ON THE MARKET: A happy experience

Published 8:00 am Thursday, June 4, 2020

By Don & Shirley Smith

A few days ago, I had the good fortune of meeting a new friend. She recently moved to the area and told me about her career in writing children’s books. Her award-winning books are life lessons as seen through a dog’s eyes, her beloved dog, Kibby. Her latest book, soon to be released is about moving.   This gave me the idea for this week’s real estate article.  

Last week, my article was about Baby Boomers and the older generation having to face a new chapter in their lives when they relocate. 

No matter what the age, it can be a frightening experience.  

This week I would like to address the children (of all ages) that will be having to face a new life when moving.

The home that they have grown to love and find comfort in will soon be in their past.  However, this can turn into a happy experience.

When you have reached the decision that you will be moving, it is important to discuss this with your family. Children all have different personalities and some children are more emotional than others. 

  • Listen to their feelings. It is hard to leave sports, friends and relationships. DISCUSS 
  • Respect their grief and emotions. Let them express their feelings.
  • Try to arrange to visit the area of their new home. Familiarizing them with the area will help them cope.
  • Let the whole family pack and feel part of every aspect of the move.
  • Have a get-together with their friends before the move, arranging stay-in-touch methods.
  • Lastly, take care of yourself. It will be easier to cope with the move when you are rested.

We have experienced that it is important for parents to involve the children as much as possible. We do not mean that children should influence the parents on which home to buy. It is wise to first look at homes without the children. When you have found the home that meets your needs, bring the children, and let them be part of picking their own rooms and get excited about decorating it. This is always a great way to introduce them to their new surroundings. Realtors are aware of the traumatic change that adults and children may encounter. Ask your Realtor to help you with schools, churches and local business’s that will make it easier for you to adjust. We have always tried to introduce our clients to new friends. They always appreciate it when we include them in some of our outings.  

Your Realtor should be there to assist you through and after the sales transaction.  

We all have our own insecurities. Some may have more than others. Moving is a big adjustment for all of us. Always remember, we all need friends and change is GOOD.   Adults and children are resilient.   

Award-winning book by Andrea Cassell:  “Kibby and Olive Move To Georgia,” soon to be released in July, a must-read!

Thought for the Day: We all have problems.  The way we solve them is what makes us different.