What to Consider When you Move to Another State is crucial if you want to achieve the smoothest transition possible.
Whether you move for a new job opportunity, a lower cost of living, or access to the beach, there’s a lot to consider before you relocate to another state. It’s important to understand how your lifestyle may change when you move. You’ll also need to have a timeline and plan for selling your house. We’ll cover all your options, so you know what to expect.
Once you’re well-informed and prepared for your move, you can enjoy exploring your new locale stress-free.
Why are you relocating?
Understanding your “why” will impact where, when, and how you relocate. You might be moving to be closer to family members or take on a new professional position. If you live in an area of a high cost of living, you may be looking to relocate somewhere your money will stretch further. Or you may just want to retire on the coast, so you can dip your feet in the ocean each morning.
There are other logistical reasons to move as well. You might need to downsize for retirement, and may prefer to do so near a city with warmer weather. You might be moving for health reasons, so that you can get access to better care. Once you’ve defined “why” you’re relocating, the other parts will fall into place.
Where are you moving?
No matter what attracts you to a new state, you’ll want to consider how each aspect of your life will be impacted by the move. Consider the following features of your new location before you make any plans to sell your current home.
Weather
Consider the climate of your new state compared to what you’re used to. For example, if you’re retired, you might be concerned about cold climates for health reasons. It’s also crucial to know natural disasters that occur in different areas. While Florida is a beach destination, hurricanes are a reality of life in the Sunshine State. Do your research and know what you’re getting yourself into before committing to a big move.
Cost of living
People living in higher priced areas may opt to move to a place where they can stretch their money further. A cheaper house could free up more money for other activities or stretch retirement further.
Housing is a major expense, but it’s not the only cost to consider. You’ll also want to look into things like healthcare prices, childcare costs, transportation, and food. Use a cost of living calculator to compare your current city to your new one. If you’re facing higher costs, you’ll need to reevaluate your budget and implement changes in your spending to cope.
Tax implications
Another factor related to the cost of living is your tax situation. Research the tax burden you’ll have in your new state. You might get a break if you move to a state that doesn’t collect income tax, or you could get slammed with higher property taxes. For example Texas has notoriously high property taxes, yet it also has no state income tax. You’ll need to weigh things like this because it can greatly impact your budgeting. Consider consulting with a CPA as you evaluate the tax repercussions of a move.
Cultural environment
When making a big change, knowing that you’re a cultural fit could play a major role in your ultimate decision. The truth of the matter is that people tend to gravitate towards their interests. It would be prudent to come up with a list of must haves in your new locale.
Consider the demographics and cultural features of your new city by asking questions such as:
- Will you find friends in a similar age range with compatible interests?
- Will most residents of your new city have the same political affiliation that you do?
Will the area be diverse or have the ethnic cuisine that you enjoy?
If you’re a purveyor of the arts, a foodie, or a music snob, are you going to find museums, restaurants, and venues that you’ll want to visit in your new state?
Will there be enough outdoor activities available nearby to meet your needs?
Job market
Whether you’re retired, have a job offer, or are a stay-at-home parent, the job market matters. When employers move to an area, it signals that the city is going to grow. People go where there are jobs and in turn, this generates added benefits for its residents. Property values could go up, it could lead to more restaurants and supermarkets to meet demand, and it creates more job opportunities.
The inverse is also true. An area with few opportunities or one known for a single industry may have more risk in an economic downturn. A major employer leaving trickles down to all facets of life.
The bottom line? Research the local job market before you make a move.
Schools
Any parent with children still attending schools will want to conduct some due diligence into the school districts in a new city. Not all areas are created equal in this regard and this will be highly neighborhood dependent. Look into different neighborhoods within a city or metropolitan area and get to know the schools before moving.
When do you want to move?
Once you’ve decided where you want to move, create a timeline based on when you’d like to be established in your new location. Determine what you’ll need to get everything done in time. Break up the work into small, daily projects to avoid getting overwhelmed. Depending on how you choose to sell your house, your move could happen quickly, or it could take months to make the transition.
The good news is, there’s an alternative option for homeowners who are looking to relocate quickly. Homeinc helps homeowners sell their homes as-is. We can give you a professional property analysis, send you a cash-offer contract, and close on your preferred timetable — which can be as short as ten days. Contact us today through the form on our home page or by calling/texting 888-850- 2636 for an instant cash offer.
