According to Psychology Today, mental health experts agree that moving to a new place is often overwhelming. Learn how to successfully navigate your upcoming career-related relocation with the least amount of stress possible by following the seven tips below, courtesy of Dappled Lights.
- Write Down Your Timeline
Moving for work often involves a strict deadline: Your starting date. Be sure to write down by which date you need to secure housing, find schools for your kids, and meet deadlines at your current and new jobs. Write down your moving timeline in an area that can be seen by the whole family.
- Perform Housing Market Research
Perhaps you live in a three-bedroom home in Iowa or a studio in Manhattan. No matter where you’re moving to, research the cost of living and be prepared to consider comparable homes that could cost dramatically more or less depending on your city of origin. You may wish to rent first instead of buying so you can get to know the area before committing long-term.
- View Virtual Tours
Virtual tours and neighborhood guides are a great option for people who cannot tour open houses or arrange for viewings of homes in person. You can research these online or connect with an agent in the area to find ideal houses, townhomes, or apartments for you to consider.
- Work With a Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent is your best bet for finding what your family needs if you are unfamiliar with the area. Do your research beforehand to find an agent, and don’t be afraid to interview several in the process.
- Gather Packing and Moving Supplies
For moving day, you should purchase boxes, packing tape, packing peanuts, and any other supplies that will keep your family’s possessions safe during the move. Pack a few days’ worth of clothes, toiletries, and essential electronics in suitcases that you can use until you find everything you need in your boxes. You may need to download a navigation app like Waze or Google Maps to get around the new city.
- Take Your Family’s and Business’s Needs Into Account
If you are bringing along a partner, does he or she have viable career opportunities in the new location? Your kids may need to visit schools ahead of time to judge the quality of instruction as well as the distance from your new home before you decide to buy a property.
If you’re moving your business to another state, you’ll need to register your company. If you’re currently structured as a limited liability company, you can use a low-cost formation service instead of an attorney to register your LLC in your new location.
- Budget for the Move
The process of moving, including hiring a moving company, buying supplies, and driving your vehicles to a new city or state can be expensive. If you’re moving for work, you’ve likely got a job lined up that can cover your expenditures, but you don’t want to max out your moving budget before you start traveling. Make a budget that covers gas money, airplane tickets, or hotel stays during the days you will be moving if you’re moving long-distance, and don’t forget to include your meals as well.
Talk with your family about their expectations before you start the moving process. Children and teens will likely need more time to process the idea of moving if they are attending different schools and leaving their old life behind. The more you plan and budget now, the more successful your move will be — and the faster you can begin your new life and job position.