Moving to a new state is an exciting opportunity, one that can introduce you to new places and new experiences. However, it can also be a stressful and time consuming process. Between looking for a job, learning about the city, and looking for a new home, it’s a process that takes patience and planning. Consider these helpful tips for adjusting and getting settled in a new state.

Do Your Research

Before packing your bags and heading out of town, it’s important to learn as much as you can about your new city. You should start by thinking about job opportunities. If you don’t already have a job secured, you need to begin researching and applying for jobs right away. You also need to consider the cost of living in your new city and learn about the region’s real estate market. This will help you determine what kind of home you can afford based on your income.

Furthermore, you want to learn about the environmental and social aspects of the city. What is the weather like? What kinds of activities are popular in the area? What are the best restaurants? In addition to reading about your new city online, it’s a good idea to take a trip there prior to moving and see the area for yourself. Drive around the city, learn about the neighborhoods, and talk to locals. The more you know about your new city, the easier it will be to adjust.

Look for a New Home

A couple of months before your move it’s wise to contact a local real estate agent in your new state that can help you find a home. Regardless of whether you are planning to rent or buy a home, it can be helpful to work with someone who is familiar with the area and can point you in the right direction. Local realtors will also be knowledgeable about the area’s housing market and will be able to guide you through the process of finding your new home.

Hire a Moving Company

Several weeks prior to your move you will want to book a moving company. You should consider all of your options, from hiring a full-service moving company to working with a portable storage company, to decide which one fits your needs and budget. You also want to consider whether or not you will need to rent a storage unit when you arrive in your new location. If so, you will want to reserve that well in advance. Planning and organizing your movers in advance will not only ensure you get moving services for the dates you need, but it will also give you time to gather a few quotes and check reviews with multiple companies.

 Pack in Advance

Packing is a complex process, so it’s always best to start well in advance. When you are moving to a new state, it is especially important to declutter and get rid of unwanted items before you move. Since the cost of your move will depend on the overall size of your load, there is no sense in bringing items and furniture you no longer need or want. With that in mind, start the packing process by selling or donating anything you don’t plan on using in your new home. Once you have decluttered and gotten rid of these items, you want to begin carefully packing your belongings. Be sure to use the appropriate packing supplies to ensure your belongings are safe throughout the trip and don’t forget to label your boxes for easy unpacking.

Find a School

If you are moving with school-age children, you want to make sure and research schools in the area. You can find top-rated schools in the area through internet searches as well as talking with locals in the area. It can also be helpful to tour a couple schools in-person so you can ask specific questions and get a feel for the atmosphere. If you are planning to attend a public school, this may also help you determine which neighborhoods will be most suitable for your new home.

 Make Travel Arrangements

If you are moving long distance, you will need to make travel arrangements for your move. Examples of these arrangements include booking plane tickets, booking a car rental, arranging for auto shipment, making hotel reservations, and making plans for pets. Oftentimes, it takes moving companies several days to deliver your belongings so you might have to make plans for temporary accommodations until your moving truck arrives.

Other Miscellaneous Tasks

Once you have arranged movers, packed your belongings, and set out on your way, you will need to consider all of the other tasks that need to be completed when you arrive in your new state. These include:
- Setting up utilities in your new home

-Forwarding your mail service

-Transferring school and medical records

-Getting a new driver’s license and vehicle registration

Get to Know the Area

Visiting local places of interest is a great way to learn about your new city and state. From museums and state parks to historical landmarks, places of interest allow you to capture a true feel for your new home state and create new memories. Be sure to spend some time checking out local restaurants, planning a little getaway to nearby attractions, and exploring all that your new state has to offer. You can also spend time talking with and meeting people in your new neighborhood to help you establish a sense of community.