill them with good quality caulk.
- Rain Gutters – Plant debris should regularly be removed from rain gutters.
- Wooden Fences – Keep wooden fences in good condition and have a noncombustible section or gate next to the first five feet of your home.
Improve Defensible Space – Take care of the vegetation around your home.
- Base of Home – Keep combustible materials away from the first 5 feet of your home. Well irrigated plants, rock mulches, or hard surfaces should be the only things near your home.
- Green Areas – The landscape within the first 30 feet of the home should have very little flammable vegetation with dead vegetation being removed immediately. Keep healthy, green, and well-irrigated plants in this area.
Accessibility – Make sure that emergency responders can easily access your home and neighborhood. This will allow quick response times and easy evacuations if necessary.
- Address – Address signs should be easy to read. Use contrasting noncombustible material and make sure the numbers are at least six inches high.
- Street Signs – Each intersection should be posted with street signs made of reflective and noncombustible material.
- Driveway – If your driveway is longer than 150 feet, a turnaround suitable and large enough for fire equipment is required.
Evacuation Prep – Make sure that your family understands how to safely and effectively evacuate by taking steps to prepare in advance.
- Have emergency phone numbers posted in central areas of your home that are easily accessible.
- Know how to turn off the water, gas, and electricity to your home.
- Have a safe meeting place to gather with your family if you get separated in an emergency.
- Have photos and videos of your house, the landscape, and the contents in your home. This will be important for insurance purposes. Try to keep this up to date.
- Lay out the possible escape routes and safe area, so that everyone in your family knows their escape routes wherever they are in the home.
- Have an EVACUATED sign ready to go that you can post and make clearly visible from the street.
To-Go Bags – Prep for an emergency by having at least a three-day supply of necessities ready to go and easily accessible for every member of your household. Include things like:
- Clothing and personal toiletries.
- Flashlight, portable radio, extra batteries, and chargers.
- Extra set of car and house keys.
- Contact information for family, friends, physicians, insurance, etc.
- Important documents like birth certificates, passports, licenses, etc.
- Cash

Resources

Staying prepared for any emergency situation can help ease a stressful situation. We hope this wildfire emergency preparedness guide helped you learn about the precautions you can take now to keep your home safe, and please use the resources we’ve outlined to stay up to date on how to protect yourself.

If you have questions about moving or what it’s like relocating to the Reno-Sparks community, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Relocation Guide: Costs of Moving to a New Home

August 27, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

Purchasing and selling a home can come with some unexpected or hidden costs, and the same is true for moving. The less obvious costs of moving to a new home can catch some homeowners by surprise, and we want you to be prepared for every step of your home purchase experience. Below are some costs to consider and prepare for before making a move.

1. Moving Supplies

Safely transporting your belongings to your new home starts with proper packing. You’ll likely need a variety of boxes, packing tape, packing peanuts, moving blankets, and packing paper. We recommend reaching out to your network of friends, family, and coworkers to see if they have any supplies they’re willing to donate. If you’re looking to buy boxes, they run anywhere from $1 – $15, depending on the size.

2. Movers

Moving is a big production, and it’s likely you’ll need to hire a company to help. Remember to vet the moving companies, check their reputation, get references, and most importantly, ask about cost and what is included in the estimate. You don’t want to be blindsided by an added charge that wasn’t explained to you when you asked for an estimate, so make sure they are explicit on what you’re paying for. Hiring professional movers costs an average of between $562 and $1,554, while an out-of-state or cross-country move averages about $1,000 per room.

3. Professional Cleaning

A new home is a fresh start, so why not give the home a fresh start as well? Paying for a professional cleaner to come in and deep clean your new home is a great way to prepare to make the house a home. Cleaning companies typically charge by the hour or by the square footage. On average, homeowners report spending between $116 and $235 to have their homes professionally cleaned.

4. Paint

Painting a home is much easier when the home is empty. You can cut some costs by doing it yourself and only paying for the supplies you need, or you can pay a professional crew to get it done quickly. The painting of the interior of your home by professionals will cost, on average, somewhere between $1.50 and $4 per square foot.

5. Utilities

Before moving in, you’ll want to have water, gas, electricity, internet, and cable set up. Some utility companies may charge an added set-up fee or a service fee, so be sure to keep a little extra money set aside to cover those costs. Check with your local utility providers to get a breakdown of the first-time costs and the monthly costs.

These are just the costs that people don’t think about or underestimate! There are also other items to prepare for like the cost of new furniture, a storage unit, lawn care, groceries, changing the locks, a security system, etc. We recommend sitting down to budget out how much you expect to spend to move and settle into your new home, then add a generous cushion for any unexpected costs that may arise.

If you have questions about moving or what it’s like relocating to the Reno-Sparks community, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Relocation Guide: Important City Phone Numbers and Contact Information

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

When moving somewhere new, it’s always a good idea to have a list of important phone numbers handy in case of emergencies or if questions and concerns arise. If you’re new to the Reno-Sparks area, we’ve compiled some important city phone numbers and contact information of local agencies, organizations, and businesses that will come in handy during your move or during an emergency.

Non-Emergency Numbers

Reno Police – 775-334-COPS (2677)
Reno Direct – 775-334-INFO (4636)
Sparks Police – (775) 353-2231
Nevada Highway Patrol – 775-687-0400
Reno Fire Department – 775-334-2300
Sparks Fire Department – (775) 353-2231
Washoe County Sheriff’s Office – 775-785-WCSO (9276)
Washoe County Regional Animal Services – (775) 353-8900

Utilities

NV Energy – 775-834-4444
Truckee Meadows Water Authority – 775-834-8000
Waste Management – 775-329-8822
Washoe County Department of Water Resources – 775-954-4601
City of Reno Sewer – 775-334-2095
City of Sparks Sewer – 775-353-2360

Internet and Phone Services

Spectrum – 866-874-2389
AT&T – 800-288-2020
HughesNet Satellite Internet – 855-826-7664

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

Relocation Guide: How to Meet and Connect with People After Relocating

July 27, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

Making a big move comes with a long to-do list. After tackling the most important moving tasks, it’s important to focus on yourself and your loved ones — to connect with the community and build bonds. Let’s take a look at how to meet and connect with people after relocating.

1. Check out mobile apps

There are all kinds of mobile apps that are geared towards helping people find like-minded individuals and connect. Meetup is a great app that works across thousands of cities, including Reno, to help people find events and groups that they can join.

2. Adopt a dog

Pets are a great way to connect with people. Reno is a very dog-friendly city. Go out for hikes with your dog, take them for walks around your neighborhood, and walk around the various parks. You’re sure to connect with other dog owners while getting to explore more of the city!

3. Find a Facebook group for you

Social media sites, by their definition, are meant to help people connect and build social communities. There are various pages and groups for you to connect with. Simply searching Reno in the Facebook groups tab brings up all kinds of great options for connections!

4. Attend local events

Reno is known for all of the wonderful events that go on every year. Going out and experiencing what the city has to offer is a great way to find people, businesses, and organizations that you’d like to learn more about.

5. Take a class

Find things you’re passionate about or new hobbies you’d like to try and take a class. From yoga classes to art workshops, there are a ton of options to choose from.

6. Check out the library

The Washoe County Library System has tons of resources, events, and groups. Their motto is “connect, gather, explore” for a reason. It’s a great place for people of all ages to meet and find what interests them.

7. Volunteer or become a part of a non-profit

Getting involved with an organization that gives back to the community is a great way to connect with that community. The Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce is a great place to start when looking for non-profit and community-minded organizations to join.

Moving to a new city is an exciting time. If you have questions about relocating and need more tips on how to connect with the Reno-Sparks community, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Relocation Guide: Tips to Make Moving with Pets Easier

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

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!

Relocation Guide: The Ultimate Moving Checklist

June 29, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

Moving takes a lot of planning and preparation. Starting early can save you from any added stress farther down the line. The best tip we can give you is to start sooner than you think you need to and use this ultimate moving checklist as a guideline to keep you on track for the big move.

Six to Eight Weeks Before Moving:

Compile a list of everything you want to move to your new home.
Research moving companies and request moving quotes.
Go through your belongings and discard anything you no longer use/need. A yard sale or donation center are great ways to get rid of some items.
Gather moving boxes and packing materials for your move. Use a Sharpie to label boxes.
Contact insurance companies (life, health, fire, auto, etc.) to inform them of your new address.
If you’re moving for work, you may be eligible for moving expenses. Contact your HR department for more information.
Contact the new school district for information on the registration process and begin gathering the necessary documents needed to send to the school.

Four Weeks Before Moving:

Contact utility companies to either set a turnoff or transfer date. If moving out of state, contact the new utility company to designate a turn on date.
Collect your medical records. Contact all of your doctors to obtain these documents for your records and have them transferred to a new medical facility near your new home.
Look in your pantry, fridge, and freezer and plan meals around the food you currently have, so you have less food to throw out or get rid of when you move.
High-end jewelry and valuables should be transferred to a safety deposit box during your move.

One to Three Weeks Before Moving:

Create an itinerary for moving day to ensure you are at the house when the movers arrive. Plan to have kids and pets stay with a family friend/relative.
Change your address with USPS.
Change your address with any bank accounts and credit cards.
Moving long distance? Be sure to have your vehicles serviced and oil changed before the long trip.
Cancel home services like the cleaning company, lawn services, pool services, etc.
Wrap up the majority of the packing. Just leave out the essentials to be packed last minute.
Collect items you will need for traveling and set them aside. Doing this will ensure you have everything you need until the moving company arrives at the new house.
Give your furniture a once-over and jot down any scratches and dents; that way, you can compare notes with the movers at the end of your partnership. You may also want to take pictures of the larger furniture pieces/valuable items, just in case you need to submit a claim for any damaged or missing items after the move.
Prepare a floor plan to designate where the furniture will go ahead of time. This will help the movers on move-in day.

Moving Day:

Do a walk-through to make sure no items are left behind.
Confirm your new address with the moving company and double-check that they have the correct contact information.
Move out! Turn off all lights and utilities, make sure all windows and doors are locked, and notify your real estate agent you have left the property.

If you need more tips to make moving easier 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!

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!

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!

Posts

Winterizing Your Home

Winter Driving Tips

Winter Resources

Prevention and Preparedness

Resources

1. Moving Supplies

2. Movers

3. Professional Cleaning

4. Paint

5. Utilities

Non-Emergency Numbers

Utilities

Internet and Phone Services

DMV

Schools

Medical Facilities

1. Check out mobile apps

2. Adopt a dog

3. Find a Facebook group for you

4. Attend local events

5. Take a class

6. Check out the library

7. Volunteer or become a part of a non-profit

A Month Before Moving:

Moving Day:

Post-Move:

Six to Eight Weeks Before Moving:

Four Weeks Before Moving:

One to Three Weeks Before Moving:

Moving Day:

Talk to your kids about the move

Involve your kids in the planning

Start months earlier than you think is reasonable

Moving with toddlers and preschoolers

Moving with grade school kids

Gather information about the new school and transfer process

After moving day

Receive More Information

Certifications & Affiliations