Moving sounds like an exciting adventure: new friends, new restaurants, new areas to explore, and new opportunities. You get to start fresh and begin new routines and habits. Although a move may seem like a no-brainer, there are plenty of questions to consider before you start packing up your belongings or locking in a new home. If you haven’t already asked yourself the questions below, make sure you do after reading this article!
General Questions Before You Move
What’s my budget?
Moving costs a lot of money. Not only do you need to think about moving expenses, but you also need to think through logistics such as signing fees and rental agreements, closing costs, utilities and new services, parking options, commute and gas prices, and so on. If you already have a mortgage, student loans, car payments, credit card payments, and other debt, it’s crucial that you figure out your budget before considering a move. You should also consider what it costs to move across the country if your new home isn’t down the road or just a few cities over.
What climate am I looking for?
If you want to turn over a new leaf, understand that new cities come with weather changes. Are you living in an area that has minimal seasons, like Florida? Would you be willing to give up the beach for snow in the fall and winter? If you’re already living in the Northeast, would you be open to giving up seasons in exchange for sunshine and warm temperatures year-round? If your work commute will be on foot, the weather is a significant variable to consider when researching places to move.
What’s the real estate market like in the area I’m interested in?
Unfortunately, you can’t move before locking in a residence. Understanding if it’s a good time to move to your desired city is an integral part of decision-making. Additionally, if you’re a homeowner, is it possible to sell your house at a competitive price?
While you might want to get a head start, you shouldn’t rush things if it’ll end up causing more issues in the long run, bring you more stress, or, even worse, add to your debt.
What’s the job market like?
If your job isn’t fully remote, then a move most likely means a new career. A career is arguably the most important factor in a move because it’s going to fund the transition. Similarly, once you have a job finalized, you can then find a home or apartment close to your office. If you work from home, inform your company and ask for understanding as you relay any potential changes or concerns, such as taxes or the time difference.
What are the pros and cons of this move?
There’s so much to look forward to when you’re deciding to move, but are you considering it for the right reasons? Are you making an emotional decision that you might regret in a few months? How far will you be from family, friends, and loved ones? Are you seeking a new career, different opportunities, a fresh slate, a shorter commute, or something else? Oftentimes, understanding the school districts as well as ways to find the right school can also impact your decision on where to move. Writing out the pros and cons of the move can help you ultimately make the right decision.
When you do decide to move, understand your goals and what you’re trying to accomplish. That way, you have a clear vision of how you’ll achieve said goals once you’re fully settled in your new neighborhood.
Questions About the New Space
How much space will my new location have?
You can only own so many storage bins until you have to donate, sell, or give away certain items. If you’re moving to a place with more space, try not to splurge on new items until you’re fully settled and committed to your new budget. If you’re moving from a home to a condo or apartment, you’re most likely going to downsize. Understanding how to find the right apartment is crucial to making a decision about renting or buying.
Don’t just pack up everything you own and then figure it out once you’re there. Understand your new space, make some final decisions on what furniture and household items you’re bringing, and be conscious of what you need to unpack immediately versus what can wait once you move in.
Do I want to have a similar style in my new home, or do I want to switch it up?
Moving to a new place allows you to start fresh. Maybe you’ve been renting a unit that’s not truly your style, or you’ve owned your home for several years but haven’t had the budget to renovate. When moving, you can take a step back and visualize what you hope your new space will look like. From accent pieces and decor to the actual style of the home, a move is a perfect opportunity for a reset.
Do I need to find new utilities, cable, and internet services, or can I transfer them?
If you’re moving area codes, you’ll probably need to halt service at your old address and find new options at your new place. You should ask your real estate or leasing agent, as well as any friends who live in the city you’re considering, for suggestions. You can also find utilities through resources such as a utility finder.
Am I near public transportation if I need it?
If you’re thinking about living in an urban location, chances are you’ll need to locate the nearest public transportation. You might use these services for your daily commute or simply for convenience if you’re planning on shopping or attending a local sporting event. If you’re looking at a more rural destination, you most likely won’t be as concerned, but you should still learn if Uber or other ride-sharing services are readily available in your city for safety and as a backup transportation option.
Questions About the Logistics of Moving
Do I need to hire professional movers?
The thought of lugging boxes, suitcases, and furniture from one home to another is tiring. Think about elevators, stairs, car space, and the time and effort it takes to completely pack up and move your entire living space to another location. Professional movers are just that – experts at moving. They have the tools and resources on top of the strength and experience needed to make your move as smooth as possible.
If the cost is a concern, that’s understandable. We suggest getting several moving quotes or potentially renting your own truck. Maybe you can hire someone to help secure and wrap larger furniture pieces, but you can take the initiative on moving smaller items. Most movers charge by the room, the hour, and mileage from door to door, so the more you can save on the front end, the better you’ll be prepared for these costs. Another item many people don’t consider is whether or not you need a moving permit as well as what that even means.
Do I have friends available to help if the movers fall through?
While professional movers are certainly the easiest option, we understand that things happen. Sometimes, you don’t have time to wait around for a reschedule. If you have to be out of your home by a certain date, then you might not have a choice but to rely on friends and family to help you meet that deadline. While it’s highly unlikely, it’s still a good idea to have friends and family on standby for moving day as a last-ditch effort.
Do I have a real estate agent lined up to buy or sell if needed?
You can’t just pack up and leave (although that would take off an immense load of stress). You need to clear out your old space and sell your home if you’re a homeowner. If you’re a tenant, then you still need to understand your lease agreement to ensure you don’t incur any unwanted moving costs during your final days.
Real estate agents can be a resource to sell your current home, lock in a new abode, and locate safe and budget-friendly rental options. They can also answer any questions you might have about the local area, including those about doctors, transportation, and safe neighborhoods. They will be a valuable resource not only for your home, but also for your move in general.
Questions About Settling Into Your New Home
Will I know anyone in my new area?
While a fresh start is exhilarating, it can also leave you anxious about being alone in a new city. It’s better to play it safe by noting a few local resources. Whether they’re co-workers, extended family, friends of friends, or even people you connected with during your move or home search, it’s nice to have a network of locals to rely on for anything from restaurant suggestions to emergency contacts.
What kinds of local networking events or opportunities are available?
Even if you already know people in your new city, you’ll be able to look forward to finding ways to meet new friends and connections. You never know if your current friends will leave the area in a few months or if you’ll want to network for new job opportunities. Networking events aren’t only for securing a job, but they can also be helpful for dating or making friends in a new city.
Oftentimes, many of the people you meet at these events will work in a similar industry as you or share the same hobbies, both of which are great avenues to make new friendships.
What will my commute to work be like?
Whether you’re looking for a new job or staying in your current role, you should understand what your commute to work will be like. Will you be going with or against traffic? Is there ample parking at your office? Do you need to consider gas prices? Can you set up a carpool or use public transportation? If you’re moving to a new city, you don’t want to end up spending more time in your car than in your new home. Knowing and planning for your work commute are crucial to finding the right place to live.