Blog

Relocating has been identified as one of the top ten human stressors, right up there with death, public speaking, marriage, and child birth.  With that being said, it is unfortunate how many people go about a move and relocation on their own, learning by trial and error, without the assistance of a professional or expert.  Offered here are a few valuable tips and suggestions for people looking to relocate and/or build their dream home, whether it be local or across the country.

The key to a smooth relocation is the type of question asked, along with the preparation and research done upfront.  Here are several broad topics to consider in order to assure a Smooth Relocation:

1.  Age and Demographic:  Do you want to be around people your age or a healthy mix of young and mature?   We are not just thinking about “now,” but rather several years into the future.

2.  Health:  Consider the proximity to health care facilities, type of care needed, allergies, and family medical history. It is very important to think about future care and needs, especially if you have enjoyed good health for much of your life.  Situations can change rapidly.  If building a house, design the doorways capable of accommodating a wheelchair, just in case.  You do not want to relocate to an area known for bee attacks if you are deathly allergic to bee stings and can not get immediate medical attention or antibody injections.  Are your allergies controlled by medication that does not cause drowsiness or limit your ability to function normally?

3.  Climate:  Do you want one season or four?  Do you love the fall color changes in the trees?  Is there a medical or physical condition that is worsened by general climactic conditions? 

4.  Religion:  Consider the proximity and availability of your particular religious congregation.  Is this a determining factor in your decision on a particular location?

5.  Current location:  Your must have and must avoids.  What do you want that is the same or different in your new area?  Are you tired of living next to a busy street?  Do you want unobstructed views free from the high-tension power lines you have put up with for years?

6.  Rural, Suburban, or City:  Consider population, crime, and general lifestyle of an area.  We all want low crime, no crowds, and all the conveniences of a large city.  What about good schools, even if the kids have grown and moved away?  This can equate to higher property values. 

7.  Residency plans:  Is this to be your primary residence or second home?  Either way, treat it as if you will be moving into the house on a full-time basis, just in case.

8.  Family:  Are you comfortable with less frequent visits from family and friends if you move away from everyone?  Consider the number of visits you would like to make each year and the travel costs associated for both sides.  Assure this is an acceptable arrangement with all parties involved.

9.  Retail Conveniences:  Consider the proximity of shopping, dining, entertainment and how it relates to your lifestyle.  How close, or far, would you like to be to the conveniences of establishments such as the grocery store, hardware, gas stations and more?  Consider all aspects and implications of travel time to and from and wear and tear on the family car.

10.  Neighbors:  Consider how close, how many, and how you would like to interact.  Do you want to step next door and have a quick chat at a moments notice, or drive a few miles to see another human being?  The proximity of friends and neighbors will have a strong impact on your desired sense of community and attachment.

11. Social and Recreational:  Consider availability of clubs, organizations, and volunteerism.

12. Hobbies:  Consider the availability of local resources to pursue your interests.  For example, if you enjoy flying, how about a fly-in community built around a private airport.  If boating and fishing are important, look at lake communities.  Is bird watching, golf, or painting important to you?

13. Favorite Vacation Spot: What is it about your favorite vacation spots that you most enjoy?  Does the allure of this area diminish once the thought of living there year-round sets in?

14. Financial: Consider the affordability and sustainability of the area as it relates to your lifestyle.  Does an international relocation appeal to you?  There are many international communities which cater to individuals moving in from other countries.

15. Occupation:  Will you continue in your current field of labor, start a new business, or retire completely?  If your plan is to keep your hand in your chosen field, start a new career, or retire from the grind completely, make sure your new location offers you all the resources and opportunities you would like.

16. Education:  Do you plan to return to school, complete an advanced degree, or participate in continuing education courses?  You may have completed all the education you want.  If so, living in an area with a reputation for high quality education is a great investment.

Tags: about relocating, baby boomer, boomers, concept to creation, dream home relocation, how to relocate, jeffrey crane, making the right move, moving advice, relo, relo tips, relocation, relocation questions, relocation tips, retirement, retirement relocation

You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.