Q: What should you do before relocating for a job?
A: After 14 years as a relocation specialist, I have found that there are essentially five primary considerations tied to personal preferences that should be resolved before relocating to a new city.
The client should research the new city before considering anything. There are various websites, but the Chamber of Commerce is a good start.
Next are the personal preferences. Settling these upfront will reduce stress later:
· Do you prefer urban or suburban living?
· Do you want to live near the workplace?
· What size and price range are you looking for in a home? (This is important, as the price per square foot can vary greatly, depending on the area.)
· If you have children, are you considering public or private schools? Public school system borders can often narrow search-area options.
· Do you prefer planned communities or traditional, longstanding neighborhoods?
Once a client has prioritized these items, a consultation with a relocation specialist prior to making the first trip can greatly reduce the search areas that will accommodate their needs. Once I know what is important to the client, I can help make their first trip enjoyable and productive.