As if starting a new job wasn’t stressful enough, moving for a new job can be even more daunting. Between selling your current home, looking for a new one, transferring the kids to a new school, and leaving behind family and friends, it can be hard to know where to begin. Moving is a big task even when you are staying in the same city, but moving to a new location involves additional planning and organization. If you have accepted an offer for a job in a new city, consider the following tips to ensure a successful move.

Negotiate a Relocation Package

When you have been offered a job in another city, it’s always a good idea to check with the new employer to inquire about relocation benefits. Many companies, especially large corporations, offer great benefits for employees that are relocating. This generally covers moving expenses, but may also include buying your existing home or offering to pay closing costs on your new one. Before accepting an offer, be sure to negotiate these relocation benefits.

Research Your New City

As soon as you know you will be moving, begin researching your new city. Find out about the weather, landscape, local attractions, outdoor activities, schools, and communities. Look into average housing prices and cost of living expenses in your new location. If possible, you should also plan a couple of trips to help you learn more about the city and potential areas where you may want to live.

Connect with a Local Real Estate Agent

Once your home is on the market, go ahead and contact a local real estate agent in your new city. Having a realtor with a local presence can be extremely helpful, especially since you aren’t familiar with the area. A local real estate agent can make recommendations for neighborhoods and communities that best fit your needs. They can help you find good schools, a convenient commute, and any other amenities you might be looking for. Furthermore, they will have a better knowledge of the current market and can give you a realistic idea of what homes will cost.

Create a Moving Checklist

Moving is challenging enough, but things get even more complicated when it involves moving to a new city. There are so many complex logistics involved including selling your existing home, buying a new one, dealing with real estate agents, handling inspections and closings, and of course packing and transporting all of your belongings. Make a list of everything that needs to be done and add items as they come up. This will help you keep track of all the tasks that need to be completed and ensures you don’t forget anything.

Hire the Right Moving Service

You have many options when it comes to moving your belongings from one city to another. Of course, you can always hire a professional moving company to handle your move, but if you are paying for your own move, you may want to consider a more affordable option. Renting a portable storage unit can be a great option because it is more affordable, more convenient, and you get the added bonus of having your items safely stored for as long as you need. Perhaps you are planning to rent until you feel more comfortable buying a home or it might be that you are doing some renovations before you move in. Whatever the reason, portable storage units make storing your belongings easy and convenient.