Moving? Don’t Forget to Do Your Research

New jobs often mean new scenery and lots of excitement, but it’s easy to forget these important steps in the moving process. 

You’ve been offered a new job in a different city. Great! In many cases, this is an excellent opportunity to reset, recharge, and renew. Moving to a new area can have huge benefits for you and your family, but think about all of the different aspects and issues you might encounter throughout the process. Today, Monica Smith of RecoveringWorks.org shares a bit of insight to help make your move as seamless as possible.

Cost of Living

If you’re thinking about moving away from Boston, you may be pleasantly surprised at the cost of living. As one of the top 26 most expensive cities in the US, your dollar may stretch further in other locations. If you’re planning a move to Denver, for example, your cost of living will be about 25% cheaper. Keep in mind that your employer will likely pay around 10% less but, even if you can’t maintain your current salary, moving across the country might be a smart move.

Housing Availability

The housing market across the United States remains hot. In many areas, houses only stay on the market for a short time and sell above the list price. This means it may be difficult to find the right house before you physically relocate. Renting can be a great option to allow you to get an idea of the different neighborhoods, size, and amenities in your budget.

The weather

The weather is also something to consider before making a move. Using the same Boston/Denver example, the weather isn’t terribly different. However, the biggest fluctuation of the thermometer comes during the summer. Boston summers are typically comfortable and warm with slight humidity. Denver can get sweltering hot during the deepest part of the summer. Of course, there is no right or wrong climate but do your research to learn the good, bad and ugly aspects of seasonal changes in your chosen area.

Potential for Job Advancement

Will you have a job when you arrive at your new location? Fortunately, if you’re planning on making your move to Boston, U.S. News & World Report acknowledges what Bostonians already know: that Boston has a better job market than most places, especially in the healthcare sector. Regardless of your job status, it’s wise to check on the employment prospects in your chosen city. That way you’ll have lots of opportunities when you’re ready to change jobs.

Other Considerations

●      Will your family be happy? According to Niche, Naperville; Illinois, The Woodlands, Texas; and Arlington, Virginia, are the best cities to raise families. Some areas are more child- and pet-friendly than others.

●      Does your new city have access to the amenities you want? Love baseball? Boston has Fenway Park. Love college football? Don’t move to Ypsilanti, Michigan. Think about the things that you do today – and may take for granted.

●      Consider your priorities? Miami is considered the healthiest city in America, followed by Atlanta and San Francisco. New York is considered the most walkable. Wayland, Massachusetts was rated the safest. Love the arts? Tubac, AZ is said to have the best small-town arts scene. Thinking these things through in advance can help you decide whether relocation is a “good move.”

●      Is it possible to stay put? As many jobs have become remote, it may not be necessary to move at all – or you could move to your dream destination regardless of your employer’s location.

Ultimately, moving – whether for a job or not – is a huge decision that will have a long-lasting impact on your family. Do your best to go into the process fully prepared and informed. Enlisting the help of a local will be a huge advantage for navigating the process both before and after you arrive.

Moving to Boston? Christine McCarron of RE/MAX Unlimited is truly your personal Boston Real Estate Guru.

 Image from Canva.com