Moving is difficult enough in ordinary circumstances, but having to move with children can be an adventure. Don’t worry, though; there are a few steps you can take to make the process easier and find the ultimate match in rental living for your family.
Here’s an overview of what you should keep in mind:
- What kind of place are you looking for?
- What’s the process for getting utilities set up?
- Is the local school district a good match for your children?
- What kind of neighborhood do you want?
Type of Rental and Amenities
Apartments are the go-to example of a rental, but they don’t have to be what you go with. There are lots of luxury apartments to choose from, but other options include condos or houses. Which one you choose depends upon your needs and the size of your family.
You should also consider the amenities offered. Apartments and condos can have a wide range of features, such as pools, luxury interior design, fitness rooms, and even on-site restaurants. You can use online rental review sites to comb through all the options available in your area.
Utilities
The details of your utilities will vary depending on the terms of your rental agreement. Some landlords provide most or all utilities with the lease itself; in other cases, you might need to arrange some of them on your own.
One utility renters often need to secure on their own is internet access. You can use sites to compare internet providers in your area, narrowing them down by what locations they cover, service speed, price, and more. Always keep an eye out for fiber-optic options, which are far faster. You can also bundle your cable and internet to save money on both.
School Districts
Perhaps the most important factor in locating a rental for your family is finding one within a good school district. One tool for this is GreatSchools, a website dedicated to collecting information on schools in cities all over the country so you can quickly and easily find the right school for your children.
The Neighborhood
Be careful about what kind of neighborhood your new home is located in. It’s best to have a good mix of child-friendly activities nearby, such as parks, children’s museums, or zoos. On the other hand, try to avoid moving into a place surrounded by nightclubs or bars.
Some Final Tips
Remember that moving can be very stressful for children, who have to leave behind their old friends. To make it as easy as possible, try to get them to interact with other kids in the area as soon as possible. Take them to fun places nearby, such as amusement parks or zoos; eventually, they’ll start to love their new home just as much as the previous one.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the trouble moving can bring, but don’t stress. Use the tools above and be selective about your criteria and you’ll end up somewhere great.