Archive for August, 2025

Fall Moving Tips for Edmonton Families: Start the School Year in the Right Home

Tuesday, August 26th, 2025

As school routines begin and the pace of summer slows, many Edmonton families are still considering a move. While summer is traditionally seen as the peak season for real estate, fall can offer smart opportunities for those planning their next chapter. Whether you’re relocating within the city or making a bigger lifestyle change, this season provides flexibility, calmer market conditions, and a chance to align your home with your evolving family needs.

Why Fall Can Be a Smart Time to Move in Edmonton

Fall offers several advantages in the local real estate market. With fewer buyers competing, families often gain more negotiating power and time to explore properties without pressure. Sellers who listed during summer may now be more open to flexible terms or price adjustments, especially if they’re motivated to close before winter.

The weather also remains cooperative during early fall, making showings and moving logistics easier than in snow-covered months. For families who didn’t find the right home in the summer, fall provides a second wave of opportunity with less competition and more breathing room.

Tips for Families Moving After School Has Started

Moving after the school year begins presents unique considerations—but with some planning, it can be a smooth experience. Start by maintaining consistent routines for kids during the transition. Keeping morning schedules, meal times, and bedtime rituals steady helps reduce stress.

If a school change is involved, reach out to administrators early. Edmonton Public and Catholic schools often accommodate mid-year enrollments, but paperwork and planning still take time. Schedule a visit to the new school ahead of the move to ease first-day jitters and help your child feel comfortable in their new environment.

What to Look for in a Family-Friendly Home This Fall

When choosing a new home, prioritize features that align with your family’s school-year lifestyle. Proximity to schools, public transit, and local parks is key for busy households. A short, safe commute to school can make daily routines much easier for both kids and parents.

Inside the home, look for layouts that support your needs: space for homework, organized entryways for backpacks and shoes, and functional kitchens for after-school snacks and dinners. Mudrooms, finished basements, and fenced yards can also add long-term value to family life.

A realtor who understands your priorities can help you narrow down listings with features that truly matter during the school year.

Making the Most of the Fall Market

Buying or selling in fall doesn’t mean rushing. Instead, it’s about taking advantage of a balanced market and setting realistic expectations. A typical real estate transaction in Edmonton takes 30 to 60 days from offer to possession. Planning now can still lead to a move before winter weather sets in.

For sellers, focus on highlighting family-friendly features in your listing and staging—especially functional spaces and cozy fall ambiance. For buyers, stay prepared with mortgage pre-approval and a clear timeline so you can act confidently when the right home comes along.

Edmonton Families Deserve Homes That Support Their Routines

Moving in the fall is more than a timeline decision—it’s about finding a home that supports your family’s lifestyle throughout the school year and beyond. These fall moving tips for Edmonton families are designed to help you make informed decisions, reduce stress, and take advantage of what the season offers.

Whether you’re settling in before the snow falls or planning ahead for a fresh start, a thoughtful fall move can position your family for comfort, convenience, and long-term success. For guidance tailored to your timeline, contact the Dave Ozubko Real Estate Team at 780-966-8227 we’re here to help you find the right home, right when it matters most.

Back-to-School Routine Tips for Pets in Edmonton: Help Your Pet Adjust Smoothly

Monday, August 4th, 2025

 

When kids head back to school, the shift in household routine can be significant—not just for parents, but for pets too. After a summer of activity, attention, and companionship, pets may suddenly find themselves alone in a much quieter home. For families in Edmonton, this time of year is an opportunity to reset—not only for school routines, but for how we care for our pets during these changes.

How Pets React to the School-Year Shift

The house gets quiet. The kids leave earlier. Walks, playtime, and meals might shift to different hours. These changes—though normal for humans—can be unsettling for pets.

Signs your pet might be struggling include:

  • Barking or whining when the house empties
  • Destructive chewing or bathroom accidents
  • Pacing, hiding, or reduced appetite
  • Excessive excitement when family returns home

Understanding how your pet responds to routine changes is the first step in helping them adapt.

Simple Routine Resets That Make a Big Difference

Start by adjusting your pet’s schedule a few days before school begins. Gradually shift feeding and walk times to align with the new daily rhythm. Practice short separations so your pet isn’t surprised by long, quiet days. Morning enrichment—like puzzle toys or a stuffed Kong—can help redirect energy and provide mental stimulation after the family heads out.

After-school rituals are just as important. Whether it’s a walk, play session, or some quiet cuddle time, these moments help pets reconnect with their people and feel secure in their new routine.

These small changes add up, and they’re especially helpful in homes where pets are used to constant companionship.

Create a Pet-Friendly Home That Supports Their Well-Being

Your home plays a major role in how your pet experiences routine shifts. A cozy resting space, access to natural light, and a few engaging toys can make alone time more manageable. Families who are moving or settling into a new home this fall can also plan ahead by considering layouts that support pet routines—like mudrooms for easy outdoor access or quiet corners for daytime naps.

As a real estate team that advocates for pets and families, we often help Edmonton buyers and sellers think through these needs. A pet-friendly space can make daily routines smoother—not just during back-to-school season, but all year long.

Tips for a Stress-Free Transition

Set your pet up for success with these thoughtful back-to-school strategies:

  • Use departure cues wisely: Keep goodbyes calm and low-key. Making a big fuss can increase your pet’s anxiety when the house empties.
  • Keep background noise on: Soft music, TV, or a white noise machine can make your pet feel less alone during quiet daytime hours.
  • Rotate toys regularly: Keep solo playtime interesting by swapping out toys every few days to maintain novelty and engagement.
  • Offer treats with purpose: Use food puzzles or timed feeders to break up long stretches of alone time with something rewarding.
  • Keep energy in check: A brisk morning walk or quick backyard game before the school run can help pets stay relaxed while you’re away.

 A Smooth School-Year Transition Starts at Home—for Pets Too

Adjusting to the school year isn’t just about packing lunches and setting alarms—it’s also about supporting every member of the family, pets included. With a little planning and a lot of love, your home can remain a calm and comforting space for your furry companion.

These back-to-school routine tips for pets in Edmonton are simple, actionable ways to reduce stress, build structure, and help your pet thrive during this seasonal shift. And if you’re thinking about a move, Dave Ozubko Real Estate Team here to help you find a home that fits every member of your family—paws included.