Family move month - a guide from Neil Mercer Properties

🏡✨ Family Move Month: Your guide to moving with children in Thrapston and Northamptonshire 

June has long been recognised as Family Move Month across the UK, and it's easy to see why. As the academic year draws to a close and the promise of summer holidays beckons, families across Thrapston and the wider Northamptonshire area begin to consider making their next move. Whether you're looking to upsize, downsize, or simply find a better fit for your growing family, June presents the ideal window of opportunity. 

Why June is Perfect for Family Moves 

The timing couldn't be better for families in our area. By June, secondary school places have been allocated, giving parents the clarity they need about their children's educational future. The longer daylight hours mean more flexibility for viewings, and properties showcase beautifully with gardens in full bloom – something particularly important in Northamptonshire's picturesque market towns like Thrapston. 

Moving in June also allows families to settle into their new home before the summer holidays begin. Children have time to explore their new neighbourhood, make friends, and feel comfortable before starting the new school year in September. There's something reassuring about having those extra weeks to transform a house into a home. 

Understanding School Catchments in Thrapston and Beyond 

One of the most critical considerations for any family move in Northamptonshire is understanding school catchment areas. The county boasts some excellent educational institutions, from outstanding primary schools in Thrapston to the well-regarded secondary schools serving the wider area. 

However, moving house can potentially affect your child's school place, even if they've already been allocated a spot for September. Different schools have varying admission policies, and distance from home often plays a crucial role in determining places. Some schools operate strict catchment boundaries, while others use more complex criteria. 

Before making any move, we always recommend checking with the specific schools your children will attend. Northamptonshire County Council's admissions team can provide detailed information about how a house move might impact school places. It's worth noting that some schools have waiting lists that could work in your favour if you move closer, while others may have already allocated all available places. 

For families moving to Thrapston specifically, the local primary school enjoys a strong reputation, and the town's excellent transport links mean secondary school options in nearby Oundle, Corby, and Kettering remain accessible.

The Importance of Garden Spaces

If the past few years have taught us anything, it's the immense value of outdoor space for families. In Thrapston and throughout Northamptonshire, we're fortunate to have access to beautiful countryside, but having your own garden space creates daily opportunities that can transform family life. 

A garden becomes so much more than just outdoor space – it's where children learn to ride bikes, where families gather for summer barbecues, and where morning coffee feels like a small daily holiday. Even modest garden spaces can accommodate trampolines, vegetable patches, or simply provide a safe place for children to play while parents keep an eye on them from the kitchen window. 

Northamptonshire's property market offers excellent value for families seeking homes with good-sized gardens compared to many other areas of the country. From Victorian terraces with surprisingly generous rear gardens to modern developments 
designed with family life in mind, there are options to suit every budget and lifestyle. 

The market towns surrounding Thrapston – including Oundle, Rushden, and Higham Ferrers – offer particular appeal for families seeking that perfect balance of good schools, community feel, and access to green spaces. Many properties in these areas feature established gardens with mature trees and shrubs, providing instant outdoor appeal. 

Essential Tips for Moving with Children 

Moving house consistently ranks among life's most stressful experiences, and adding children to the equation can feel overwhelming. However, with the right preparation, it's entirely possible to make the process smoother for everyone involved. 

Before the Move 

Start conversations early. Children thrive on routine and certainty, so explaining what's happening and why can help reduce anxiety. Create a timeline they can understand, marking important dates like viewing days, moving day, and their first day at a new school if applicable. 

Involve children in age-appropriate ways. Older children might help research the new area or school, while younger ones could help choose paint colours for their new bedroom. This involvement helps them feel some control over the situation. 

Take photographs of their current room layout. This simple step can be invaluable when setting up their new space, helping maintain familiarity during a time of change. 

Packing Strategies 

Pack children's rooms last and unpack them first. Having their familiar belongings around them as quickly as possible helps with the transition. 

Create a "survival kit" for moving day and the first night. Include favourite toys, comfort items, snacks, phone chargers, and a change of clothes. Pack this separately and keep it easily accessible. 

Consider packing one box per child with their name on it, containing items they'll want immediately. Let them choose some of these items themselves. 

On Moving Day 

Keep routines as normal as possible. If your toddler usually naps at 2pm, try to honour that even on moving day. If bedtime involves specific stories or rituals, maintain these in your new home. 

Plan activities for different scenarios. Have indoor activities ready in case viewing the new garden needs to wait, and outdoor activities if children need to burn off energy. 

Consider arranging childcare for the actual moving hours if budget allows. Professional movers can work more efficiently, and children are spared the disruption and potential safety concerns. 

After the Move 

Explore your new area together. Walk to local shops, find the nearest park, and identify key locations like the library or community centre. In Thrapston, families often enjoy walks along the River Nene or visits to the local market. 

Join local groups quickly. Thrapston has an active community with various groups for families, from toddler sessions to sports clubs. These connections help both parents and children feel part of their new community. 

Be patient with the adjustment period. Some children adapt quickly, while others need more time. Maintain open communication and don't worry if there are a few tears or tantrums – they're completely normal. 

Why Choose Neil Mercer Properties for Your Family Move 

Moving with children requires more than just property expertise – it demands understanding of what makes a house truly suitable for family life. At Neil Mercer Properties, we've helped countless families across Thrapston and Northamptonshire find homes that work for their specific needs. 

We take time to understand what matters most to your family. Whether that's proximity to outstanding schools, access to green spaces, or properties with features like downstairs cloakrooms and utility rooms that make family life easier, we listen to your priorities. 

Our local knowledge extends beyond property details. We can advise on school catchments, recommend family-friendly areas, and share insights about community facilities that make such a difference to family life. Having been part of the Northamptonshire community for years, we understand the nuances that make certain locations particularly appealing to families. 

We also coordinate closely with other professionals involved in your move. From recommending family-friendly removal companies to connecting you with solicitors who understand the urgency of completing before school terms begin, we're here to make your move as smooth as possible. 

Making Your Move This June 

If you've been considering a move, June really does offer the ideal timing for families. School places are settled, properties show at their best, and there's time to establish yourselves before the new academic year begins. 

The Northamptonshire property market offers excellent opportunities for families, from characterful period properties in Thrapston's historic centre to modern family homes on the town's outskirts. With good transport links to larger centres and access to outstanding schools, the area continues to attract families seeking that perfect balance of rural charm and practical convenience. 

Don't let another year pass wondering "what if." Family Move Month is here, and the perfect home for your family could be just a conversation away. 

Ready to start your family's next chapter? Contact Neil Mercer Properties today for expert guidance on finding your ideal family home in Thrapston and throughout Northamptonshire. Call us for a no-obligation discussion about your moving plans – we're here to make your family's move as smooth and stress-free as possible.   

Contact us by email neil.mercer@kwuk.com or phone 07825114858.