There are so many things to think about and do when relocating. When you are ready to look for a new home at a distance – even out of state – it’s best to start by visiting the location you will be moving to, in advance of buying a house. You might even decide that renting a home is the best first step in your relocation. In order to help you feel a little less stressed about moving to a brand new town or state, I’m sharing advice about buying a house before relocating.
Buying a House Before Relocating
Will you be moving to your new location for work, or are you retiring and moving to a different area? In either case, you can consider renting a home for a period of time and getting to know your new location a bit before you start to look for a new home to buy. You can certainly take more time to find just the right place if you rent first. At the same time, renting certainly has drawbacks. You will need to move twice and you might need to store your belongings while living in your rental. You will also be spending money on rent instead of a mortgage on your own home. Weigh your options and see which way to go forward with either renting or buying when relocating.
If you decide to buy a home to move into when you relocate, there are many ways you can go about the process. The best is to first locate a great real estate agent in the location you are considering moving to. Reach out to them and ask questions about the area, what the home prices are like, ask about the schools and other amenities that are important to you, to get a good idea of the area. The agent can give you lots of information about what to expect in the town you are relocating to.
Also, if you have a relocation package from your employer, make sure to mention that to any agent you speak with.
Relocating to a New Area
Once you have chosen your real estate agent, discuss the best process for searching for just the right home. Share your home must haves and budget. Your agent will be able to send you new homes that meet your criteria as soon as they come on the market.
Look the listings over closely, and as you narrow down the houses you like the best, arrange for a home tour to see the home if possible. Even a weekend visit with a handful or more of home listings to tour can make all the difference in finding the right place to buy ahead of relocating. It might be a long weekend, but after you see the homes, drive the commute you will have for work, and take a look around the neighborhoods you liked, you will be in a better position to make a new home decision. You might even find the right place that weekend and be able to put in an offer. If not, you have at least made great strides towards the areas available and you can probably narrow down the parts of town better in regards to where you would like to relocate to.
Things to Know when Buying a House out of Town
Most of the steps for buying a new home out of town will be similar to buying a home near where you currently live. With technology the way it is, much of the paperwork and agreements can be handled through a portal, website, or email.
MLS listings are available online with many pictures, videos, and maps to help narrow down your new home selection. Your real estate agent can likely refer you to a mortgage lender in your new area, too.
Once you are ready to pack up and head out, check out my other articles 6 Simple Packing Tips For Moving and 9 Practical Moving Tips to help make the process smoother.
Working with an Experienced Memphis Area Real Estate Agent
When it’s time to sell your existing home or buy a great new place, turn to a highly regarded and well-informed local real estate agent. You want someone that you can trust to give you the best advice and know-how for your new home purchase or sale. Check out my other great articles to help you through your home selling and buying experience here in Memphis. Staging homes for sale is also part of my expertise. Please ask me about it when you reach out.
Take a minute to learn more about me. With over 15 years of top-notch service for my clients, I can guide you with your house sale, new home purchase, or buying a great parcel of land. As a top, licensed real estate agent in the Memphis area, showing you the best properties for you and your family is my goal!
Contact me at (901) 828-8919 or drop me a quick note at angie@angiekelley.com and we can speak in person about your plans and options. Ask me about seeing homes for sale by video or virtual tour and find the best place for you!
Angie Kelley, Crye-Leike Realtors
(901) 828-8919 or (901) 756-8900
