Written by Natalie Jones at homeownerbliss.info
Packing up and moving to a new state is always an exciting adventure. But before you take the leap, it’s important to spend some time on preparation and planning. Your relocation will go a lot more smoothly if you find a home that perfectly meets your needs, plan your move well in advance, and secure work ahead of time. In this article, Pro2120 Property Management will explore some of the crucial steps you need to take before moving to a new state.
Prepare for Your New Cost of Living
Your cost of living could change significantly when you move between states. You may find that the cost of housing in your new state is significantly higher or lower than in your previous state. For example, BestPlaces.net reports that the overall cost of living in Indiana is much lower than the US average. If you’re moving from a state with a high cost of living, you can expect to pay less for almost everything, including groceries, healthcare, housing, utilities, and transportation. The average cost to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Indiana is just $710 per month, compared to $1048 on average across the US. However, a low cost of living typically comes with lower average salaries. Make sure you know what to expect!
Find the Perfect Home
If you’re looking to buy or rent a home in another state, prepare for long-distance house hunting. Sold.com suggests starting by narrowing down a few non-negotiable characteristics for your ideal house and neighborhood. This will serve as a jumping-off point for your research and discussions with real estate agents. Online blogs, local forums, and city guides can also help you get a feel for different neighborhoods remotely. Remember to consider important neighborhood factors like traffic, ease of transportation, recreation opportunities, and nearby employment opportunities when evaluating potential homes.
Invest in a Warranty on Your New Home
If you’re buying a new home remotely, investing in a home warranty could be a smart move. A home warranty will provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected repairs to home systems and appliances that you may not be able to evaluate in person before buying the home. Unlike homeowner’s insurance, a home warranty will cover repairs to appliances and systems such as your cooling, heating, electrical, and HVAC. Click for more information to find out if a home warranty is right for you!
Secure a Job
Landing a job before moving to a new state will ensure financial stability and reduce stress during the relocation process. To get started, research job openings in your new state, focusing on your current industry. You can also reach out to recruiters in your field and let them know you’re moving to the area. Networking online with professionals in your industry is another great way to uncover opportunities, both in-house and remote.
Update Your Life
You still have a lot to do before you can settle into your new home. Put together a checklist of all the steps you need to take to get your life up to speed in your new state:
- Notify the post office, your bank, and credit card companies of your change of address.
- Register to vote.
- Find new healthcare providers, including doctors, dentists, and specialists.
- Register your car.
- Update your license.
- Join relevant online groups to connect with new friends.
- Evaluate your health insurance coverage.
- If you have a pet, find a new veterinarian and pet sitter.
Whether you’re moving for family, career opportunities, or a simple change of scenery, relocating to a new state is a major transition. Careful planning and preparation will ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. By researching the cost of living, securing a job ahead of time, and investing in a home warranty when buying long-distance, you can ensure your relocation is both successful and stress-free!
Are you looking to rent out your previous home instead of selling? Pro2120 Property Management can help! Contact us today so we can discuss your needs. Call 866-477-6104