A new job opportunity can be an exciting, and often life-changing experience. But it can mean more than just changing your job title. For many, it means relocating to a new town or even state, which can be a big undertaking, whether you’re single and moving alone, or if you have a spouse, children, and a few pets.
Before deciding whether or not you are ready to relocate, or if it’s worth it, do a little research about the following topics to make sure that you’ll be happy in your new position.
Is This a Permanent or Temporary Relocation?
If it’s just a temporary move you don’t need to worry about buying a new home or whether the long-term economy will affect you. Temporary moves can happen for all kinds of reasons, whether to set up a new office or to complete a contract with a client.
Permanent moves mean that you will be living in the new location for the foreseeable future, with no pre-determined end date. These types of moves require much more planning and consideration, since they often mean uprooting your current situation entirely.
Family Considerations
If you have children, you’ll want to look into neighborhoods, schools, and the education system in general. Crime rates, travel times, and amenities are also things that could affect how you feel about moving to a new city.
Your spouse should take a look at what job opportunities are available, and whether or not they will be able to easily find work.
Some relocating families choose to live apart temporarily until the timing is better, such as when their children are on summer break, or the spouse who is living away has decided that they want to keep their new job. This gives you the time to sell your current home, do in-person research on the new location, and to decide if it’s the right place for you or your family.
Financial Considerations
A big move can cost a lot of money, no matter where you are moving to. Sometimes, such as with a new job, your relocation expenses will be covered, but if you’re moving for other reasons, you’ll likely have to save up before you go on your adventure.
You should do some research in the following areas to find out if relocating is financially wise for you:
- The cost of buying or renting in your area, and how easy it is to sell if you decide to leave.
- Is the local economy strong, stable, or dwindling, and how will that affect you?
- If this opportunity doesn’t work for you, are there plenty of other jobs in your field of expertise?
- How much is it going to cost you to move? Will you have any savings left?
- What is your financial back-up plan?
- Living expenses and how much your budget will change.
Your financial standing will make a big impact on not only your ability to move, but also what your living situation will be like in your new city or town. You may have to adjust your activities to accommodate higher living expenses, or you may find that you can put aside savings each month.
Personal Preferences
Once you figure out if it’s the right decision for your family, and your finances, it’s time to get down to the details. You might as well make the most of your new opportunity, so ask yourself these questions before you start looking for a place to live:
- Do I want to live in the city, or outside of town?
- What amenities are necessary for me?
- How am I going to commute?
- Am I going to downsize my possessions before and buy new later, or am I bringing everything with me?
- Am I going to fly or drive? Do I need movers?
- Do I have pets that I need to transport as well?
- What is the climate like where I am going?
If you plan to make your new location your permanent home, try to make the best of it by choosing where you are going to live, and what you would like to have close by before you leave. Having a good idea of what you are looking for will make the process easier and less stressful.
Job Specifics
If you are moving because of a new job, make sure that there’s a solid offer on the table, with a contract in place. Moving to a new location, whether on your own or with your family, is a serious decision. It’s best to be as sure as possible about your position and your future before deciding to relocate.
Talk to your new employer about:
- Moving expenses
- Job security
- Contract length
- Your responsibilities
The Decision to Relocate
Ultimately, the decision to relocate is a personal one that is based on many different factors. When moving to another city or state, it’s a good idea to consult a realtor in that area, as they are knowledgeable about things such as the economy, neighborhoods, and amenities that may be important to you.
You need to make the decision to move on your own, but you don’t need to go through the process by yourself. Employ professionals where you can to make it easier and less stressful on you and your family, and plan ahead to ensure that you have covered all of your bases.
Would you relocate for work? Have you relocated for other reasons? Let us know in the comments!
