Moving can be an exciting adventure. However, it could also be a stressful time if things go wrong. This report explains the seven most common mistakes when people relocate. When you plan ahead, you’ll avoid these pitfalls and ensure your move is handled smoothly.
- Lack of information. Contact the chamber of commerce, tourism department, municipality, or library in your new community. At the same time, compare salaries, cost of living, taxes and housing prices. Take advantage of all information you can find on your new community, including school and crime statistics.
- Home not ready for showing. Before you sell your home, complete repairs. Often, it’s the little things, like chipped paint, worn caulking and sticky doors that potential buyers notice. Have your home cleaned, including carpets. Have a Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) completed by one or two realtors to ensure a competitive price.
- Not being pre-approved. Sellers are usually eager to negotiate with someone who has immediate buying power.
- Not planning for temporary housing between destinations. You may need to set up temporary housing arrangements until the closing of your new home. This could take from a few days to a few months. If you need interim housing for a few days, perhaps staying in a hotel is the simplest solution. For housing longer than a month, you may want to consider an apartment with a short-term lease.
- Not completing a professional home inspection. This applies for both the home you’re selling and the one you’re buying, although who pays for the inspection (buyer or seller) is negotiable in each separate contract.
- Not using local, licensed professionals. Every area is different. Understanding the communities that make up your destination city, a realtor can find you a home that matches your needs. You’ll save time and energy by having a professional do the work for you.
- Not reading your employer’s relocation policies. Read your employer’s relocation policies carefully, for the amount of reimbursement. Keep good records and copies of your receipts, as moving expenses are deductible under certain conditions.