August 09, 2025

As summer winds down and back-to-school buzz picks up, August becomes one of the most strategic and popular months of the year for families to make a move. Whether you're upsizing, relocating for work, or finally making the leap into homeownership, timing your move around the school calendar can offer big benefits. But moving with children also adds layers of complexity. This might include verifying school zones and aligning closing dates with class schedules.

At The Monarch Group, we work with families across Louisville, LaGrange, Crestwood, and beyond who are looking to settle in before the first bell rings. In this blog, we’ll walk you through why August is such a prime time for family-focused moves, what you need to know about school zones and compliance, and how to pull off a smooth transition without the stress.

Why August Moves Matter for Families

If you're a parent, chances are you've considered how a move could impact your child’s school year. That’s exactly why August is one of the busiest months for residential real estate.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, July and August consistently rank as the peak months for household moves, and a large portion of these are families with children under 18. A 2023 report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that 53% of buyers with children say school calendars directly influence their homebuying decisions.

The appeal of moving in August is clear. It offers families a short window of time to get settled before the chaos of the school year begins. Moving now means your child can start the new school year in their new home, form friendships early, and avoid the disruption of switching schools mid-semester. For parents, it’s a chance to get into routines, meet new neighbors, and establish a rhythm before fall.

While it’s not without its logistical challenges, an August move offers the perfect mix of timing, intention, and opportunity, especially when you’re working with a team that understands the local market inside and out.

School Zones & Compliance: What You Need to Know

When you're moving with children, school zones are often top of mind; but it’s important to navigate this topic with care.

Under Fair Housing laws, real estate professionals are prohibited from steering clients toward or away from neighborhoods based on school quality. That means we don’t (and legally can’t) rank schools, make subjective claims, or imply one district is “better” than another.

What we can do is help you verify school zoning and direct you to reliable, third-party sources so you can make informed decisions for your family.

If you’re curious about school assignments or comparing academic programs, here are a few trusted resources to guide your research:

GreatSchools.org
SchoolDigger.com
Jefferson County Public Schools or your local Board of Education zoning maps

When you're browsing homes, look for phrasing like “located within XYZ school zone” rather than asking which schools are “the best.” This ensures you're staying compliant while still prioritizing your child’s educational needs.

At The Monarch Group, we help you ask the right questions and explore your options while respecting both the law and your family’s goals.

Buying with Kids in Mind: What Questions Should You Be Asking?

When you're shopping for a new home with children in tow, there's more to consider than just square footage and curb appeal. Your child’s daily routine, sense of safety, and social development are all tied to your living environment. That’s why it’s important to think through the full picture.

Here are some smart, school-year-focused questions to ask when buying a home with kids in mind:

How far is the school from the home? Will your child walk, bike, ride the bus, or need to be driven?
What’s the traffic like during school hours? Are there safe crosswalks, sidewalks, and speed zones nearby?
Is before- or after-school care available nearby? If you work outside of school hours, this can be a game-changer.
How close are playgrounds, libraries, and community centers? These aren’t just perks; they’re lifestyle enhancers.
Does the neighborhood feel safe and welcoming? Your instincts matter here and community energy is key.

By focusing on proximity, access, and functionality (not subjective school ratings) you can confidently evaluate whether a home supports your family’s lifestyle and needs.

Our team at The Monarch Group is here to walk you through that checklist and match you with neighborhoods that align with your family’s everyday rhythm.

Neighborhood Features Families Love (Besides School Ratings)

While schools play a role in many family decisions, they’re far from the only factor. In fact, the features that often make a neighborhood feel like home are the ones that support life beyond the classroom.

That’s why we always encourage families to look at the full community experience. Ask yourself:

Are there playgrounds or parks nearby for weekend downtime?
Is the area walkable, with sidewalks or trails?
Are there local sports leagues, community pools, or family events happening nearby?
How far is the nearest library, ice cream shop, or coffee spot where you can connect with other parents?

Areas like St. Matthews, Crestwood, and LaGrange are beloved not just for their home styles and locations, but for their tight-knit communities and family-friendly infrastructure.

The Monarch Group is deeply rooted in the Louisville area. We know which neighborhoods offer that “it just feels right” vibe, even if the school rating isn’t the centerpiece of the conversation.

Planning a Smooth August Move: Timing, Tools & Tips

Now that you know August is the ideal time to move for many families, the next challenge is making it happen, fast.

If you're aiming to move and settle in before school starts, you'll likely need to close and move within 30 days. While it may sound daunting, it's absolutely doable with the right plan (and the right people by your side).

Here’s how to keep your August move on track:

Get pre-approved immediately and work with a responsive lender.
Time your closing date with your child’s first day of school in mind.
Book movers, utility transfers, and internet installation early because August is a high demand season.
Prep a “school essentials” box that includes enrollment docs, school supplies, backpacks, and your child’s favorite comfort item.
Do a soft move-in over a weekend to give your family time to adjust before school starts.

To help, we’ve created a free downloadable checklist: “The August Moving Guide for Families” with everything you need to stay organized and stress-free.

And if you need help connecting with movers, contractors, local utility providers, or anyone else in the process…The Monarch Group has you covered.

Final Thoughts: The Monarch Group is Here for Your Family’s Next Move

Whether you’re upsizing, relocating across town, or buying your very first home, August is an ideal time to make the leap—especially for families wanting a fresh start before school begins.

At The Monarch Group, we understand the ins and outs of timing, zoning, and family life. We guide you every step of the way, help you make compliant and confident decisions, and connect you to a home (and a neighborhood) that fits your family's lifestyle.