Relocating to a new city to start a new chapter in your career and in your life is an exciting time, but, one tempered with anxiety and stress. While you certainly welcome the opportunity to advance your career, there’s a bit of apprehension because there’s no guarantee the move will work out in the long term. The reason some relocation moves don’t work out in the long run isn’t because of the career advancement or lateral, it’s because all the excitement is too much to overcome for a real, heartfelt examination.
How to Make Relocation Easier
One of the most powerful and useful exercises you can engage is to ask the right questions so you aren’t caught off-guard by some common mistakes. Among the most common relocation mistakes is not knowing just how far your (new) salary will go in your new city. Be sure to checkout the cost of living and if you’re salary is increasing, know precisely what tax implications there will be on your new income. Also, taxes don’t just apply to income, but also, to real estate, vehicles, and more. One great thing about relocating to Orlando, and the state of Florida, is there is no state income tax and property taxes are relatively low.
Ted Stimpson, president and CEO of MyMove.com, agrees. ‘As with any move, relocating for a job can be a complicated and stressful process. But the good news is that you’ve been recognized as a valuable asset to your new company or office, and employers are typically more than willing to help make your transition a smooth one.’ Plan ahead for your move, and utilize any relocation packages offered by your employer, he says. ‘And if things start to get stressful, remember that the reason for your move is a positive and exciting one.’” —Forbes.com
You should also be aware of your commute distance, time, and options. Get in-the-know about local schools, shopping, dining, entertainment, and various day-to-day aspects. In addition to all of this, if you are selling your home and relocating, be sure to get a pre-listing inspection, have it staged and ready-to-show, and, allow yourself enough time to make a comfortable transition.
Ways to Make Relocation Easier
Moving isn’t something that comes with great enthusiasm, other than a new opportunity, there’s the logistics and labor which make it downright unpleasant. It takes a lot of preparation and even after the last box is taken from the truck into the home, there’s the enormous task of unpacking, organizing, and settling-in to a new home. Fortunately, there are some ways to make relocation easier, using the following suggestions:
- Book a moving service as soon as possible. Depending on your company’s policy, you might have to hire a moving company and be reimbursed, or, corporate pays for the relocation. Regardless, you ought to have a moving service booked as soon as you know you’re going to make the move so you’ll have enough time to settle on the details.
- Get organized and lighten your load. A few weeks before you are going to relocate, start organizing and prioritizing your possessions. This is a great time to get rid of all the junk you’ve accumulated over the years and save on your moving costs.
- Check out your new location in person. While this might not be convenient, it’s necessary so you can get a personal feel for you new location. You should be looking at different neighborhoods and visiting them at various times so you know the quirks (traffic, noise, et cetera).
- Make a list of things you can do yourself. A great way to save money and protect what’s most valuable to you is to do transport those things yourself.
Another thing to do early on is to get in touch with an experienced real estate professional in your new location so you can begin to explore your options and get some helpful insight.