Have you been thinking about moving to a new state? Go for it! If you’re looking for a fresh start, packing up and moving out of state is a great way to leave your old life behind. Plus, moving is a great chance to find better work, pursue higher education, cut your cost of living, or enjoy a more accommodating climate. Whatever your reason for moving, start planning your new adventure today! Here are some tips to ensure your big move goes smoothly.
Get Help with House Hunting
Long-distance house hunting can be challenging, especially if the area is unfamiliar to you. To ensure you make the right decision, get help from a local real estate professional. Your realtor can help you learn about different neighborhoods in your new city so you can find the best new home for you and your family. Remember to ask your realtor about the location of the home and how it aligns with your priorities. For example, if you have kids, make sure to find a home near a good school district!
Move Your Business
Are you planning on starting a business in your new state? Whether you already own a business or you’re new to entrepreneurship, make sure you do your research. Different states have different requirements. Find out what it takes to relocate or start a business in your new state. This research is a great way to kick off your business planning, so keep the momentum going by researching your market and target audience while you’re at it. Write up what you learn into a business plan!
Adjust Your Household Budget
Research the cost of living in your new state to make sure you will still be able to afford the lifestyle you want. For example, SoFi reports that the cost of living in California averages $42,757 annually per resident. You can expect to spend about $3,538 per person on groceries, $6,361 on healthcare, and $8,535 on housing and utilities every year. If you have a partner or a family, your household bills will be even higher.
Thankfully, there are several things you can do to keep your spending under control when moving somewhere with a high cost of living. First, live in an area of town that you can afford rather than searching in the trendiest or fanciest neighborhoods. Get comfortable cooking most of your meals to cut down on your food spending. Take advantage of free events. And if you move to a big city, you may be able to sell your car and get around using affordable public transit!
Find a New Doctor
Moving can be a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding a new doctor. One option that is increasingly popular among transplants is the convenience of finding a doctor online. There are several advantages to this approach. First, online doctors are often more flexible than traditional physicians when it comes to scheduling appointments. This can be a lifesaver for busy families who are trying to juggle work, school, and other obligations. Second, online doctors usually have a broader range of expertise than their brick-and-mortar counterparts. This means that you are more likely to find a doctor who specializes in the type of care that you need. Finally, many online doctors offer lower rates than their offline counterparts.
Make a Plan to Settle In
It can take months to really feel comfortable in a new city. If you want to get settled in a little more quickly, plan ahead. Before moving, research the area and locate grocery stores, pharmacies, public transit stops, and gas stations near your new home. Extra Space Storage also suggests downloading apps that are used in the area, like bike-sharing apps or local event apps.
If you’re looking for ways to meet people, explore your existing networks to find people who can connect you with new contacts in your new area. Try to attend social functions, say “yes” to invitations, and join local groups. Even just getting out of the house to take a walk or sit in a local coffee shop can offer opportunities to meet your neighbors.
Moving to a new state can be very stressful. Try to make this transition easier on yourself by planning ahead. Get in touch with a realtor who knows the area, make a plan to move your business, be prepared for new living costs, find a new doctor, and learn a few tried-and-true ways to make new friends in an unfamiliar city. You’ll feel at home in no time!
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