Yes, I’d like to relocate somewhere else. What if your heart isn’t sure where it wants to go?
Whether you’ve just landed a new job in a new city or you’ve decided to relocate for personal reasons, moving may be a difficult experience. Buying or renting a home is a major investment, and you want to be certain that the neighbourhood will work for you in the near future. Here are the best tips to consider before moving to a new place. Also, do not forget to check this relocation guide that will help you to
prepare yourself before moving.
Ask yourself these crucial questions before you take the leap into the unknown.
Are the numbers correct?
Unfortunately, no matter how much you love a location, you must first determine whether or not you can actually afford to buy a home there. Before you fall in love, talk to a mortgage broker to find out just how much you can pay. This information can then be retrieved from the Land Registry’s site by searching the House Price Index for a certain locality.
It’s also a good idea to check the website of your local council to see how much council tax you’ll be responsible for each month.
Secondly, what is the crime rate like?
People don’t want to relocate to a place where they and their loved ones feel unsafe. Even a brief drive around the neighbourhood may not provide you with all the information you require. If you don’t know anyone in the region, talking to others who do can be an excellent place to start. To get a sense of what it’s like to live there, talk to folks who have actually lived there.
Analyze the price of a decent standard of living
In order to develop a budget that you can live within your new city, do some research on things like housing, transportation, healthcare, and food. Starting with the Bankrate calculator, which provides the typical rates for everything from housing to recreational activities and home necessities, you can get an idea of the cost of living. However, you should also conduct your own research, such as looking up local real estate listings, gas rates, and even restaurant menus, on the Internet…
Is there a wide range of local attractions?
Depending on your situation, you may or may not need local facilities. A large supermarket is ideal for people who don’t own their own vehicle, for example. An easy-to-access doctor’s office in your neighbourhood is also an option if you have young children.
The library, dentist, post office, and pharmacy should all be included on your list of must-haves in your new neighbourhood. It’s a good idea to have a checklist to ensure that you don’t overlook anything, even if you know what you need.
Make networks, both social and professional
In your new city, take a look around and see who you know and who you don’t know. To make new friends or contacts in your business or social life, tap into your alumni network and previous or current job relationships. To get the ball rolling, a quick Facebook post asking for introductions or setting up a coffee or lunch date with friends of friends is a good place to start.
Search available means of transportation
Make a decision on how you’ll get around, such as whether you’ll drive or take public transportation. If you intend to retain a car in the city, research your alternatives for parking and storage. Identify the areas with the best public transportation options if you must rely on this mode of transportation. Don’t get stranded in a place where you can only commute to work or school by bus once a day by doing some research on the most reliable bus and train routes in the area.
Job opportunities
Job options in the new city should be researched prior to moving if you don’t already have one lined up. Find out what kind of occupations are typically available in the city, whether full or part-time, and whether they’re a good match for your needs. Consider making a list of area businesses and their locations, then applying if you locate an opportunity that suits your needs prior to moving. It would also be beneficial if you sought out homes in the same area as your preferred job location.
