How to Plan a Low-Stress Relocation
By Guest BloggerFebruary 22, 2022
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Relocating can be stressful. Here's how you can make it a smooth transition for everyone.
Relocating
for a new job is a massive undertaking, one that needs to be planned in detail.
Putting together checklists, creating timelines, and making sure everyone in
the family is on the same page can smooth the process and reduce move-related
stressors for everyone.
Create
a Plan
When
you get a job offer and agree to move, you’ve likely got a million “to do”
lists in your head. Start by creating a timetable of what needs to happen and
when - working backward from your start date. Everyone’s timeline will be
different, but the key things to consider include when you need to secure a
place to live when you need to be finished packing when you need movers (or a
DIY truck or pod) to arrive, and when you need to have your belongings
delivered, or arrive at your new destination. From there you can build in the
details associated with each part of the move.
Find
a Place to Live
If
you already know the new city and are ready to buy a home, that’s great -
connect with a realtor who can help. If you’re still learning about various
neighborhoods and the quality
of local school systems, consider a rental. This will give you time to get
settled, get the lay of the land, and make longer-term decisions once you’re
more comfortable. You’ll want to factor in access to amenities and the commute
distance from your new job. You can narrow your online search using filters
that allow you to sort by price, size, and amenities, and even take 3D tours.
For example, start by searching, “Seattle
rental.”
Plan
Your Move
If
you’re one of the lucky few whose new employer pays for their move, great! Connect
with human resources and make arrangements. If not, you’ll want to get
in-person written estimates from several moving companies. Make sure you
understand how insurance works and what type of supplies and services they
offer. If you have delicate, high-value, or sentimental items, you may want to
pack those things yourself and potentially even transport them in your personal
vehicle to protect against damage.
Pack
in Organized Fashion
If
you’re like most people, you probably have more stuff than you realize.
According to Extra Space Storage, moving is a great time to donate or sell
excess household items - especially things
that are large, heavy, and expensive to move. Once you know what you want to
take, label each box with colored stickers per room, and per family member. The
last things to pack include personal devices, medications, clothing, and
personal items - all of which will ideally be kept with you during the move.
Plan
for Emotions
Moving
an entire family to a new location can be emotional. According to Bright
Horizons, your kids may be sad about leaving friends or
have anxiety about starting at a new school. You, too, may be experiencing some
anxiety around your new job. Be open and honest with one another, talk about
the benefits of your new hometown, and explore it online. Plan for kids to stay
connected to friends and family via video chat and visits. Communicate that
while it’s a big change, change brings new opportunities for you all to
embrace.
Making
a big move can be stressful, so take good care of yourself and your family in
the process. Eat well, stay organized, and make sure pets are secured and cared for during the move. Take
regular breaks and explore points of interest if there’s time. Keep a positive
attitude and look at the relocation as a family adventure!
United Country Real Estate is the largest seller of lifestyle, land, and country properties. Headquartered in Kansas City, MO, United Country is the leading, fully integrated network of conventional and auction real estate professionals in the nation. We can be your advocate when it comes to selling your existing home or finding the perfect new home, no matter where you’re going! Reach out by phone or email for more information.
About the author:
Natalie Jones enjoys writing about home buying and hopes to inspire homeowners of all stages to enjoy the perks of homeownership. She created homeownerbliss.info to help soon-to-be homeowners in making their decision during house-hunting. Natalie also loves spending time with her husband working on DIY projects for their home.