People relocate for a variety of reasons. Some practical and well-thought out, and others are simply a spontaneous change of scenery. Moving can be a huge step and requires thought and consideration. Are you moving for the right reasons? For your move to be successful, you want to ensure it is the right choice for you.
The following are some of the best reasons to make a move and improve your lifestyle.
1. Your home equity increased
If your home increased in value, you might want to take advantage of the current worth and move to a new place. There are many reasons as to why your home equity could increase, such as a home improvements or an improved real estate market. If the time seems right, sell your house and use the extra money to make a new, more expensive real estate purchase.
2. You are presented with a special educational opportunity
Sometimes, a once in a lifetime chance presents itself in the form of a educational opportunity. Maybe you just scored a full ride to your dream school or were accepted into a prestigious program thousands of miles away. If it's an opportunity you can't pass up, make a big move to follow your ambitions.
3. You land your dream job
Relocating for a job is one of the most practical reasons to move. Career opportunities are valuable, and if you are able to relocate in pursuit of a dream job, it can be a rewarding prospect. Many employers even offer relocation (RELO) packages to recruited employees willing to move for a position.
However, it may be difficult to leave your hometown and loved ones behind, or to convince your spouse and/or children to get on board. Weigh the cons of moving against the pros of your professional opportunity before making a decision. Also, remember to consider the cost of living in your potential new city. If it's much higher than your current residence, the increased salary offer may not be as attractive as you thought.
4. You want to adopt a dog
Owning a dog is a big responsibility, you want to make sure that your home is properly equipped for it. If you plan on getting a toy breed, it may be able to thrive in an apartment environment. Larger dogs, however, will need space to run and play.
Dogs are very active animals. You should get a big, fenced-in yard to accommodate your four-legged friend. Your dog is part of your family, and you want to do your best to make sure they feel at home.
5. Your children aren't being challenged in school
Providing a quality education for your children is important to all parents. If your current school system has a poor curriculum and a high delinquency rate, you may wish to relocate to offer your children better opportunities. Find the best school for your kids before looking for a new home.
Thoroughly research the districts in any neighborhood you are considering using the following criteria:
- State ranking
- Graduation rate
- Student performance/test scores
- Teacher to student ratio
- Extracurricular activities
It is also helpful to visit the schools in a potential neighborhood and speak with parents to get an up-close experience of what the school has to offer.
6. You want to build a custom house
Sometimes, the houses on the market just don't cut. You might have a knack for architecture, home design, and want to create your own custom house. Building a custom house will allow you to create the floorplan and layout exactly how you want it.
If you're able to find the right plot of land and the time feels right, building your own home may be the reason you move out of your old one.
7. You aged out of local activities
Sometimes people just need to switch it up from what they are used to. There are many different cultural reasons why one would want to move.
Perhaps you grew up in an urban area, and you're tired of the hustle and bustle of city life. Or maybe you're a landlocked Midwesterner who wants to retire by the ocean and waking up to the sound of the waves crashing. If you recently graduated college, you'll want to move away from the bars and frat parties.
People move to be surrounded by more like-minded people. As the saying goes, you are the company you keep.
8. You don't recognize your neighborhood any more
Safety is a valid concern when choosing a place to live. If you are residing in a neighborhood with high crime rates, you may be considering moving to a safer district. There are many resources for researching crime rates.
Other ways to determine the safety of an area include:
- Checking news sources
- Contacting the police
- Visiting the local parks
9. The housing market is cheaper elsewhere
If you have been renting for years, you may decide the time has come to purchase a place of your own. If you have saved the money for a downpayment, owning is more practical than renting. Instead of wasting money on rent each month, you'll be paying off an investment that may one day yield a profit.
It's not always in your best interest to buy a house where you currently live. Research surrounding areas to figure out how to get the most bang for your buck. A two-bedroom condo in New Jersey can cost the same as a five-bedroom home in Texas.
10. The climate affects your health
Members of the aging population often flee colder regions for warmer climates to be more comfortable and enjoy their retirement. Others may choose to move for better access to healthcare or to be closer to a medical treatment facility. Colder climates can be hostile to your respiratory or immune system, and dry air will affect your skin and lungs.