Real Estate Relocation Guide: 7 Steps to a Seamless Move

No matter what your reasons are for moving to a new area, the process can seem overwhelming. Whether you’re relocating to a different neighborhood or to an entirely different state, you’ll be changing more than just your address. In addition to finding a new house, you may also need to search for new jobs, schools, doctors, restaurants, stores, service providers, and more.

Of course, you’ll need to pack your belongings, make moving arrangements, and possibly sell your old home. With so much to do, it’s understandable if you’re wondering where to start.

In this guide, we outline seven steps to help you get prepared, get organized, and get settled in
your new community. We hope to alleviate the hassle of relocating—so you can focus on the exciting adventure ahead!

1. Gather Information

If you are not familiar with the area you are moving to, start by doing some research.1 Look for information on average housing prices, demographics, school rankings, and crime statistics. Search for maps that illustrate the local geography, landmarks, public transportation routes, and major interstates. If you are moving across the country, research the climate and seasonal weather patterns.

It’s a good idea to explore local newspapers and blogs to gather information about political issues and any recent happenings that could have an impact on your new community. You may also want to search for online forums and Facebook groups that relate to your new area. These forums can be an excellent source of information, allowing you to ask questions, learn about local attitudes and perspectives, and gain a better understanding of your new community.

If you’re moving to a new location for a job, it’s a good idea to check whether your new employer provides any relocation assistance. Many big companies have a dedicated human resources professional who helps employees with their relocation efforts, while others may outsource this service to a third party. Some employers may also cover all or part of your relocation and moving expenses. By gathering this information upfront, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions later on.

If you require any help with gathering information, please let us know. We possess a vast amount of knowledge in this field, and we maintain several reports and statistics in our office. We are delighted to provide you with information and address any queries you may have.

2. Identify Your Ideal Neighborhoods

After conducting thorough research on your new area, you can begin to pinpoint your ideal neighborhoods.

The first step is to prioritize your needs and wants. Consider factors such as budget, commute time, quality of schools, crime rate, walkability, access to public transportation, proximity to restaurants, shopping, place of worship, and neighborhood vibe.

If possible, it’s recommended that you visit the area in person to get a better sense of the community. When you feel comfortable, try to strike up conversations with the local residents and ask them about their experiences living in the area.

If you’re still uncertain about which neighborhood would be the best fit for you and your family, consider contacting a local real estate agent for expert assistance. This is usually the most efficient and effective way to narrow down your options and find the ideal neighborhood for you.

We provide neighborhood assessments and advice as a free service if you relocate to our
area. Or, if you’re moving out of town, we can refer you to a local agent who can help.

3. Find Your New Home (and Sell Your Old One)

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of preferred neighborhoods, it’s time to start looking for a
home. If you haven’t already contacted a real estate agent, now is the time. They can search for
current property listings that meet your needs, typically at no cost to you.

Please create a new list consisting of “needs” and “wants” for your new home. In addition to the basic requirements such as square footage, bedrooms, and bathrooms, think about other factors that are important to you and your family. Do you need an updated kitchen? Do you want a large backyard? Do you prefer double sinks in the master bathroom? Consider these factors while creating your list.

To start your home search, it’s best to narrow down your list to your top 10 and prioritize them by importance.2 Keep in mind that unless you have an unlimited budget, it’s not realistic to expect to find a home with everything on your list.3 However, creating a prioritized list can help you and your agent understand which home features are most important to you, and which ones you’re willing to compromise on.

If you currently own a home and are planning to buy a new one, you will need to begin the process of either selling or renting out your current property. It is advisable to seek the help of a real estate agent who can guide you on the best course of action based on current market conditions. They can also help you determine your current home’s equity, which will give you an idea of how much you can afford to spend on your new home.

Your real estate agent can provide you with valuable advice on how to time the sale and purchase of your property. While some buyers may be capable of qualifying for and covering the costs of two concurrent mortgages, this is not the case for everyone. Fortunately, several options are available, and a skilled agent can assist you in determining the optimal course of action based on your circumstances.

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in our area, we’re here to help. Please feel free to contact us and schedule a free consultation so we can discuss your unique needs. We’ll then create a custom plan to make your relocation as smooth and stress-free as possible. For those who are moving to a new city, we can also help you find a reliable agent in your new location.

4. Prepare for Your Departure

Packing is generally considered a vital aspect of the moving process, but we often tend to forget the emotional preparation that is also required. This is particularly important if you have children. It is essential to communicate the move to them in a way that they can understand, depending on their age, and if possible, take them on a tour of your new home and neighborhood. This can help alleviate some of the uncertainty and anxiety they may feel about the move.4

It’s important to give yourself enough time to pack up your belongings. Before you begin, make sure to gather all the necessary supplies such as boxes, tape, tissue paper, and bubble wrap. Start by packing up non-essential items such as off-season clothes or holiday decorations. Categorize your items into four groups: things you want to take with you, items to be thrown away, those you want to sell, and items to be donated or given away.5

To simplify the unpacking process, make sure to label the top and sides of each box with useful information such as contents, room, and any special instructions. Additionally, it’s a good idea to keep a master inventory list so that you can refer back to it in case something goes missing.

If you’re planning to use a moving company for your relocation, it’s best to start researching and comparing the prices of different options available. To ensure an accurate estimate of your final bill, having them conduct a personal walk-through of your belongings is recommended. Make sure to work with a reputable moving company and avoid paying a hefty deposit before your belongings are delivered.6

If you are planning to drive to your new home, it is important to map out your route beforehand. Additionally, you should consider making arrangements for overnight accommodations along the way, in case you need to take a break. If driving is not a viable option, you may need to have your vehicles transported and make travel arrangements for you, your family, and your pets.

Before your departure, schedule final get-togethers with friends and family you will leave behind. Make sure to block off some time in advance for proper goodbyes, as the last days before moving can be hectic.

Looking for a reputable moving company? We are happy to provide referrals, as well as
recommendations on where to procure packing supplies in our area.

5. Prepare for Your Arrival

To make your transition go smoothly, prepare for your arrival well before moving day. Depending on how long your belongings will take to arrive, you may need to arrange for temporary hotel accommodations.

If you are planning to move in directly, it’s a good idea to pack an “essentials box” with all the things you’ll need for the first couple of nights in your new home. The box should include toiletries, toilet paper, towels, bed linens, pajamas, cell phone chargers, snacks, pet food, and a change of clothes.7 This will help you avoid searching through boxes after a tiring day of moving.

It is important to arrange in advance for the utilities like water, electricity, and gas to be turned on in your new home. Additionally, you must schedule a shut-off date for your current utilities. You should update your address on all accounts and subscriptions and arrange to have your mail forwarded through the postal service. If you have children, make sure to register them for their new school or daycare and arrange for the transfer of any necessary records.

Also, it’s advisable to consider having your new home professionally cleaned before moving in. If you plan to undertake any remodeling, painting, or flooring installations, it is best to complete these tasks before bringing all of your belongings in. However, this may not always be possible without someone you trust locally who can supervise the work. In such cases, it may be better to keep some of your belongings in storage while you complete these projects.

If your new home does not have any window treatments, it is recommended to install some. This is especially important in bedrooms and bathrooms where privacy is important. In case your new home is missing appliances, it is a good idea to purchase them ahead of time and arrange for delivery and installation shortly after you arrive. However, be sure to check the measurements and installation instructions carefully to avoid any issues such as an appliance that doesn’t fit or that requires costly modifications.

Do you own a car? Check the requirements for a driver’s license and vehicle registration in your
new area and contact your insurance company to update your policy.8 If you will rely on public
transportation, research options and schedules.

If you’re relocating to our area, we can help! We offer “VIP Relocation Assistance” to all of our
buyer clients. Contact us for a list of preferred hotels, utility providers, housekeepers,
contractors, and more!

6. Get Settled In Your New Home

While staring at an endless pile of boxes can feel daunting, you should take advantage of this
opportunity to make a fresh start. By creating a plan ahead of time, you can ensure your new house is thoughtfully laid out and well organized.

By following our suggestion to pack an “essentials box” (see Step 5), you should have easy access to everything you’ll need to get you through the first couple of nights in your new home. This will allow you some breathing room to unpack your remaining items gradually, instead of rushing through the process.

If you have young children, consider unpacking their rooms first. Seeing their familiar items can
help them establish a sense of comfort and normalcy during a confusing time. Then move on to
any items you use daily.9

Pets can also get overwhelmed by a new, unfamiliar space. Let them adjust to a single room first, which should include their favorite toys, treats, food and water bowl, and a litter box for cats. Once they seem comfortable, you can gradually introduce them to other rooms in the home.10

As you unpack, make a list of items that need to be purchased so you’re not making multiple trips to the store. Also, start a list of needed repairs and installations. If you have a home warranty, find out what’s covered and the process for filing a service order.

Although you may be eager to get everything unpacked, it’s important to take occasional breaks. Have some fun, relax, and explore your new hometown!

Need help with unpacking, organizing, or decorating your new home? Contact us for a list of recommended professionals in our area. And when you’re ready to start exploring local “hot spots,” we’d love to fill you in on our favorite restaurants, stores, parks, and other attractions!

7. Get Involved In Your New Community

Studies show that moving can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. People who have recently moved tend to be isolated socially, more stressed, and less likely to participate in exercise and hobbies. However, there are ways to combat these negative effects.11

First, get out and explore. In a 2016 study, recent movers were shown to spend less time on physical activities and more time on their computers, which has been proven to lead to feelings of depression and loneliness. Instead, get out of your house and investigate your new area. And if you travel on foot, you’ll gain the advantages of fresh air and exercise.12

Combat feelings of isolation by making an effort to meet people in your new community. Find a local interest group, take a class, join a place of worship, or volunteer for a cause. Don’t wait for
friends to come knocking on your door. Instead, go out and find them.

Finally, be a good neighbor. Make an effort to introduce yourself to your new neighbors, invite
them over for coffee or dinner, and offer assistance when they need it. Once you’ve developed
friendships and a support system within your new neighborhood, it will truly start to feel like home.

Want more ideas on how to get involved in your community? Contact us for a free copy of our report, “Welcome Home: 10 Tips to Turn Your Neighborhood Into a Hometown Haven.”

LET’S GET MOVING

While moving is never easy, these seven steps offer an action plan to get you started on your new adventure. To avoid getting overwhelmed, focus on one step at a time. And don’t hesitate to ask for help!

In a 2015 study, 61 percent of participants ranked moving at the top of their stress list, above divorce and starting a new job.13 But with a little preparation—and the right team of professionals to assist you—it is possible to have a positive relocation experience.

We provide specialized assistance to individuals who are buying or selling homes. We aim to make the relocation process as seamless and stress-free as possible. We have a referral network of service providers such as movers, handymen, housekeepers, decorators, and contractors, who can help you manage your move without any hassle or headache. You can contact us via call or message to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

To search for homes in your area, visit our website or email us today for a free home valuation.

Sources:

1. You Move Me –
https://www.youmoveme.com/us/blog/105-tips-for-a-successful-relocation
2. HouseLogic.com –
https://www.houselogic.com/buy/house-hunting/must-have-items/
3. Livestrong –
https://www.livestrong.com/article/436651-the-effects-of-sunlight-fresh-air-on-the-body/
4. Parents Magazine –
https://www.parents.com/parenting/money/buy-a-house/make-moving-easier-on-you-and-your-kids/
5. The Spruce –
https://www.thespruce.com/starting-to-pack-for-your-move-2436470
6. Moving.com –
https://www.moving.com/tips/hiring-quality-movers/
7. The Spruce –
https://www.thespruce.com/unpack-your-entire-home-2435815
8. HouseLogic.com –
https://www.houselogic.com/buy/moving-in/before-you-move/
9. HGTV –
https://www.hgtv.com/design/real-estate/moving-checklist
10. Moving.com –
https://www.moving.com/tips/how-to-unpack-and-organize-your-house/
11. ASPCA –
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/moving-your-pet
12. Psychology Today –
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/is-where-you-belong/201607/why-youre-miserable-after-move
13. The Daily Express –
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/574171/Divorce-stressful-moving-home