Thinking of Moving to a New City? Here's What You Need to Know
So exciting, you've accepted a new position and you're moving to a new city! Or maybe you just decided you needed a change of scenery or lifestyle. Whatever the reason for relocating the biggest decision by far is deciding where to live in your new city of choice. A lot of companies only offer five days to find a new home in a new city you don't know, complete the inspections, arrange financing and all the other details that come with purchasing a home. How can you be best prepared?
DO YOUR HOMEWORK, RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!
1. Write down a list of what you like in a home and the budget you will be working in. Go on line and do some research using realtor.ca. This site will guarantee you can take your time browsing homes without soliciting calls from realtors. Start with a radius out from where you will be working and see what is available within your budget. Continue to radiate out until you see homes for sale in your budget and an area you can research. Coming from a market with higher price points to one of a lower price point is great for getting more house!
2. Great, now you have found some homes that have the features you like and fit your budget. Now let's compare what important factors need to be considered: Do you have children? What ages are they? What schools are needed? What hobbies outside of work and school does your family enjoy? Write down a list of the five most important 'must haves'
3. Research realtors, they are not all created equal. It is as important when you are purchasing as it is when you are selling to interview realtors prior to committing the largest purchase you make in a new city! Good questions to ask the realtor (a) How long have you been in real estate? (b) How long have you lived in the area? (c) Is your family dynamics close the those of the realtor (very important if you have school age children) (c) Request a buyer's guide to review prior to making a decision (d) technology allows us to meet face to face between cities across the country so have a Facetime or Zoom appointment with the agent (e) do they have a service guarantee?
4. Research blogs about the city, events, celebrations. Halifax has a great site Halifax - Narcity
Halifax is Canada's Best Kept Real Estate Secret!
Brenda K (Kielbratowski) is a licensed realtor with Keller Williams Select Realty. The Halifax Home Selling Group is a Brenda’s team of four ladies, all experienced agents with roots in Halifax. Thinking of relocating to Canada's Ocean Playground? Call Brenda K 902-471-8497