Moving to a new state can be a daunting task. Before you pack up your life and go, consider these seven things to streamline the process and reduce your moving stress.
1. Set a budget.
Before you begin the task of moving, consider the cost of living. Research your potential income in your new state as well as the cost of housing, food, insurance, gas, and utilities.
2. Secure a job.
If you’re not relocating with your current job, getting new employment lined up should be one of your top priorities. Be sure to check out the local job postings in your field and pursue every lead possible to get your new career lined up. Securing your new employment before you move can help you set your budget for your new housing and other moving expenses.
3. Find a new home.
If at all possible, visit your new state ahead of time to do some house searching. This way, you can explore different neighborhoods to find the one that will be the right fit for you. You’ll need to consider the cost of housing, the local schools, the proximity to local restaurants and stores, your daily commute, and how fast-paced or laid back your new neighborhood is.
4. Hire a moving company or do it yourself.
If you have the budget to hire a mover, spend some time researching Seattle long distance moving companies to determine which will suit your needs. If hiring a company isn’t a financially viable option, price out moving trucks. Remember to consider what size you’ll need and the other fees often associated with them like gas, miles, and insurance.
5. Know the legal details.
Keep in mind that the taxes in your new state may be different. Take a look into state income taxes as well as any property taxes and sales taxes you may be responsible for as a new resident. Think through how these changes will affect your take-home pay.
6. Check transportation.
Think about how easily accessible public transit will be. If you already own a vehicle, you probably won’t need it anymore, depending on how walkable your new neighborhood is. If the area is more sprawled out and you will need to keep or buy a vehicle, remember to account for the cost of getting it registered and insured in your new state.
7. Pack and purge.
Moving is an excellent opportunity to go through your belongings and decide if you still need items or not. When it’s an out of state move, it’s especially important to asses your belongings: Does it make more sense to donate them and buy new ones when you arrive? Does your furniture fit in your new place? Is your tv outdated and ready to be replaced? Sort through your belongings and make sure what you’re bringing is still necessary.
Moving to a new state may seem intimidating, but doing your research ahead of time can help to make the process smoother.