Are you thinking about moving to a larger home? Maybe you're starting a family and need more space, or your family is growing and you need a bigger house. Whatever the reason, there are a few things you should keep in mind when making the move. Moving to a bigger house is usually very exciting, but it can be also overwhelming.
Here are 7 tips for moving to a larger home with kids.
1. Start by decluttering your current home.
This will make packing and unpacking easier and less stressful. Plan ahead and make sure you have the right supplies for the job. You'll want to get sturdy moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and other materials to ensure all of your items arrive safely at their new destination. Set aside time for cleaning your old home before the move. You don't want to leave a mess behind, so take some time before the move to clean and make sure everything is in order.
2. Get your kids involved in the process.
Have them help pack their own belongings and make sure they know which items are going to the new house and which are staying behind. Use the move as an opportunity to teach your kids about budgeting and organizing. Research schools in the new area and think about enrolling your kids if necessary. They may need to transfer schools, so it’s important to plan ahead.
3. Create a budget for the move
Make sure you factor in costs like movers, packing materials, and any repairs or upgrades needed for the new house. Moving can be expensive, so having a plan for how much you’re willing to spend on each step of the process will help keep costs manageable. Start shopping around for movers and other services early. Research different companies to make sure you’re getting the best deal and don't forget to read customer reviews. Ask your Realtor® for recommendations, they might already have a list of professionals with great reputations and pricing, as I do.
Find out what is included in your new home before you move in. Are utilities, furniture, or appliances included? Make sure all of these items are accounted for so that you don’t end up having to buy them later.
4. Label everything!
Create a plan for properly unpacking and organizing the new home. It will be much easier if everything is labeled with its destination. Moving into a bigger place can be overwhelming without some structure in place. Set up systems that make sense for you and your family, such as labeling boxes by room or color-coding them.
5. Set up a comfortable space for your family.
This can be a cozy living room, a big playroom for the kids, or just an area where everyone can hang out and relax. Having this designated area will make the transition easier. Take advantage of the extra space! Now that you have more room, think of creative ways to make use of it. Maybe turn one room into a home office or craft room, or another into an entertainment center.
6. Have a plan for furnishings and decorations.
Figure out what pieces of furniture you need in each room, then look for ways to make the house feel like home. Whether you’re using existing furniture or getting new pieces, make sure that everything is arranged and organized in the most efficient way. Hang up artwork or family photos and add a few decorative touches to give the place some personality.
7. Take time to Relax.
Make sure to take time for yourself throughout the process. Moving can be stressful, so it's important to take breaks and find time to relax, and schedule some fun activities with your friends and family. Go for a walk to explore your new neighborhood and meet your neighbors.
Give yourself plenty of time to adjust to the new space. It can take a while to get used to a new home, especially if it's much larger than your old one. Be patient and give yourself (and your family) time to settle in before making any major changes.
Making the transition from a smaller home to a larger one can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. With some planning and preparation, it can also be smooth sailing!
Good luck and Happy Moving!
Anna Fine is licensed real estate agents who can help you in the San Francisco South Bay Area and Pennisula. She has extensive knowledge of what to look out for and avoid when upsizing to a bigger house. She truely cares about her clients and will make sure that you not only get a great deal, but also that your transition is very smooth.
Contact Anna today to schedule a free consultation at 408-649-8351 | anna@annafinerealestate.com
