Relocating to a new home for a job can be an enjoyable and exciting experience. However, it can be a little overwhelming in the beginning. Here are seven tips to make your relocation go smoothly.
1. Stay Organized
Most of the stress comes from having so many tasks to accomplish at once. Make lists of tasks related to all aspects of the move, including leaving your old home, starting your new job, and moving into your new home.
2. Book a Mover
Booking a mover as early as possible will help ensure you can get your preferred moving date. Obtain pricing information from at least three insured, reputable residential movers and book one as soon as possible. Ideally, you should book a mover two months ahead; one month early is the minimum.
3. Research the New Location and Job
Stress also comes from uncertainty. You can alleviate many anxieties by finding out as much as possible about your location and job.
If you are relocating to a different job with the same company, your human resources department can help you. The human resource staff can provide information about the new work location and nearby restaurants, childcare, gyms, and banks. They will also have some information to acquaint you with the community and housing options.
If you are locating to work with a new company, human resources may still be able to provide some information to help you get started. You can also research the new city on the Internet through online forums, government websites, and tourism sites. Use your network and contact friends or acquaintances who have moved there to gain a fuller picture.
4. Check What’s Available to You
Employers and prospective employers will sometimes offer relocation assistance. For example, they might help you sell your home, pay for moving services, pay for a trip to look for housing, or help your spouse find a job. Ask about what assistance the company might offer.
5. Note the Cost of Living
Check the cost of living in your new location to see how far your new salary will go. If the cost of living is higher, wages are also sometimes higher. However, a higher salary isn’t guaranteed.
Develop a budget based on the cost of living information. If you discover that you’ll need to downsize your housing, consider what you can sell or discard before moving.
6. Find Housing
Your company may pay for temporary housing and storage for a short time until you get settled. If not, you’ll want to find a place to live immediately. If you’ve made several trips and worked with a real estate agent in the new location, you may be able to buy a home right away. On the other hand, if you’re unfamiliar with the new city, you may be better off renting for a year to see where you’d like to live.
7. Build a Social Support Network
Use your friends to make new acquaintances. Having a few friends right after you move will be essential to keep you grounded. You can also make friends by joining clubs and gyms or attending a local worship service.
Relocating for Your Job
A household move is chaotic, but when you are also starting a new job as part of the moving process, that adds a lot of stress. We can help limit your stress and help with your move. Contact us today for a free quote.