It's a Family Affair

Welcome back to part four - One of the biggest things to consider when selling a family home is how the move affects everyone involved.

Over the following two pages, we share real-life moving experiences from a family of six. It's shared from the perspective of a mum, dad, teenager, tweenager, six-year-old and even their pet dog (we took some creative licence with that one).

Mum's the Word

"I felt joy when our home was bought, and our onward offer was accepted. My husband and I were delighted yet nervous, and as parents, we wondered how our children would react to leaving their familiar surroundings. To our relief, the children responded with incredible positivity, highlighting the adaptable nature of young minds, even in the face of a big change." Amelia, mum of three.

Fatherly Advice

"The best advice I can give any parent during a home move is to keep the kids informed, keep a sense of humour and perspective, control what you can and employ the right agent to handle your sale. Aim to be over-prepared rather than the opposite." Dan, dad of three.

Kids' Play

 "I was a bit sad to leave my friend next door. But guess what? There's a girl next door at the new house, too. That made me excited! I thought our new house would be bigger, and I was right! There's more room for my toys." Olive, 6.

Quick Tip: Create a Memory Book

Before you leave, take the time to document your memories associated with the home. You might take photos of each room, collect stories from each family member, and assemble these in a scrapbook. This can be a comforting keepsake that celebrates the home's role in your lives.

Now let's hear from a tweenager (12 years old), a teenager (17) and the family dog (18 months old). We asked our young movers for advice for anyone in their age group whose families are moving home. Here's what they shared.

Stay Positive

"If you're worried about the move, talk to someone about your feelings. Think of the fun parts of moving – maybe a bigger room, nearer friends, a new home. But it was annoying when our house was all packed up, ready to move, because I couldn't find my stuff. Overall, I'd say always look for the positives as there are plenty." Nancy, 12.

Teen Spirit

"My first thoughts were a bag of mixed emotions. I was excited about the prospect of getting a bigger room. But when the decision was made that we were selling our old home, I thought, oh no, they are going to make me pack and tidy my room. Start tidying and packing your room the minute you know you're selling/moving, and make sure the wifi is strong in the new place." Harry, 17.

It's a Dog's Life

"I knew something was changing when all these strangers kept turning up and looking around my house. They even put me outside sometimes so these humans could walk around my home. They gave me more treats when this happened, so I was happy. Going to the new place was filled with new smells and walks, and I got a new bed. I want the strangers to come to this house so I can get more treats again." Lincoln, the dog.

Quick Tip: Rover.com has a great article featuring 23 ways to help your pets adjust to a new home.

For more tips on moving as a family, check out our free step-by-step guide to selling your family home on our website or by clicking on this link

Thanks for reading from Nick and Teresa at Quarters Residential Estate Agents Wokingham.