Are you considering moving for the first time? No, we don’t count moving to Uni as a relocation, although it may technically pass as one. But we are talking about something more uprooting- like packing up and moving with your family. For example, relocating to a totally new city or even country.
While a relocation may sound exciting, the decision is usually a big deal, so it ought to be taken with a lot of thought. Consider the new neighborhood, the change in lifestyle, your work, children’s school, fitting in and more. It is important to have everything in order to make the transition a smooth one.
Here are 7 things to help you get better understanding of your new location.
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Housing and other necessities
One of the most important things you want consider first is your new home. It has to be perfect, because it wouldn’t do to make such a huge decision only to regret your living arrangements. Depending on your reason for moving, you could buy a home close to work, or settle in a more tranquil countryside if you are retired.
Your new home may require customisation to your specification. Say, you move to Austin, a firm like Zbranek & Holt could refurbish your home. You also want to check things like health care, proximity to stores, commute distance, the education system and more.
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Work opportunities
If you are moving for work, one of the things you need to consider is the nature of the job market. Are there opportunities that suit your particular set of skills? Is the job market expanding? If you already have work sorted, you should do some research on your employer and the work in relation to that environment .
Are you self-employed or in business? Find out if there are opportunities for your business at the new location. Whether you will need to tailor your offering to suit the different lifestyle, or if the current strategy will be just as fine.
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Good and not-so-good neighbourhoods
Where you live is just as important as the house itself. You may have a comfortable King-fit edifice, but if it is set in an infamous area, you will find it unfulfilling. Choose a home surrounded by friendly neighbors you can relate with- a place where your children will enjoy growing up in. Security is important as well; you should be able to take an evening run without looking over your shoulder.
What are the stores like? Do you cook your own food? If not, you’ll want to check proximity to restaurants in the area. Think long term too; if you choose to move in the future, will people be willing to buy a home in that neighborhood?
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Your lifestyle
When relocating to a new city, it is necessary to analyze the quality of life in the area. How does it align with your personal habits? If you are heavily vested in sports, you’ll want a place with a vigorous sporting lifestyle. For instance, an avid athlete will prefer a city renowned for its sporting events.
Are you a nightcrawler? Then a sleepy little town may not be your ideal location. Your lifestyle will be impacted by the city you relocate to, so pick carefully.
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Cost of living
The cost of living is also an important determinant of where you should move to. A city that matches your income base is ideal, otherwise you’ll be straining your cash flow. Work out how much you are likely to earn and the expenses in the area; fuel costs, children’s education, groceries and so on. Do a monthly budget against your income.
This concept may not be easy to grasp at once. If you are moving for business reasons, and are getting a salary increase, you might not be affected. However, if you are relocating with the same financial capacity, it will be unwise to go somewhere you will spend more. Especially if it is going to eat into your savings.
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What is the climate like?
The average weather condition of an area is another important thing to consider. This is because while other factors may be adjustable, weather conditions are usually fixed. Some health issues are aggravated by certain climates. Are you prone to allergies in arid conditions? If you do not do well in severe cold, then you’ll want a place with a balanced climate.
There is lots of information online about the climate of different parts of the world . Do some research and speak with your health practitioner about what’s best for you.
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Do you have a backup plan?
Not every relocation will pan out as you want. But while it can be managed, some are just too extreme to bear. So, if it doesn’t work out as you expect, ensure you have a backup plan to buffer the situation. Perhaps, you could move to somewhere more accommodating? Ensure everything is in order to make your contingency plan an easy one.
Good luck with your move.
