Here are 6 Real Estate Tips for a Smoother Relocation.

If you are relocating for your career or any other personal reason, it is a very exciting time. However, it can also be somewhat intimidating. It’s always a little strange moving to a new area, especially if you aren’t very familiar with the region. You essentially have to learn a whole new lifestyle with different stores, commutes, restaurants, job and even friends.

At The HD Group, we work with a lot of people who are making major moves to or from the Los Angeles area and the San Gabriel Valley. Some choose to leave LA and seek greener pastures in other parts of California or out of state. Meanwhile, many looking to take their careers to the next level are flocking to Southern California for better job opportunities and a higher quality of life.

Moving to a big city like Los Angeles with a massive urban sprawl can definitely be an intimidating process for some individuals and families. Even if you’ve lived in big cities before, there’s nothing quite like Southern California and that’s why so many people choose to come here from all over the world.

Whether you are relocating to or from the Los Angeles/San Gabriel Valley area, it’s important to make smart decisions and do what you can to make your transition as smooth and successful as possible. This is especially true when it comes to real estate. Here are some relocation tips to consider:

1. Build Your Budget

If you have the time and ability to save up for your big move, it’s a good idea to be financially prepared. A major relocation to a completely different area—especially an expensive region like Southern California—often ends up costing more than most people expect. Save your money, build a budget and use it wisely throughout your transition.

2. Do Your Research

As you build your budget, you will want to do as much research as you can about your new area. Understand the living expenses, the lifestyle and the different communities. It’s safe to say the LA has multiple personalities, and things are very different in West Hollywood or Beverly Hills than they are in Pasadena or Arcadia. It’s important to find a community that fits your budget and your lifestyle needs.

3. Scouting Mission

If you have the opportunity, definitely make sure you do a scouting mission of your new area. Plan a visit and take an extended trip to explore different communities, look at real estate and figure out exactly where you want to live.

4. Find Your New Home

It sure removes a lot of stress when you already know where you are going to live before you move. Whether you decide to rent for awhile or you are planning to buy a house or condo, you should definitely have a solid plan of where you will be living after your move. In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive real estate market, you don’t want to be left unprepared. Southern California especially doesn’t slow down for anyone, so you better know what you are getting into before you move.

5. Consult with a Real Estate Professional

If you are planning to buy a home in your new city, build a relationship with a local real estate agent or broker first. Interview several and find someone who you trust to help you make good buying decisions. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and utilize their local expertise to guide you through your move, even if most of the work is done remotely while you are still in your current location. If you are selling your current house, coordinate with your local real estate professional. Find two agents who are connected through the same broker or referral network. They can work together on both ends of your purchase and sale to help make your transactions go as smoothly as possible.

6. Start Your Job Search Early

If you are moving to or from LA because you already have a great job lined up, then you are one big step ahead of the game. If you aren’t sure about your new job situation, then it pays to do your research and start applying/interviewing for positions well ahead of your move. It will remove a lot of stress and worry when you know where you are going to live and where you are going to work after your move.

These are just a few simple tips to help you with your relocation process. If you are planning to move to or from the greater Los Angeles area or San Gabriel Valley, contact The HD Group today for professional real estate guidance throughout your home purchase and/or sale. We’re here to help provide guidance and expertise throughout your big move.