Relocation is often presented as an exciting new chapter. A new home, a new area, new opportunities and, perhaps, a welcome change of scenery. But sometimes moving isn’t everyone’s choice. At Chiltern Relocation, we know that some of the most challenging relocations are the ones where somebody doesn’t really want to go. That might be an employee who has been asked to relocate for work, or a private relocation where one partner is enthusiastic about starting a new chapter while the other is rather reluctant.
This is something we see at Chiltern Relocation more often than you might imagine. In both situations, the practical arrangements are only part of the challenge. The emotional side of moving can be just as significant.
What is a reluctant relocation?
As part of our role, we help to move both corporate clients both internationally and within the UK, in addition to private clients looking for their dream home.
An employee may have been offered an exciting opportunity, but that opportunity could also mean leaving behind a home, friends, family, schools, routines and a community they have spent years building. For their partner, the situation may be even more complicated with their career being affected. Their own social life may be disrupted and they may have concerns about being further away from family or simply feel that they didn’t choose this change.
In terms of a reluctant relocation for our private clients, this can sometimes be witnessed when a couple have differing views on the upcoming move. We have met dozens of couples over the years whereby one is happy to stay with the status quo (usually living in London) and the other wants to move to somewhere greener and secure a bigger house and garden for their growing family. The question of schooling is often a major factor for the move and this is one area where both parties are generally in agreement. The Chilterns boast many excellent schooling options including the selective grammar school system which is a huge draw.
We listen to everyone’s priorities
One of the most important parts of our role at Chiltern Relocation is listening. Not just to the person who has initiated the move, but to everyone affected by it. We want to understand what each person needs from their future home and their future location.
It may mean balancing one partner’s desire for a new lifestyle with the other’s concerns about work, friends, family or community. A family relocation can involve several different sets of requirements. Chiltern Relocation takes the time to understand what matters to each person.
When partners have different views, we start by understanding both points of view. We can help identify the non-negotiables for each person, as well as the areas where there is flexibility. And sometimes, simply having an independent person involved in the process makes conversations easier.
We take the pressure out of the search
Relocation can become exhausting when you’re trying to do everything yourself. Searching property websites late at night. Driving for hours to view houses. Trying to work out which areas are actually suitable. Comparing schools, transport, amenities and prices. Wondering whether the house you have fallen in love with is actually in the right location.
And if one person is already reluctant, the process can become even more frustrating. This is when we get to know you, understand what you’re looking for, research the market, identify suitable areas and properties, arrange viewings and help you assess each option objectively. You don’t have to spend every weekend driving around unfamiliar locations. Our search starts with a Viewing Day together and this is when we really get to learn about everyone’s preferences.
Case study of a reluctant mover
We were approached by Mr and Mrs M who wanted to move out of London for more space, access to the countryside and excellent schooling options. Whilst on paper the move was an obvious one it was also a move that was driven by Mrs M. Understanding the benefits of the move was easy but Mr M had lived and worked his whole life in London, so for him it was a big step outside the comfort zone.
Chiltern Relocation set up a call with the couple to fully understand the drivers for the move and arranged a Viewing Day to visit potential properties and discuss locations, schooling and social amenities. Spending time in the area helped to build a picture of how their new chapter could look. The couple realised they could swap their Victorian terrace house for a large detached property with a sizeable garden close to the train station and excellent local schools within a vibrant community. The couple offered on a house that went to sealed bids that we successfully won and they haven’t looked back!
A successful relocation isn’t just about the destination
Moving home is a major life change. For some people, it is exciting from day one. For others, there is a period of uncertainty, sadness or resistance — particularly when the decision wasn’t entirely theirs.
At Chiltern Relocation, we don’t believe in simply selling people the dream of a new location. We believe in listening and understanding what matters to them. Whether you’re an employer relocating an employee and their family, or a couple trying to reconcile two very different ideas of home, our role is to make the process more considered, more informed and, ultimately, more manageable.
Because the goal isn’t to find a house that one person loves – it’s to find somewhere everyone can call home.
With over 20 years’ experience in sourcing property and unrivalled local knowledge, Chiltern Relocation can take on the stress of the search and guide you through the all the steps to finding exactly what you are looking for. Speak to Chiltern Relocation to find out more about our home finding and relocation service. Please do contact us on 01494 672086 or email enquiries@chilternrelocation.com
