Melanistic Magazine Vol 8

HOME OWNERSHIP 101

With Errol Scott

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY:

The process of simultaneously selling and purchasing a new home can bring several logistical and scheduling challenges. Add a larger family into the picture, and the challenges may quickly compound. Depending on the age of your children, their investment or resistance to the process can vary, however, including them directly or indirectly in the process can support a smooth transition.

THE SELL:

Keeping a home ‘staged’ but functionaland livable for a family can take somework but not totally out of your control:

• Consider allowing childrento choose some items fromtheir rooms that can be placedtemporarily into storage. The lessclutter is always better.

• Provide them with closed containersto quickly tidy their spaces before ashowing.

• Work closely with your Realtor forconvenient showing times to ensureroutines like dinner together can bemaintained for the family.

• Knowing ahead when the property is being shown can make it less stressful for the family to prepare. I recommend requesting advanced notices before viewings so that you are always prepared.

THE PURCHASE:

Buying a new home is a huge change forthe entire family so wherever possible:

• Allow children to attend viewings;this will be their home as well.Keeping them involved by allowingthem to choose bedrooms forexample may reduce hesitationsand reduce stress.

• Include children in conversationsaround school zones, access toparks and bus routes – thesedeciding factors will likely matterthe most to them

• Maintain a calendar to help explainthe process and guide expectations.While the details of inspection

dates, condition dates or closingdates may be too much for childrento understand, they do give a quickcountdown schedule to the bigmoving day. Your Realtor should beyour guide and will keep on top ofcritical dates.

You are the driver of both the selling andpurchasing process. By implementing agame plan and with the expertise of yourRealtor, you can make this a rewardingexperience for your entire family.

Follow me on IG @Hardbodyrealtor Connect with me 780-271-1114 www.errolscott.com