Whether you are choosing to relocate or your employer has made that choice for you, there are several things you need to know before relocating. Each of these things has an impact on how your life will be going forward and how they will impact your spouse and children, if applicable. Most people might investigate the area or city to which they are relocating just out of curiosity, but for those relocating for work, this research should be classified as a necessity.
For one, you should see what part of the city you are relocating to. Is it a nice part of town, or is it so rundown that you should consider moving to another part of that city before you even start relocating? Thanks to internet maps, satellite views, and 360-degree tours, you can see exactly where your new home or apartment is located. For those that have not been part of the relocation choice or process, these technology tools will help them (and you) get a really good look at your new home before you get there.
Two, research the local schools. How do the district schools rate? Which one is closest to where you will be living? Is there any private school or charter school options? These questions are all very important if you are relocating with children. You want the best possible education and the safest schools for your children when you are a parent.
Three, find out what the crime rates in the city are like. What was the most prolific crime last year, and does it affect your new neighborhood? For example, were there a lot of break-ins near your future home, or is your home located in a very crime-quiet neighborhood? Knowing what to expect in terms of crime rates and the types of crimes happening in the city and suburbs gives you an idea of what to expect when you finally move there.
Four, locate the nearest hospitals and health clinics. So many people relocate and fail to do this within the first few months of moving to a new city and then don’t know where to go when they are really sick or have a medical emergency. Googling a city plus hospitals or health clinics helps you know where, how close, and the types of medical services provided by the hospitals and clinics within a few minutes of your new home.
Five, and finally, compare and contrast rent and mortgage rates where you are headed. Find out what the high and low rental costs are for similar apartments. Then find out what the least and most purchase prices are for single-family homes throughout the city. This usually can be done by contacting one or more real estate agencies and asking for this data. Some of the other data and information mentioned above may also be available through a real estate agency if you ask for it. Having rental and mortgage rates for the city you are relocating to helps you select a new home when you arrive there, and you either are staying somewhere temporarily, or you get to choose your new home before you arrive.