Tips for a Smooth Relocation to Austin TX
Will you be relocating to Austin soon? Whether you’re relocating for a new job, to be closer to family or want to experience what it is like living in one of the nation’s fastest growing cities, we would like to warmly welcome you! As excited as you may be about relocating, the thought of settling into any new community can be intimidating. And let’s face it, moving can be stressful. We will provide you with our expert tips to help make the process of relocating a lot smoother.
Partner with a Knowledgeable Realtor® about Your Relocation
An experienced Austin real estate agent is your best ally when it comes to relocating. Not only does he or she have ample knowledge of the Austin Texas real estate market, the ins and outs of each neighborhood, and the latest trends, an agent can also offer other valuable information. They can be your go-to for information on everything from recommendations for mortgage lenders, reputable movers, award-winning schools, contractors, and even area eateries and doctors.
When Relocating to Austin, Consider Your Housing Options — Carefully
When moving into an area that is new to you, committing to buying a house immediately may not be the best choice. Renting at first is a great way to settle into a new city and to get to know which Austin neighborhoods work best for you and your family. Very few real estate companies offer both renting and selling services. Look for a Realtor® who handles both, such as Habitat Hunters.
Organize, Organize, Organize
While location, location, location (see our article on the best places to live in Austin) is the mantra when it comes to buying a house in Austin, organize, organize, organize is the mantra when it comes to ensuring a smooth relocation. There are plenty of logistics to manage when moving to Austin, and just the thought of figuring out where to start can make your head spin and keep you up at night counting moving boxes instead of sheep.
Fortunately, we live in the age of technology and there are no shortages of moving apps available to download to help keep you on track. From apps that compile rates from several different moving companies to apps that help you organize all your possessions by creating a visual inventory, getting organized could not be easier.
Speaking of possessions, this is the ideal time to downsize and donate unwanted and unused items. Having fewer items to pack, transport and unpack will make for a much easier move. Several companies will gladly schedule a free pick up for heavy items (in good, usable condition) such as furniture.
Pace Yourself in Preparation for Your Austin Relocation
Beginning the process far enough in advance of the move allows you to pace yourself so you are not trying to pack your entire house in one weekend (along with trying to tackle your seemingly unending list of other things to do before moving day). Armed with your to-do lists from your trusty apps, you should be able to cross things off a little at a time.
Take the Time to Get Acquainted with Austin
Whether you will be relocating to Austin for a couple of years or for a lifetime, take the time to read the local news and local blogs to understand all that this city has to offer. Better yet, if possible, spend some time visiting in person a few times. This will give you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with area grocery stores, shopping centers, home improvement stores, pharmacies and houses of worship. Check out any services, activities or organizations that are of particular interest to you and your family.
As a precaution, locate hospitals and physicians that will meet your family’s needs before an emergency arises.
Build a Network of Friends
If you are relocating to Austin and do not know anyone who lives in the area, take the effort to make connections and build a network of new friends. Connect with people at work or meet new people by joining various groups that interest you: a running group, arts and crafts group, book club, or sign up for a yoga class, knitting class, etc.
While there is no denying that the thought of relocating can be intimidating and stressful, it can ultimately end up being an experience that wasn’t so bad after all. Working with the right Austin real estate agency, getting organized and giving yourself enough time in advance to prepare for the logistics of the move (with the help of to-do lists, moving apps and moving experts), can pave the way for a smooth relocation experience.
If you are planning on relocating to Austin TX or the surrounding area, we are here to help you through the entire process. Contact us today to speak to one of our Austin Realtors® who can seamlessly help you relocate to one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.
