Moving to a new state is a huge undertaking. There are preparations for the move itself, finding work (or even starting your own business), living costs in your new city, including your family in the process, and the mission to find the right house. This article from A and H Insurance will help you slide into the process and make it as seamless as possible.
Moving Preparations
Megan’s Moving suggests beginning by going through closets and drawers to see what you can get rid of: clothes and books to donate, old cookbooks, and extra hangers, to name a few. When it comes to memorabilia, that you haven’t had the heart to get rid of, take photos of it and then toss it. The more items you can part with, the fewer you’ll have to pack.
Make a list of the order you’ll pack your rooms. Start with those that aren’t used much, like guest bedrooms. In children’s bedrooms and playrooms, sort through toys that your kids actually play with; you’ve likely held on to some that they’ve outgrown. Move.org offers this excellent checklist that can help you establish exactly what needs to be done and when.
Finding or Creating Work
Unless your company is already transferring you to a new state, you’ll need to find work. If you like your job, ask your supervisor about potential opportunities in the state you’re moving to. Reach out to your network, check alumni services from your alma mater, or contact a recruiter to help you get on your way. Online job listings are another great tool to use.
If you’re looking for a change, try starting your own business. First, you need to confirm that your idea is something that is needed and wanted. Then, you need to develop a business plan, which should include a company description, financial needs and projections, marketing and sales plans, market analysis, and business structure and management. Having a well-structured business plan is the key to success.
Living Costs and Expenses
Living expenses are another factor to consider. These are usually measured in cost indexes; a comparison of the average costs to the national average of 100. For Connecticut, which has a 121.6 cost index, the statistics are as follows:
- Housing — 134.6
- Food — 106.4
- Transportation — 111.1
- Utilities — 132.4
- Miscellaneous (e.g. health costs) — 114.1
If you’re considering the rental life, you’ll want to dig a little to see what monthly rent prices are in your new destination location. If Reno will be your new locale, you have plenty of rental homes to pick from – more than 100, in fact. Keep in mind that certain cities and/or neighborhoods will have varying costs, so talk to a real estate agent about what areas fit your budget.
Including Your Family
You’re going to need all the help you can get, including from the kids. Letting the entire family be a part of it will take some stress off your plate and make them feel more involved. It’s important to get them excited. Bring them to showings of potential houses if possible and ask their opinion.
Packing is another great way to get older kids involved. Create a game out of it, like racing to finish a box. Crank up the music while you work and take dance breaks to shake it off. The possibilities for making packing more fun are endless, so use your imagination!
Finding the Right House
Finding the right house requires considerations like your potential mortgage, homeowner’s association details, and the number of offers on the house. These details can provide valuable insight into what kind of house you’re looking at.
The layout of your home is one of the most important factors. There are all kinds of floor plans to explore: multi-level, Conventional Ranch, open floor plan, and Cape Cod to name a few. If you plan to renovate, start building ideas in your mind for the houses you especially like. And when it comes time to purchase a home, you’ll want to get the right homeowners insurance. Reach out to A and H Insurance for optimal coverage. We primarily serve clients in AZ, CA, and NV, but are licensed in over 20 states.
The adventure of moving to another state may feel overwhelming at times, so take it step by step. Moving preparations, finding work or creating your own business, comparing living costs, including the entire family in the move, and finding the right home will all seem like a distant memory once you’re settled in.
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