Moving with kids requires extra thought, time, and planning, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By involving your children in the process, from decluttering to making decisions about the new home, you’re not just moving to a new place—you’re creating a shared experience that brings the family closer together. With the right preparation, open communication, and support from a knowledgeable realtor, you can make the journey of buying or selling a home with kids a positive and memorable one.
We had the opportunity to talk to Lisa Derenchuk of Re/max Professionals about how to make moving with a family easier. With over 25 years of experience, Lisa has had the opportunity to help many families find their new home. She is here to offer her experience and expertise on how to make moving with kids a little less challenging.
WP: You have many clients with kids. What is the biggest piece of advice they look for when moving?
LISA DERENCHUK: Great question! If you can believe it, it’s not so much the ‘buying of the house.’ This is what your experienced real estate agent is there to help you with! Most people have an idea of what they would be looking for and I work hard to check all their boxes. With kids, it’s more about getting them excited about the move.
My biggest suggestion would be to involve them in the process. Include them in everything from de-cluttering and donating items they won’t be bringing, to deciding on the colour of their new bedroom. Give them boxes and let them help pack their unbreakable things. They will feel like they are contributing, and you are making it a full family experience.
WP: What if you are dealing with kids that really doesn’t want to move. How can you get them excited?
LISA DERENCHUK: I see this often. I encourage parents to make it an adventure instead of it being a daunting change. Bring them to a few of the homes you are looking at. Often parents are worried their kids will be in the way, but it turns out just the opposite. By involving them, they have the opportunity to see first-hand and offer suggestions about what they like in a house. I enjoy having them there too! They often make the showing more relaxed and fun!
Once you have settled onto a home, show them around the neighborhood, where they would go to school, the parks nearby and maybe a friend’s house. Get them excited for more than just the house and you will find the transition so much easier.
Lisa Derenchuk is an experienced relator with more than 27 years of experience in the Winnipeg Real Estate Market and Mom to two great kids! Thinking of buying a new home, you can reach Lisa at: c. 204-952-7355 e. Lisaderenchuk@remax.net o. 204-452-4359
