What are the Most Popular Reasons for Moving?

There comes a time in one's life where they'll have to decide whether they want to stay where they are or pick up their lives and move to a new home. A move can be spurred by personal or professional reasons that require a change of residence, or it can be an attempt to change your life.

Here are several major reasons why people choose to move and discover life in a brand new place.

Personal reasons for moving

• Family: Some people move for reasons tied to their families. Perhaps a relative is ill in a faraway location, and you would like to be nearby to care for them.
  
  
• Space: Another "personal" reason could be that you would rather raise your child on an expansive farm instead of a cramped brownstone. Some families outgrow a house and require a larger abode to fit their growing brood. Other times, you just need a backyard.
  
  
• School system: Another popular reason one would move is to better the lives of their family members. In this instance, schools may be better in one area than another. And since education is the key to opening doors to the future, it's important for families to find a place where academics are strong and widely supported in the community.
  
  
• Aesthetics: Finally, there are moves that are done for aesthetic purposes. While it may not be essential to relocate, it certainly wouldn't be a negative thing either. Old homes may feel stuffy or boring, and a change of scenery is always welcome for some individuals. Weather patterns or natural resources may be more favorable in a different climate. Sometimes, people miss their vacation homes so much during the year that it's only sensible to move there year-round.

Moving for a job opportunity

Many times, business relocations force employees to uproot and move elsewhere. And rather than face longer commutes, some people would prefer living near their job. Moving for your profession also impacts your personal life and the connection should never be forgotten.

• Staffing demands: Some companies are forced to reassign employees to new locations. Employees may find themselves moving across town, across the country or even overseas. The cost of moving is usually covered by the company. The cost of commuting, initial stays in the new area, creating paperwork (notably for international relocations) and counseling fees are often covered as well.
  
  
• Job market: Sometimes, people move to find a new job rather than relocating with their current employer. This opens up new possibilities while simultaneously introducing the individual to a new culture. Before finalizing your move, collect as much information about your new area as possible -- including the cost of living, transportation methods, local culture, and the like.

  TIP: Make sure there are ample opportunities for your desired employment in your new location before you move. Follow trends to confirm you will have job security.

Arrange for temporary accommodations as soon as you set a moving date and always have a back-up plan ready. Tell your employer about the move at least two weeks in advance and be receptive to ideas and suggestions they may have. When you arrive, immediately begin interviewing and making good, professional impressions on those you meet.

Corporate relocation to succeed in business

Many managers are faced with the difficulty of weighing the benefits of an office move. It is never an easy decision, but there are many reasons why moving an office can be beneficial.

• Current market trends: This may boost business and lead to an increase in profits. New markets are particularly appealing as the business can approach a fresh, open-minded customer base. Other companies move to places where competition is low, guaranteeing at least moderate success.
  
  
• Economics: The cost of maintaining an office and staff may be significantly lower in the suburbs or rural areas than in large cities. While rent, utilities, and labor may be less expensive, supply deliveries and other materials may cost significantly more.
  
  
• Growth: Expansion is a big reason why companies move into new offices. When companies are extremely large (notably utility and manufacturing companies), they may purchase large developments of houses near the business for employees to inhabit. This makes moving easier as a home will already be made available to you.

Other considerations for moving

Regardless of what your reason for moving is, weigh these answers against your reasons for moving to make sure that you are ready to relocate:

• How will the move impacts your life and well-being?
• Do your friends and family have any input?
• Does your new place balance your needs and your desires?