If all of a sudden your dream job comes open FOR YOU in a city far away, would you have to think about it first or would you jump at the chance?
Why is the thought of starting over or doing something new exciting for some but nearly heart-stopping for others? Would you know what to consider to make the decision?
Hi, I’m Sherri Echols, Broker-Associate with RE/MAX Bryan-College Station. Here are 10 questions you should ask when considering relocation.
- Can I afford it? I’m sure this seems like an obvious thing to consider, but a big move can
be overwhelming financially.
You need to account for last-minute unexpected expenses, and make sure you have enough saved up to have a cushion to cover the things that just happen on top of paying for all the things you’ve already accounted for.
You don’t want stress like having a tire blowout as you’re driving to your new city, but you spent every penny just to pay the movers or turn on the electricity at the new home. Plan in some financial reserves.
- Are there friends or family who live near my new location? Relocating can make you feel
isolated and lonely at first. If the thought of leaving your support network makes life feel impossible, this may not be the right time for a relocation. And that’s OK. - What is the job market like there? Do your research first, and make sure you have a job
or savings to use before you move. Knowing culture and job markets can effect when and where you might choose to move. - Is it worth relocating for my job? This one has to do with the cost of living. The cost of
living varies from state to state and from city to city within the state.
Be sure to research average salaries for positions you would like and qualify for wherever you are thinking of moving to.
Actually knowing how much local groceries are, average rent/mortgages, gas, utilities, entertainment, taxes, etc. can help you negotiate the right salary to have the same or an even better standard of living than you have now.
- When is the best time of year to move? This may seem like a silly thing to consider, but in different cities or housing markets, available homes on the market and rent rates can actually fluctuate based on the time of
year.
Another consideration is the weather where you are moving from vs where you are
moving to. We want want your move to be safe so maybe don’t plan during the ice and snow storm season or the monsoon season.
- What is the real estate market like in the new location – and where are the “good”
neighborhoods? If you’re used to paying say $150,000 for a cute 3 bed 2 bath home in a great neighborhood, but the same type of home in your desired location goes for $550,000 you definitely want to know that upfront.
A Realtor will be a great source of information when you are relocating. I belong to an exclusive network of fabulous agents across the nation. Give me a call and I’ll refer you to an amazing agent wherever you want to go!
They can help direct you to whatever you are looking for.
- Is the culture of the city a good fit for me and could I actually be happy there? The same way when you choose a new home, you want to walk in and FEEL that it’s home, you
want to make sure the new city feels like home too. Different cities all have different
vibes, schools, indoor and outdoor entertainment and sports, shopping, culture, and all the things that are important to you. You want to make sure it’s a good fit for you and your personality.
I hope those ten questions help you in considering whether or not to move. If you have more questions or need help figuring things out give me a call! I’m here for you!
I’m your community market leader Sherri Echols, a helping hand for a happy home.
