Hard truth. Moving is never easy. I’ve done it all – from local moves to cross-country relocations From packing to unpacking the last box, I have found moving to be an exhausting, expensive and stressful experience every time.
Now, as a real estate agent, I work with individuals and families moving from all over the country. While I have to admit that the process is still inherently exhausting and stressful, I do all that I can to help!
What if you are in a similar situation, trying to determine how to get started with a move across the miles? Here are some practical tips on how to achieve a smooth transactional experience amid the boxes and packing tape.
Plan Your Moving & Budget
First, as much as possible, try to determine your budget for both the move and future housing costs. There can be wide ranges as far as rental costs so it is important to do some research about your future area. It can be overwhelming to do a housing search without specific criteria or neighborhoods.
Do your research up front to try and narrow your search as far as target neighborhoods and key criteria. Join local online groups and ask questions - you may make a connection with a future neighbor! You can research a lot of information about neighborhoods and apartment communities online.
Second, consider working with a local realtor. Some real estate agents will provide services to individuals looking for a long-term rental. As a real estate agent myself, I am always happy to provide information for someone doing a long-distance move. I even do virtual tours so that individuals can see the property themselves.
Then, get and stay organized as much as possible. For example, in my experience, some people create a digital file of key documents that will be necessary during the process of renting a new home. For example, be sure to have digital copies of your passport, drivers license, checking account information, credit reports and any other documentation that may be necessary for a rental application. (For furry family members, also make sure that you have digital copies of all current vaccinations and rabies shots.) It’s also a good idea to have a moving binder with hard copies of key documents like birth certificates, passports and other key documents.
Declutter, Pack, and Plan Your Timeline
Take a hard look around your current home. If you can let go of any current items - especially big ones - then you may save both money and time as far as moving personal possessions. Start this process early because it can take a while to get rid of big, heavy items. In addition, start packing and labeling your items early. Choose carefully which items are the most special or fragile and will need extra consideration during the moving process.
As far as timeline, try to figure out your ideal timeline to move into your next home. Perhaps you will need to factor into any dates where you will be traveling to the location of your next home. Try to allow some cushion in case there are delays. You may also want to have a place to sleep on your first night in the new town so make any reservations early.
As an Airbnb host, I have noticed that many more people are staying at short-term rental properties if they are moving from out-of-state. It is a great way to stay in a clean, furnished property while you are still in the process of moving, cleaning and preparing your past or future home.
Ideally, it would be great to reduce costs and avoid these type of “in between” stays, there are so many unexpected situations that can evolve – so, unless you can crash with friends or family, a back up housing plan is key around moving dates.
What are some other ways to reduce stress during these types of moves?
- As a real estate agent, I have worked with many buyers who now use moving “pods” rather than trucks so that they can schedule pick up and delivery of their belongings on desired dates.
- Reach out via social media to ask if anyone has connections in your next area - local connections can be great and offer unexpected opportunities!
- Ask for photos but also see if a local realtor, friend or family member can tour the property for you.
- Age, location, price and condition of the home are all key factors. The quality and condition of the property - especially appliance and heating/cooling systems as well as overall maintenance can make a big difference. Create a list of questions to review about each property under consideration.
- Hire a trustworthy, well-reviewed moving company or order a moving “pod.” If you want to do it all yourself, be sure to reserve a moving truck well in advance and review the rules and costs for “one way” moves. Compare quotes!
- Plan ahead - map out the routes for your trip and take into consideration any restrictions on large vehicles along the route.
- Tell the postal service, and any former employers (if you need tax documentation) that you’re moving! Tax considerations can be really different between states. Some states have no income tax but higher property taxes, while others might have additional local taxes that will be new to you. If you’re moving mid-year, you may need to file partial-year tax returns in both states, which can complicate your tax situation. Consult with a tax professional familiar with both your old and new states to understand the implications.
- Contact utility and service providers in your old and new location.
Understand Local Laws & Protections
Check out any laws and regulations that might impact your housing choices and rights. For example, under federal law, all landlords and property owners must disclose the risks of lead paint for any property built before 1978. Locally, there may be other laws or rules that apply to different properties or locations.
For example, look at local maps to determine whether there may be any environmental considerations like flooding risks. If there are, then you may want to consider renters’ insurance that could cover these types of events. Renters insurance is always a good idea to protect your own personal belongings – and additional protections may be a small additional item for your monthly budget that may make sense depending upon the local area.
Enjoy the Adventure
Amid all the checklists and hard work, enjoy the adventure! It is exciting to learn about a new area and find new destinations to explore. Along the way, you may discover new types of housing and neighborhoods – as well as local restaurants and entertainment.
