Moving to a New State: Everything You Need To Know

Moving can be overwhelming as you have to pack your belongings, find a new job and home, and acquire a new driving license, among many other things. However, conducting extensive research about your soon-to-be new residence makes the process smoother. Ideally, you should be aware of the move a few months prior and start planning early. Realtor Duc Ong shares a few tips for making this transition smoother.

Visit Your Future State

Before moving to a new state, it’s essential to explore it. The best way to achieve that is to visit and spend some time exploring the place. Take walks and check the neighborhoods because they’ll determine your experience in the state. If you have children, look for local schools, visit them, and get reviews from the locals. Confirm the availability of parks, restaurants, and recreation centers, and use the information to select a comfortable location.

Check the Cost of Living

When planning to move, understand that your new location may have significantly different living costs compared to your current one. Research and budget for the latest costs related to rent or mortgage, groceries, insurance, and taxes because such costs vary state-wise. For example, if you are moving to Live Oak, TX and are married with children, for example, the average annual expenditure for rent or mortgage is $10,881, $12,529 for food, and $5,062 for utilities – just under $30,000 total. That same family would need about $48,000 annually for the same expenses in Honolulu, HI.

One cost that doesn’t have to change is your doctor’s fee. There has been a big shift towards online medicine, which means that you can keep your doctor and live anywhere you want. Find a good company and select from online doctors that meet your needs. They accept common health insurances, and you can often get a same day appointment.

Figure Out Your Job Situation

If you’re not moving for a job, you’ll have to secure employment. In such a case, start researching early through online platforms. If you have friends and family living in the state, reach out to them for referrals. Should you get to the moving date and haven’t secured a job, ensure you have enough savings to keep you afloat for a few months. 

Rather than getting a job, you might want to start your own business. If that’s the case, ensure you have a refined business idea for the start-up. Research the market and competitors, and create a workable business plan. The business plan should consist of a business description, a marketing plan, a products and services description, an operating plan, financial projections, and needs. Lastly, choose a structure for your business — a limited liability company, limited liability partnership (LLP), sole proprietorship, or corporation.

Seek Secure Housing

If you’re planning to buy a house, consider first renting a budget-friendly place to settle in, and take some time to choose a perfect home. Find a reputable real estate agent to show you some homes in your preferred neighborhoods. Additionally, buying a new home is often complex. The real estate agent can guide you through the entire process, including legalities and paperwork.

Find a Moving Company

Look for a competent and experienced moving company that handles interstate moves to make the process easy for you. The moving company safeguards your valuables until they get to the destination. Ensure the moving company has insurance to cover liabilities in case of any damage.

Parting Words

Moving to a new state can be exciting but exhausting because you have to pack your things, look for a house and a job, and adjust to the new life. If you’re moving to Kaka’ako, HI, consider contacting Duc Ong to help you identify and purchase your new home.

Guest blogger: Megan Cooper