Jonathan Carter

Relocation

"Nuts & Bolts"

Whether relocation results from a job change, or simply a lifestyle change, making a move is a huge undertaking.  But the more you know and the more you plan, the easier it will be.

Learning the lay of the land

Learn as much about your new destination (whether it be city, neighborhood or country) as possible ahead of your move.  Drive the neighborhood and surrounding area.  Walk the neighborhood, talk to its residents about how they like it.  Check with chambers of commerce.  Peruse the internet.

Research area bank possibilities, public transportation, medical care, child care resources, local shopping availabilities.  Remember to complete your "change of address" card, register to vote, and start your utilities.

Get information about schools.  Contact the local school district and the chamber of commerce; talk to residents in the area; get information from your realtor.

Selling your home / Buying your new one

• Be an educated seller and buyer.
  Do your research.
  Understand the housing market in your current area and in your new destination. Peruse the internet for area listings, talk to real estate brokers to see how homes are moving.
  Arm yourself with knowledge. Get the help of a professional broker. Assure that your home is adequately priced before putting it on the market. (Get a professional appraisal.) Learn about availability and affordability from an area analysis of your new location that your realtor can provide.
   

• Prepare your house for showing.
  Make all necessary repairs before putting your house up for sale.  Have it professionally cleaned if possible, including carpets and drapes.  Spruce up anything that will add to its curb appeal as well as interior charm.  A fresh coat of paint can do wonders!
   

• Protect yourself with the best home inspection possible.
  As both a seller and a buyer.  Your realtor or mortgage broker can provide recommendations.  The inspector should belong to the American Society of Home Inspectors; be bonded, licensed and insured; provide references; be forthright about fees and services (are termite inspections extra?).
   

• Mortgage Pre-Qualification Letter.
  Even though it doesn't provide final loan approval, experts suggest getting mortgage pre-qualification because it gives you a realistic price guideline and shows sellers that you are a qualified buyer. It might also be a good idea to get a copy of your credit report and clear up any inaccurate information before pre-qualification.
   

• Keep tabs on your emotions.
  You don't want to sell your house for too little, or buy another house too quickly. Don't spend the next 30 years feeling like you made a mistake.

It's your move!

Moving your entire household safely to your new home is a major concern.  Depending on the quantity of belongings and the distance, you may want to hire a moving company.  Doing it yourself will save some money, but the time factor, their professional experience, and insurance on your contents may make more sense to hire the job done.

Find a mover you can trust.  Get references.  Talk to the Better Business Bureau, your realtor, friends.  Comparison shop.  Get quotes and services.

Just be sure to allow adequate and comfortable time for you and your family to organize, have a garage sale if necessary, and pack.

Getting to know you!

Enjoy your new life in your new home and community!  Get to know what kind of events and places are available to explore and enjoy.

Talk to your Chamber of Commerce.  You'll find maps, restaurant information, and a visitor's guide to points of interest.

Use your local newspaper as a resource for job possibilities, travel tips, entertainment and more.

Send us an email, or give us a call.  We have been doing business around here for a long time, and have handled lots of real estate transactions and refinances.  This has put us in touch with some of the areas best real estate agents, insurance agents, inspectors, title companies, builders, movers, and everything in between.  We'd be happy to introduce you to some other business people we have come to know and trust.