Relocating can be stressful because several things can go wrong, some of which may delay or even stop your moving plans. According to a survey from a relocation resource, 38 percent of respondents believe moving can be more stressful than a breakup.

To help relieve stress, you need to have a plan and carefully consider various factors before choosing a new home. This short guide outlines these factors to help you have a stress-free relocation.

1. Climate

For most people, weather and climate are crucial factors in deciding where to move. For example, after the pandemic, people cooped up in their homes moved to sunnier places, like Florida. By 2022, it became the nation’s fastest-growing state.

Meanwhile, others are looking to trade the sight of beaches for blankets of snow. Those who want to see snow in the winter can move to New York, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, or Alaska.

2. Building Type

The right building type for you will depend on various factors, such as the number of occupants, lifestyle, and sometimes work.

If you will live alone in your next home, you can choose a single-occupant house. You can rent a single-family home if you have the money. Otherwise, you can live in apartments or low-rise condominiums, which can be more affordable.

Relocating with children will be more challenging since you have more factors to consider. You will need enough space where your kids can play and learn safely. A house with a backyard can be perfect, especially if you are planning to get pets.

A new steel barndominium can also be the perfect plan for your home if you want to live in a unique, durable space with your family. Barndos are now becoming popular among homebuyers as they offer versatility and function while being low maintenance, economical, and energy efficient.

3. Distance to Friends and Family

If you are single, you can easily pick up your life and move somewhere else. However, if you are a part of a close-knit family or group of friends, you may find it more difficult to leave.

If you have children, relocating may disrupt their studies since they must transfer schools. Before choosing a new home, you should assess the local schools to ensure they can be a perfect fit for your kids.

You should also look at childcare options, especially if you and your partner work. If you used to live close to a family who can take care of your kid, you will miss this convenience when you relocate.

4. Affordability and Expenses

When relocating, you should consider not only house and property prices but also local tax rates. These fees can be easily overlooked but significantly add to your yearly expenses. Other financial elements to consider are cost of living expenses such as utilities, local activities, groceries, and transportation.

City and state taxes can also significantly increase the cost of living in your new place. When calculating your finances, you should also factor in local sales tax, income tax, tax credits, and exemptions. Visit the Tax Foundation website to determine the state-local tax burden you must pay.

Aside from these expenses, you also need to have a budget for relocation. Today, countless businesses offer relocation packages if they require employees to move for work. Typically, these packages cover the cost of professional movers. Some companies even cover the cost of shipping and storing crucial items if needed.

Some employers even pay for their employees’ house-hunting trips. If you get this opportunity, take full advantage and get a feel of your new town. Try to visit at different times of the day to see if you can fit in with no problem.

5. Job Prospects

Another crucial aspect to consider is getting a job in your new location. If you moved to work, you do not have to worry about this issue. However, if you are ever planning to move to a new company anytime in the future, factoring in job prospects in the area can be wise.

Before you move, you should ask yourself the following questions:

– Would you be able to transfer to a similar role in your location?
– Would you need to return to your old place to find suitable work?
– Would you be able to commute to your new job?

Remember that your decision must depend on how likely you are to get a job you like where you plan to live. If you’re working in a specialised role and opportunities in your field are rare, you might want to relocate.

Another thing to consider is to try something new career-wise and expand your expertise. This way, even if you cannot find a vacant post for work, you can still advance your career.

If you are moving with your partner, you should also consider their options for work. To ensure that both of you will be employed in your new place, try to answer the following questions:

– What is the job market like in your new town?
– Does the city have a high or low employment rate?
– What would be your chances of finding a new position in your new place?

These are only some of the most crucial factors to consider before you move. With these in mind, you can create a foolproof relocation plan that will help make the process easier.