By Kris Vogt
It?s a new year and for many people the change of the calendar represents a chance at a new beginning. For some, this involves making a few big changes in life ? like moving to a new home.
Whether upgrading to a larger property in a neighboring town or relocating to a new city or state altogether, moving can be a complicated process. Beyond finding a home, there are many factors to consider ? employment opportunities, the general feel of the community and, of course, the physical aspects of a move, such as packing and changing addresses.
Relocating is a difficult process, but it?s not impossible. Here are a few simple steps to help make your move a little easier.
? Begin the search online. Finding a home is probably the biggest decision one will make when it comes to relocating. But, thanks to the advancement of the Internet, searching for properties has become more accessible than ever. Utilize free online tools to begin your search. Statewide Websites like CaliforniaMoves.com and national sites like coldwellbanker.com are good places to begin searching for homes for sale in the city or cities where you?re considering moving.
? Conduct due diligence. When relocating to an unfamiliar place it?s best to get an advance feel for the lifestyle and personality of the new town. Contact the local municipality or library, or log on to the city guide?s Website. Also consider Websites you may not have originally thought of when starting your search, like YouTube.com. Many real estate agents now have their own YouTube channels where they post video tours of their new listings. Company Websites, like Coldwell Banker On Location, offer behind-the-scenes looks at towns and neighborhoods, tips and timely news on real estate topics.
? Line up an ?all-star? team of professionals. Now that you?ve done your homework and have an idea of where you?ll be moving, it?s time to identify a team of experienced professionals. This will play a key role in making the relocation process as simple and seamless as possible. Start by interviewing and selecting a real estate agent who understands what you?re looking for and is familiar with the area in which you are looking to move. Your local agent might also assist in referring an agent in your new community. A real estate professional will arrange showings when travel is possible and keep track of the properties viewed. He/she should also be able to help indentify suitable lawyers, mortgage lenders, home inspectors, movers and others who play a role in the process.
? Safeguard valued items and documents. It?s a good idea to keep valuable possessions, such as jewelry, antiques, and important papers like birth certificates, closing papers and new job contacts, with you throughout the move. Speak with your agent about homeowner?s insurance and whether to consider additional insurance from the mover. Also, find out what paperwork (receipts, appraisals, and photos) you might need to file a claim in case of loss.
? Free yourself of excess. The last thing you want to do is spend time, money and effort moving items you don?t actually need in your new home. Take time to clean out the garage, closets or spare rooms and decide which items you?ll be taking and which should be donated or thrown away. Many local charity organizations now pick up donations at your home and appointments may be scheduled online.
Remember, relocating to a new area can be an emotional experience. Expect some stress and find productive ways to work it out. Consider participating in community activities, visiting a new gym, taking a walking tour of your town, or getting together with new neighbors. Stay in regular contact with friends and family back home ? having a support network to talk to will help make the transition a bit easier on everyone. The easier your move is, the sooner you?ll be able to relax and enjoy your new home.
Kris Vogt, president and chief operating officer of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Sacramento/Tahoe, provides the above tips. A Sacramento area real estate veteran with nearly 20 years of experience, Vogt?oversees a talented team of 700 real estate professionals in 14 offices serving the Sacramento/Tahoe area. For more information contact Coldwell Banker at 916-684-8180.
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Source: http://www.mtdemocrat.com/business-real-estate/new-year-new-home-simple-steps-for-relocating/
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