A new joint survey by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC and BabyCenter LLC offers some interesting insights into the minds of mothers when it comes to real estate, namely what motivates them to move.
They want more room and a nicer home first, but after that, it's all about the schools. They were willing to trade longer commutes, hold off of job transfers and remain in crummier climates to avoid moving children once they enter school. Most moved within 30 miles, usually to what they considered to be a better home in a better school district.
For example, the number of moms citing moving for an easier commute, dropped from a high of 34 percent during pregnancy to just 21 percent when their children are in grade school.
Moving because of a job transfer drops from a high of 27 percent when children are aged one-to-four to 17 percent when children are school age.
Those citing wanting a better climate as a reason for a move drops from a high of 13 percent with toddlers to just two percent after the kids enter school.
Of over 2,400 moms who moved in the last 18 months, an astonishing 68 percent moved during their pregnancies or within the first two years of their child’s lives compared to just 13 percent who reported a move after their children entered kindergarten. Nearly half moved with a preschooler in tow, but once children entered school, the story changed.
"We have long stated that lifestyle changes are reasons why people move and having a child is one of those defining moments in life that might call for a new home," said Jim Gillespie, president and chief executive officer of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "The study validates what real estate professionals have explained for years. Families work their way up in types and locations of their homes and eventually settle into their 'long-term' home when their children enter school, develop friends and engage in activities."
According to the survey findings, 43 percent of moms reported that they are nervous about being able to afford a good education for their children. Additionally, 50 percent of moms admit to worrying about their children getting a good education and good opportunities. The older the child, the less willing the moms are to move for a job, climate, or job change.
This suggests that mothers do their homework about schools before they are willing to move their children.
But where are they getting their information is the question - are they getting it from the schools, from their peers, from their real estate agents? And is that information accurate?
If you are a school administrator, a real estate professional, or a homeowner, it's in your interest to make sure that young families are attracted to your areas. If you want to build your neighborhood and schools, you need to get the word out to expectant parents and parents of toddlers that what you have to offer is what they want.
Work with your local school district to get the latest information about programs and success stories. Educate all the agents in your area about what your schools offer. Contact pediatricians and obstetricians and hospitals to get fliers about your neighborhood's schools and programs into their patients hands. Invite preschool mothers to real estate and school round-ups so they can learn about your neighborhood schools' programs before they make the decision to live somewhere else.
You can make a difference.
Author: Blanche Evans
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