Moving to a new town is never easy. But, sometimes, relocating comes with the territory, particularly when those whose chosen career paths require them to reside in parts of the country they might not have otherwise lived in or even visited. This can be both a joy and a hardship, when roots are pulled up and then replanted.

That's why many corporations are now counting on relocation specialists when it comes to bringing in new or transferred employees. With a relocation company, the process of moving can become more streamlined, making it less stressful not just for the employee, but for his or her family.

SIRVA Inc. is one such company, conducting over 300,000 relocations each year, transferring corporate and government employees and moving individual consumers.

In addition to its many other services, SIRVA provides residences for sale. One of its homes was occupied by a family that had relocated to Ventura County, but has since moved once again because of employment opportunities elsewhere. This home, located in the desirable Wood Ranch region of Simi Valley, is being offered for sale through Troop Real Estate Inc.

"It's in a beautiful location," said Jo Ann Poole, the listing agent. "Just off the peaceful, winding road of Wood Ranch Parkway and tucked away in one of the area's most recently built developments."

Situated in the guard-gated community of Cross Creek II, in the prestigious Long Canyon section, the two-story home, built in 2000, is thoroughly modern, yet reminiscent of New Orleans architecture, with its charming window accents in the front of the house, including faux shutters and ornamental balconies. The Southern feel continues on the inside, with a large and contemporary interior with high ceilings and a sweeping, antebellum-like open balcony that gives the home a "Gone With the Wind" quality.

"I love the floor plan of this home," Poole said. "It's truly an entertainer's dream."

Featuring a hardwood floor entry, lush cream-colored carpet, and a marble and glass fireplace, the elegant living room is just a few steps away from the dramatic formal dining room that showcases a large, impressive light fixture, included in the home's purchase.

The kitchen is styled in tasteful white cabinetry and tile, and boasts a five-burner gas stove, built-in microwave and chic plantation shutters that add flair and give the room the minimum or maximum natural light, depending on adjustment. Sharing space with the kitchen in true great room fashion is a family-friendly entertainment area that includes a fireplace and built-in cabinetry that can accommodate a television, sound system, DVD collection and more.

The great room's patio doors slide open to reveal a spectacular mountain view from the concrete patio, which also has a variety of mature plants, including roses and palms, along with a manageable lawn.

Upstairs, the approximately 3,195 square foot home has a bonus room with an adjacent full bathroom. The bonus room can be used as an office, a playroom or as an upstairs retreat. There also are two bedrooms separated by yet another bathroom, in traditional "Jack-and-Jill" style.

The spectacular master suite has a fenced-in balcony upon which the lucky homeowner can enjoy the breathtaking panorama outside. In the master bathroom, there are two closets and two vanities, each with sinks, and a round bathtub, surrounded by a crisp white tile enclosure. Next to the tub is a separate, spacious shower.

With all this expansiveness upstairs, the home is large enough to accommodate most families. However, one of the most exciting features is the downstairs bedroom and bathroom, with its own separate entry. While its neutral tones match the rest of this luxurious home, an aura of seclusion makes it the perfect living space for in-laws, teen or guest.

Other amenities include custom paint, ceiling fans, and dual heating and air conditioning. There's access to local scenic hiking trails, walking paths and community pools and spas. Wood Ranch Elementary school is nearby, as is the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, Wood Ranch Golf Club and a plethora of restaurants and shopping within the Wood Ranch community and elsewhere in Simi Valley.

Priced at $799, 999, the home is located on an 8,277 square-foot lot at 416 Woodland Road. Whether you're relocating from another part of the country, or planning to move from your current residence in Ventura County, this well-appointed home is one that will suit your entire family's needs. As a bonus, SIRVA, the current owner, is offering to help the buyer with the purchase.

"SIRVA will consider assisting the buyer with closing costs," said Holly Shanks of SIRVA.

For more information or to tour the home, call Poole at 584-3683.

For sale

416 Woodland Road,

Wood Ranch

$799, 999

Jo Ann Poole, Troop Real Estate

584-3683

Call for an appointment

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The kitchen, left, is styled in white cabinetry and tile. Sharing space with the kitchen in true great room, who's patio doors slide open to the backyard, below, which has a variety of mature plants, including roses and palms.