From the out-of-this-world charm of ‘Sleepytime’ to Bingo's unexpected sightings of magic in the everyday, 'Bluey' is more than just a kids' show – it's a slice of life that resonates with adults, too. Recently, an episode of Bluey called ‘Ghostbasket’ went viral as millions of fans across the globe wondered what it meant for the Heeler family Bandit, Chilli, Bluey and Bingo, the kid-friendly Australian cattle dogs as they embarked on their own real estate journey, in putting their home on the market ahead of making a move to a new location.
Lessons from Bluey
That episode, and the next ‘The Sign’, captured a consequence of this significant life event, that in the rollercoaster of emotions and process, unfortunately, often takes a backseat to the broader narrative of real estate – the impact on children.
For adults, the process of selling the family home and relocating stirs up a rollercoaster of emotion – a blend of excitement and stress as we chart unknown territories. But for kids, the reality is different and can be forgotten. For some kids, it can be a blurring mix of loss, upheaval, and the critical disruption of daily routine.
So, this revelation begs the question – how can we, as responsible adults in their lives, make the transition smoother? In this blog we explore the delicate dynamics of real estate through the lens of a child's world to offer an insight on the things to think about as part of the journey you go on when it comes to the sale of life’s biggest asset.
The Emotional Landscape of Selling the Nest
In 'Bluey,' Bingo's rumination “But home is here!” is not just a whimsical thought; it's a poignant reflection of children's attachments to their homes. For many, selling a home can coincide with multiple changes – from leaving behind a bedroom adorned with memories, to parting ways with familiar neighbours or the local ice cream vendor with their favourite flavours where memories have been made. The myriad of emotions that children experience can range from confusion and sadness to resentment and even anxiety.
Recognising and Validating Their Feelings
The first step of kid-proofing the real estate transition is acknowledging that such life changes are a big deal for them. When adults engage in open and empathetic conversations, it normalises their feelings and instils a sense of assurance. Encouraging them to express their emotions be it through drawings, conversations, or playacting, can provide a healthy outlet and pave the way for understanding.
Familiar Rituals and Spaces
There's comfort in routine, and maintaining familiar rituals like story time in the living room or Saturday morning pancakes, can be real beacons of safety for kids amidst the change. Likewise, if selling allows for it, leaving a particular treehouse or sand pit for the new owners symbolises respect for the past and a cherished continuity for the child.
Preparing for the Move
The practical preparations for a move often overlook the child's perspective. Real estate preparation for kids means difficult tasks such as decluttering toys and not knowing where their beloved belongings end up. It's a time when parents need to balance preparation with sensitivity.
Involving Them in the Process
Empower children by involving them in age-appropriate moving tasks. From sorting their toys to packing a suitcase of their favourite items, this engagement can grant them a modicum of control and a deeper understanding of the process.
The Power of Storytelling
Creating a narrative around moving can be a powerful tool. Whether it's about adventure in a new place or the concept of 'home' being wherever the family is, a well-crafted story can transform their fears into excitement and anticipation.
Settling into the Unknown
Finally, the act of moving is just one part of the real estate transition. The settling-in phase in the new home is equally critical and, if managed well, presents an opportunity for growth and resilience.
Unpacking with Them
Unpacking their belongings first can aid in immediate ownership and comfort in the new space. Setting up their room in a familiar layout contributes to a sense of belonging and normalcy.
Building New Traditions
The creation of new family traditions that are unique to the new home area can shift the focus from what's left behind to the exciting possibilities ahead. It might be a new game night location, exploring local parks, or even starting a family garden.
The Role of Digital Ethos in Real Estate
In an age where technology is seamlessly integrated into our lives, the digital footprint of a property is more than just online listings. It's the virtual tours, community websites from the new locality, and educational resources that can demystify the location and make it more familiar to kids.
Virtual Tours and Familiarisation
Utilising interactive virtual tours is not just a convenient adult-pleasing feature; it's a kid-friendly tool that introduces them to their new home and combats the initial strangeness they might feel.
Reflecting on Bluey's Wisdom
The 'Bluey' experience is more than children's animation – it's a thoughtful commentary on familial dynamics and the everyday challenges families, and in particular children face. The real estate episode is a gentle nudge for adults to consider the impact of our actions and decisions on the little hearts and minds around us.
The episode underscores that what seems trivial to adults can be monumental in a child's world. It inspires a culture of appreciation for the depth of their experiences and the nuances of their perceptions.
Ultimately, selling a home with kids is an exercise in empathy and adaptation. By employing the techniques Bluey illustrates – open communication, shared experiences, and an optimistic approach to change – parents can guide their children through this pivotal life event with a little less stress and a lot more fun.
At Harcourts, our philosophy echoes this sentiment. Our real estate agents are not just here to facilitate transactions; they’re here to ease your family's transition by providing insights and support specifically tailored to your unique situation.
For more tips on moving with kids and ensuring a smooth real estate experience, visit Harcourts' 10 Tips for a Stress-Free Move with Kids Blog. We acknowledge that each family's needs are different, so we provide a range of resources to help you through every step of the home-selling process.
Remember, a home is more than just four walls and a roof; it's the love, the memories, and the laughter that make it. In the end, it's not about the house; it's about the family turning it into a home, wherever they may be.
Find your nearest Harcourts office HERE.
Originally published by Harcourts.
