Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

Tag: relocating

  • How to Research Homes When Relocating

    Relocation offers exciting opportunities for a new lifestyle. But, as the saying goes, location, location, location! Knowing how to research homes effectively saves time and sets you up for success elsewhere. Discover the best ways to find your dream home in another city or state.

    Map It Out

    Get to know the layout of the land before you get there. Research locations on Google Maps to determine everything from the climate to the proximity to necessary places, such as shopping and medical facilities. Also, visit WalkScore.com to find out the walkability of local businesses. Once you know the overall neighborhood better, you can research homes in your preferred areas near schools, parks, or shopping.

    Take a Tour

    A personal tour is the most effective way to learn more about neighborhoods. Walking around the local areas during the day and night tells you a lot about the place – from garbage removal to where everyone likes to unwind. Also, talk to the locals to get their opinions and visit sites such as Nextdoor.com for more info. If you cannot make the trip, try joining local Facebook groups and YouTube to watch videos. Real estate agents often provide video tours so you can shop around from your armchair. 

    Review Property Values and Cost of Living

    Before buying a home, check out the area’s property values and cost of living. Sites such as AreaVibes.com provide recent statistics about the market and how much it costs to live in the neighborhood. Then, ensure the area you choose has homes that fit your budget. Also, getting a mortgage pre-approval lets you know your purchasing power.

    Consider the Crime Rate

    Real estate agents cannot discuss crime and neighborhood statistics under the Fair Housing Act. This means buyers must research themselves to ensure they move to safe areas. Visiting sites such as NeighborhoodScout.com can help determine the crime level in the new location.

    Find a Reputable Real Estate Agent

    The best way to research homes when relocating is to find a reputable real estate agent with access to the Multiple Listing Service. Buyers can have agents represent their interests when relocating, as the listing agent typically represents the sellers. Ask your agent to send you listings that meet your criteria, so you can start surfing for homes from your smartphone or laptop.

    Think About Renting First

    Think about renting before you make a final move to a new location. Services such as AirBnb.com provide temporary rentals so you can stay in the area for a week or two. Also, your agent can help you find a rental until you buy a home in your new neighborhood.

    Look Into the Schools

    Buyers with children should find the ratings of the local school districts to find homes in the best areas. The GreatSchools.org website provides ratings and reviews from locals, so buyers get a feel for the schooling in the neighborhood.

    Consider Professional Opportunities

    Some people relocate because of their employment, and others need to secure work in a new location—research job opportunities on sites such as LinkedIn.com and Indeed.com to find out what exists in the area. In addition, licensed professionals may need to obtain licensing if moving to another state, so find out the requirements to be ready to work when you get there. Also, find out where jobs in your profession are to find a home nearby.

    Check Out the Chamber of Commerce

    The local chamber of commerce location or website provides a wealth of information about the neighborhood. Research local events, establishments, recreational facilities, and businesses to discover what the place offers.

    Read the Local News and Traffic Reports

    One of the best ways to research homes when relocating is to read the local news and traffic reports. Consider practicing your commute or studying the routes to find typical traffic patterns. The news reports indicate neighborhoods where issues may exist, or housing values are fluctuating. Also, follow social media accounts to get the latest updates from residents to see what’s happening in the new location. 

    Knowing how to research homes makes relocating faster and easier. Work with a licensed real estate agent to find the best homes in your preferred neighborhoods. With modern technology, you may find your dream house from the comfort of your current one!

  • Homebuying 101: Goal Setting and Budgeting

    A home is often the most significant asset people own in a lifetime. The homebuying process brings together people from every background and budget. Homeownership builds wealth when you make the right decisions to avoid financial loss. Discover how goal setting and budgeting are huge in selecting the ideal dream property to suit your unique needs.

    Define Your Goals

    The first step to future success is defining your goals and memorializing them. Whether you write on a notepad or maintain a Google document, goal setting means seeing what you need to do to make it happen. Next, answer meaningful questions to establish goals, such as do you want the pride of homeownership? Are you looking to build generational wealth?

    Then consider your current job status and whether you intend to stay with the company long-term. For example, military homebuyers who move frequently have different needs than those employed at an office in the city. With home equity at a steady rise, buying is house makes sense for those who can afford it. Changing jobs or getting a flexible side gig, such as DoorDash, can help renters become buyers.

    What Does Your Budget Look Like Today?

    Now that you know why you want home ownership, it’s time to determine how much house you can afford. A mortgage pre-approval gives homebuyers financial guidelines and purchasing power. Generally, the mortgage payment should be 25 percent or less of gross income, including property taxes, mortgage insurance, and homeowner’s insurance. Plus, many homeowners need a down payment, varying from zero to twenty percent, based on the type of loan. For example, some first-time home buyers may qualify for a three percent down loan, while veterans could require a zero percent down payment. Also, credit score plays a role in the down payment necessary to get a mortgage loan.

    Find out your credit scores a year before qualifying for a mortgage to see where you stand with Equifax, TransUnion, and Experion – the three major credit bureaus. Your credit score should be at least 500 to consider applying for a loan. The better your credit score, the lower your interest rate and down payment. In addition, consider a service such as Credit Karma or Lexington Law to address past debt and dispute inconsistencies on your credit report. Plus, these services give you ongoing updates to help you track and improve your score.

    Get Rid of Debt

    Homeownership brings unexpected expenses, such as repairs and renovations. When you own the house, you need to fix everything – there’s no landlord to call! As a result, it is crucial to eliminate debt to afford a home. Also, mortgage lenders prefer candidates with a low debt-to-income ratio, offering them the best rates and terms.

    Start paying down debt ahead to ensure you’re ready to prequalify for a mortgage. Consider working with debt relief or consolidation services if you’re struggling to eliminate past bills. Another option is consulting with an accountant or financial advisor to find the proper steps to resolve debt and move forward financially.

    Save Money Everywhere

    When you’re ready to buy a house, it’s time to save money on every aspect of your life. At this point, every dollar matters – once you close escrow, you can enjoy the little luxuries again! Consider areas where you can save, such as:

    • Make breakfast and lunch at home, rather than buying out – treat yourself once a week to avoid deprivation lapses!
    • Eliminate extra services, such as cable television or a landline, and take advantage of smart devices to remain connected and informed
    • Cut coupons, find discount days at local retailers, join savings clubs, download apps, and search for discount codes online to save money everywhere and anywhere you go.
    • Dine out less frequently and start eating down the food in your freezer so you’re ready to move when the time comes.
    • Eliminate services you don’t use, such as movie sites, gaming costs, and gym memberships that could be costing more than you think – apps such as Truebill.com help
    • Look for essential items like paper towels and soap at dollar stores to save a few dollars.
    • Clean out your closets to prepare for a move, and start wearing some of your favorite old clothes rather than buying new ones – you can shop again after you own a house!

    Increase Your Income

    Overall gross income is never more critical than before qualifying for a mortgage. The higher your gross income, the more you can spend on a house. However, you want stable employment, so you can cover the mortgage once you move in. Avoid going over your head, as you can lose the asset you worked so hard to get.

    One way to increase your income is to ask your employer for a raise or promotion. Another is changing jobs, but you must show employment for at least one year before qualifying for most mortgages. Also, side gigs are an excellent way to increase your cash flow to pay down debt and save for a down payment. Sites such as Indeed.com post jobs and provide resume tools, while apps like Wonolo offer various short-term paid gigs in your area.

    Stay Focused on the Prize

    Working hard, saving money, and improving your credit score becomes tiring. After a long day at work, skipping your side gig and going out with friends is tempting – spending money you should save! Instead, stay focused on the prize to remain motivated and avoid temptation.

    Consider creating a vision board to help you stay on track. Visualizing your fantastic future as a homeowner encourages your best efforts to make it happen. For example, post photos of the types of homes you prefer to keep you moving toward the ultimate prize – owning a home.

    Give Yourself a Break

    While ongoing focus and motivation are critical to success, you also need to give yourself a break sometimes. There are many free and affordable ways to have a good time that won’t take away from your down payment savings fund. For example, the local library, community centers, and houses of worship often have low-cost entertainment to help you unwind after a long day.

    Also, you are only human and likely to make a few missteps along the way. So instead of faulting yourself for the double latte yesterday morning, forgive yourself and make coffee in a to-go cup for the rest of the week.

    Be Accountable

    Accountability is essential to determine where your money goes every day, week, month, and year. Keeping a ledger helps you track expenses. Also, services such as Mint.com can help you stay on top of your spending to make necessary adjustments.

    If you’re saving with a partner, work together to eliminate debt, increase income, and save money. Often teamwork is dream work because you encourage each other to do your best, so you can own a home soon and start building equity.

    What Do You Really Need in a Home?

    Once you feel comfortable about your goals and budget, it’s time to consider the house and neighborhood where you want to live. Often compromise is inevitable, as most buyers are unlikely to get everything they want. Also, this is the time to differentiate between necessities and luxuries.

    For example, necessities might be a three-bedroom home to accommodate a growing family. On the other hand, an inground swimming pool would be fun but would raise the house’s price and require ongoing maintenance. Make sure you can afford to keep up with luxury features in a home and stay focused on what is necessary to live comfortably.

    Work With a Dream Team for Success

    Finally, it takes a village to buy a house, and you should have the ultimate team for success. Include professionals such as a real estate agent, insurance broker, mortgage loan specialist, accountant, attorney, inspector, handyman, and cleaning crew.

    Often a respected real estate agent can refer you to a team that already works well together for the best possible outcomes. Make sure you feel comfortable with all your team members and have ongoing communication to ensure a seamless transition into your new home.

    Home buying is one of the most exciting and stressful times in your life. As you make one of the most significant decisions and investments of a lifetime, focusing on goal setting and budgeting helps you stay on track – and exceed your housing expectations!

  • Seven Ways to Eliminate Stress During a Move

    Relocating is an exciting and busy time, filled with important things to remember. However, even the best-managed homes require attention to detail during a relocation. Discover seven ways to eliminate stress during a move to enjoy your new place.

    Embrace the Changes

    Trying to keep everything as regular and routine as possible during a move is tempting. However, change is inevitable when you leave a familiar place to live in a new one. Embracing the changes helps make moving easier. For example, list the things you want to do when you relocate. Thinking about the fun stuff ahead helps you stay motivated during the tiring moving days. Also, create a small area where you can unwind and relax at the end of the day. Even if the rest of the house is in chaos, you’ll have a sanctuary to escape the stress for a while.

    Remember Self Care

    Often self-care is forgotten for weeks or months during a hectic relocation because people feel guilty taking time out when there’s so much to accomplish. However, all work and no downtime is a sure recipe for stress. Take time to exercise, which releases stress-relieving endorphins and helps you stay limber for the lifting ahead. If you can’t fit exercise into the day, take a few minutes for meditation, stretching, and deep breathing. Allow yourself an hour or two to appreciate your favorite leisure activities, such as reading, fishing, or painting. Taking a break also gives you more energy when you return to your moving responsibilities. Finally, always remember to get enough sleep every night to be rested and ready for action.

    It Takes a Village

    Relocation requires the assistance of several professionals to get through the process successfully. Always ask for help every step of the way, so you can continue to move forward. Also, have a power relocation team on-call to assist you, including an attorney, real estate agent, accountant, cleaning service, handyperson, and moving company. If you rent a moving truck, recruit your friends and family to help you – there’s always more work than you anticipate! Also, keep plenty of water and snacks handy to recharge as everyone works.

    Keep Important Documents Handy and Safe

    Relocating requires documentation to close old accounts and open new ones. Your identification and other crucial paperwork will likely be necessary countless times during relocation. Keep essential documents handy and safe so you have instant access as needed. Consider renting a safety deposit box or creating a quiet corner at home to remain organized throughout the changes.

    Make Sure Time is On Your Side

    When it comes to relocating, keeping track of time helps eliminate stress. Also, most tasks require more time than you might think before getting started. Plus, you need to account for interruptions, struggles, and other unexpected happenings. Always set aside extra time to complete moving projects so you don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed. If the work takes less time, you’ll gain a few much-needed moments to rejuvenate.

    Plan to Say Goodbye

    Saying goodbye is often difficult, but planning will eliminate stress. Make plans to see friends, family, and neighbors before your moving date. Trying to see everyone in a day or two becomes impossible, especially with countless moving tasks to tackle. Plus, making plans reduces the number of people who stop by unexpectedly and causes a break in your moving routine.

    Be Ready to Say Hello

    Moving into a new home is exciting but can also be stressful. Try to visit your community before relocating to familiarize yourself with the surroundings. Use sites such as Google Maps, Yelp, and Facebook social groups to get a feel for the area and find places you want to check out. While moving in is also hectic, slow down to introduce yourself and say hello to your new neighbors. A smile and friendly face go a long way as you assimilate into your new location.

    Relocating can be the start of a wonderful new life in another location. Knowing how to eliminate stress makes the transition easier and gives you enough energy to enjoy your new home!

  • Ten Important Steps Before Relocating

    Getting ready to relocate and move is both exciting and challenging. With all the details, being well-prepared is crucial for success. Discover the ten important steps before relocating to ensure a smoother transition.

    1. Do the Research

    Are you moving out of town or to another state? Either way, research to get a feel for the location. Request local brochures and maps from the chamber of commerce to learn more about the various neighborhoods. Researching helps you prepare for a new lifestyle in another area.

    Search online and local townships to familiarize yourself with demographics, schools, crime, and real estate. Also, find out the proximity to places such as shopping, medical facilities, and recreation. House hunters need to learn this information firsthand as real estate agents cannot discuss these factors.

    1. Establish a Moving Budget

    How much will it cost to move? Moving is typically more expensive the further you go. First, consider the cost of travel, packing and moving essential items, garbage removal, storage, and other moving expenses. Then, decide how much you can spend on the move to make decisions such as hiring a moving company versus doing it yourself in a rental truck. 

    Plus, consider other costs after moving. For example, will expenses such as auto insurance cost more? Figure these expenses into your new household budget. Also, will you need to pay taxes in two places? Some questions may require assistance from a financial professional. Finally, always try to put away extra money for unexpected expenses.

    1. Map Out the Relocation Site

    Do you know the place you’re moving to? If possible, visit the relocation site to map out the area. Then, visit local venues to feel the neighborhood and decide where you would be comfortable. Also, many home buyers want to live near places of employment to minimize their commute.

    Consider whether you want to be near shopping and schools or natural features, such as parks and lakes. Google Maps can help you figure out the layout, especially if you can’t take a trip to the place. In addition, understanding the layout of the land enables you to search for properties in preferred areas.

    1. Get Organized

    Do you have everything you need together? Getting organized is critical during the hectic days when you relocate and move. Establish a moving file that stays with you through the journey. Include necessary paperwork, such as deeds and recent tax returns. Consider storing personal documents in a safe deposit box, such as birth certificates and marriage licenses. Remember to take them with you when moving.

    Then clean out your home and storage unit to streamline the moving process. Most people have more unnecessary items around than they think. If this is the case, get a dumpster to quickly and efficiently dispose of junk. Plus, your house shows better when it is tidy and uncluttered. 

    1. Assemble Your Professional Team

    Are you ready for some help relocating? A successful move requires assistance from a professional team. First, find your preferred mortgage broker, real estate agent, accountant, lawyer, moving company, and handyman. Verify their credentials and discuss the terms to ensure everything goes smoothly. Also, choose professionals who communicate effectively and make you feel at ease.

    Then ask the critical questions about relocating so you are well-prepared. For example, a mortgage pre-approval helps you know how much you can spend on a new house. A dedicated team provides valuable information to help you make the best decisions.

    1. Find a New Home

    Are you prepared to relocate and move? Once everything is in order, it’s time to find your new home! Enlist the assistance of your professional team to find the right house. Also, your real estate agent can offer resources to help you search online to find potential properties. Finally, remember to include house hunting time in your busy schedule.

    If your employer is paying for relocation, get the financials in order. Are you unable to travel to see the homes? Fortunately, video tours and 3D visuals help house hunters shop remotely. Ask your agent about live tours on social media so that you can ask questions along the way. Once you find the right house, work with your team to prepare the paperwork and review the terms to ensure everything goes smoothly. 

    1. Plan Out Packing

    What do you need to be comfortable in your new house? Many people relocating decide to buy new furniture and essentials. If so, make sure to have accurate measurements for everything to fit correctly in the rooms. However, you will still need to move clothing, photos, and other personal items.

    Start by packing a suitcase of necessities for each household member if the move is delayed or items are lost. Everyone will be more comfortable with a change of clothes and underwear, pajamas, and toiletries. Are you hiring a mover or doing it yourself? Either way, get the essential supplies and mark everything so unpacking is easier.

    1. Monitor Memberships and Licenses

    Are you a professional, drive a car, or have pets? Relocating out of state usually means getting new licenses. Find out the requirements to get to work, drive, and have the dogs when you move. Plus, keep in mind items such as a library card that you’ll need in a new neighborhood.

    Other considerations are club memberships and utilities. If you belong to a community organization, you may need to join another chapter or club when you move. Additionally, you may need utilities in two locations to move smoothly. Simplify the process using a free moving concierge service, such as Moved.com.

    1. Pick the Moving Date

    Are the contracts signed and a closing date set? Now it’s time to choose the moving date! 

    Keep in mind factors such as work and school schedules, weather, and availability of movers to pick a date. Also, moving during the holidays or weekends often means paying higher service rates. 

    Ideally, start packing about a month before the moving date. Give yourself plenty of time sorting, organizing, ordering moving supplies, and packing. Take advantage of services such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill that pick up donations for free, such as furniture or bedding in good condition.

    1. Be Ready for Your New Neighborhood

    Are you ready for your new neighborhood? From joining a new gym to establishing a primary care physician, start preparing for the move. Cancel old memberships and create new ones. Also, ask for essential records to register for school and new medical providers. For example, many schools request evidence of immunization.

    Also, are you driving to the new house? If not, you may need to schedule a car transfer service. Remember to forward your mail, register to vote, and let everyone know you are relocating. Finally, consider hiring a cleaning service and handyman so you can move in with peace of mind. And make sure you have keys to your new house – and you leave keys for the new owners of your old one!

    Are you concerned about deciding to relocate and move? That’s okay because everyone feels that way. However, following these ten important steps before relocating helps ensure a smooth move!

  • Moving out-of-state? Relocation Tips to Help Your Move

    Moving out of state can be a monumental effort given the logistics involved in moving all the contents of your home. Despite the obvious stress involved in moving out-of-state, this can be an exciting experience as it is the beginning of a new chapter in your life. Think of it as an adventure. Of course, even the best adventure requires some preparation, as does a move. To ensure that you have a smooth out of state move, consider the following tips:

    Moving Company – When it comes to moving your belongings, there is more than one option. You can choose a full service moving company, you can choose a hybrid moving company where you select the level of service you need, you can do it yourself. Regardless of which option you choose, be sure to do your research on the moving company thoroughly in advance. Some companies have an established, national reputation; however, they are likely to be the more expensive option. Other moving companies may do just as good a job at lower rates. Your budget should definitely be factored in when making your final decision, but it is also important to work with someone who is both experienced and reliable. Check with the Better Business Bureau and/or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to make sure the moving company is licensed, insured, and accredited.

    Protecting Valuables – Although many moving companies offer guarantees and “in-house” insurance coverage, there are other ways in which you can protect your valuables as well. One way is to simply purchase a separate moving insurance policy. Your homeowner’s or renter’s protection policy may not offer moving protection or offer you the option to add moving insurance, so it is a good idea to check and see what coverage you have – you might need to purchase additional insurance for your move. Regardless of what type of insurance protection you choose, you should also take a few additional steps. Start by making a thorough list of your belongings that notes the item, the approximate value, and which room it belongs in. You can even go one step further by taking photographs of all rooms and close-ups of particularly valuable items.

    Transporting Vehicles – Again, you have more than one option. Driving the vehicle yourself is, of course, an option; however, not a very attractive one if you are moving across the country. If you chose to go the “do-it-yourself” route, then you can also rent a trailer to haul your vehicle along with your household belongings. This can add to the expense of the move and will not be practical if you own more than one vehicle. The easiest, though typically the more expensive option, is to use an auto transport company. The more flexible you can be with time, the lower your price will likely be. While schedules and procedures vary among companies, plan on at least 5-7 days for your vehicle to make it to your new location. As with moving companies, be sure to check the licensing and accreditation of a potential auto transport company.

    Relocation Services – if you simply do not have the time, or the inclination, to coordinate and oversee your interstate move, a relocation service may be your best bet. Relocation services essentially do everything for you from helping you find housing to arranging a mover. Often, large companies offer relocation services to employees who have been transferred to a new office. There are also numerous private relocation services that will handle all the details of your move for you for a fee.
    These tips should help you limit the stress involved in your out-of-state move so that you can focus more on the adventure of moving to a new place!