Moving across town can be challenging enough, but when you’re relocating to a different state the move takes on new challenges. Ones you’ve probably never considered.
In addition to finding a home, packing, and hiring a moving company, there’s also your job to consider, state taxes, and figuring out how to get around in your new home town.
When you’re planning to relocate to a different state, here’s what you need to consider and plan for:
- Visit Before You Buy
Make at least one trip, more if you can, to the area you’re moving to. Get a feel for the neighborhoods, where the local grocery stores are, and where the local attractions are. This will help you decide on the perfect neighborhood for your needs. Get yourself a local guidebook, do some online research, and talk to locals to find out what your new home state and home town have to offer.
- Research School Districts
If you have school-aged children, this is especially important. You’ll want to make sure you find a home in a school district you really like. But even if you don’t have kids, buying a home in a good school district will give you good resale value down the road should you ever decide to sell.
- Create a Budget
Moving to another state is far more expensive than moving to another city or just across town in your own state. Even a DIY move of renting a truck and driving it yourself is pricey due to the extra mileage and the fact that you’ll be returning it to a different location. Add to that the cost of boxes, packing materials, and any unexpected expenses.
Before you prepare to move, it’s important to figure out how much you can afford to spend on the move then find options that are below your budget. This will give you some extra room for any unexpected expenses.
If you’re moving for work, talk to your employer to find out if they’re willing to contribute to your relocation expenses. Many companies will help cover these costs if they’ve asked you to relocate.
- Find a New Home
It’s ideally better to have a home to move into before you actually move. Storing your belongings and renting a home or apartment while you’re shopping for a new home will only add to your moving expenses.
Your best option is to work with a Realtor. They are familiar with the local housing market, the school districts, and the various neighborhoods. They’ll be able to help you find a home that meets your search criteria and they’ll help you get acclimated to your new area with tips for the best restaurants and attractions.
In addition, they’re also familiar with state specific real estate laws so they can help you negotiate the best price for your new home and help you with any necessary paperwork.
- Research Moving Options
Talk to several moving companies to get the best quote for your move. Then, compare these prices to some DIY options like renting your own truck or container that you can fill and have moved for you. Doing your research and comparing all available options is the best way to ensure a budget friendly move.
If you decide to hire a moving company, check their online ratings, ask for references, and look into their Better Business Bureau listing. Doing this homework can save you a lot of hassle later from a company that causes damage or lost property.
- Pack Strategically
Moving is the perfect time to declutter and get rid of a lot of stuff you probably don’t need. Go room by room, closet by closet, and start purging things you don’t want to take with you. It will save you a lot of hassle and expense over moving them then discarding them later.
Once you’ve decluttered, pack by room, labeling each box as you go. For boxes that contain things you’ll need right away like towels and sheets, write the contents on the front and top of the box so you can easily locate these things on your arrival.
Relocating to a different state is challenging and difficult, but if you plan properly, get help from professionals, and do your homework, it will be a lot easier to manage.
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