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Moving out of state can be a tiresome and daunting prospect if you are not well prepared. Leaving your current life and starting a whole new one is significant, and you need to completely consider all angles to the shifting process.
Research indicates that 27.1 million Americans (8.4%) moved in 2021 and that 20% of these people moved across states. These trends have been triggered by various political, economic, and ecological concerns, such as changes in state laws, the COVID-19 pandemic, and access to better healthcare. Regardless of what motivates you to change states, there are several considerations that you must make.
The following guide covers 9 things to consider when moving out of state.
9 Things to Consider When Moving Out of State
1. Housing Availability
The first consideration should be where you will live once you move into the new state. You need to get a glimpse of the housing market to understand how much you will need to spend on rent, mortgage, or buying a new house.
The best way to undertake this activity is to visit housing listing websites and talk to experienced real estate agents within the target area. The aim is to find an affordable but high-quality place to live in.
2. Job Prospects in the New State
You should also consider where you are going to work next. Are there better job opportunities that you can leverage? What is the average pay? Do you need to change careers? These are some of the questions you should ask yourself to ensure you have a stable income once you move.
You need to feel confident about finding a secure career. The best way to approach this is to start the job search process and market your skills online before leaving.
3. Tax Law Changes
Before moving, make it a priority to pay income taxes for the two states. The establishment of residency in your new destination requires that you file returns before moving there. You can also be expected to file taxes in your old state. Another consideration is paying property taxes for any properties you have purchased in the new state.
You can ease the process by hiring a tax accountant to do the job for you since tax rates vary from state to state.
4. Moving Services
The moving process cannot be completed without contracting a moving company to haul things for you. First, you must create a moving budget and stick to it. Moving out of state won’t be cheap. The average cost for contracting a moving company is about $4,900 for every 1,000 miles.
If you want to undertake a DIY move, consider paying for a truck rental, container, moving supplies, and other associated expenses. Make sure you only spend on necessary things and have some extra money reserved for unexpected emergencies.
5. Cultural Differences
As you move from one place to another, you find that people have different cultural practices at the local level. Therefore, you might find it hard to adapt to the values and habits practiced in the new state. Potential areas to start researching are personal space, forms of address, timeliness, and tipping.
You should prioritize learning what traditions and practices set the new state apart from the old one. You do not want to be in a situation where you get overwhelmed by varying cultural identities.
6. Potential Neighborhoods to Live In
You should also identify your target neighborhood before you leave. If you cannot visit your new destination beforehand, you can look for information online.
So, what things should you look out for? Use a navigation app to take visual walkthroughs or reach out to existing residents and ask them your questions. You should target information regarding crime, demographics, forecasts, schools, and current trends.
7. Commute Facilities
The types of commutes available to your destination can determine your quality of life. You can research online to see the options that are available for you. Another tip is to start practicing as soon as possible. Take that bike ride, car ride, public transit, or walk to familiarize yourself with the hassles. You should also do this within the target routine.
As you take these mock commutes, be on the lookout for restaurants, grocery stores, and coffee shops. You can also check the school zones and areas that are usually crowded on public transportation networks. The aim is to avoid any surprises once you start your new life.
8. Move-Out Cleaning
If you do not wish to clean the old house yourself, you should plan for a move-out cleaning company to come and do the job for you. You should also make all the necessary repairs before starting the journey, especially if you have been living in a rental. Most landlords want their tenants to repaint the walls and fill holes before vacating their premises. Ensure you check with the landlord regarding what to clean or fix.
9. Healthcare
Finally, you should consider the healthcare choices you will make in your new home. Start by researching the specialty doctors and general physicians before you move. For example, search for local dentists, gastroenterologists, or allergists. Check which businesses have the best reviews, and go for these.
You should also refill all the required prescriptions for your kids, parents, spouse, or pets. Although changing doctors or pharmacists when you move to a new state can be challenging, it is better to be prepared than wait weeks to schedule appointments.
Bottom Line
Weidel Real Estate understands that moving states can become complicated, especially if it is your first time. You have to consider a lot of dynamics that may or may not be within your control. Do not go through it alone. Speak to us about finding a new home, and let us get you the best deal, whether buying or selling. We specialize in all types of homes, from country houses to island retreats and city apartments.
As a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, we are privileged to have real estate professionals who can help you find your ideal home. Our company can help you find a new home anywhere within the continent or around the globe.
Click here to connect with us or give us a call at 1-800-288-SOLD.
