Anytime you relocate to a new area, whether it’s a city just a few miles away or across the country, you face a unique set of challenges.
The housing market, the transit, and even the weather may not be what you’re used to. Planning your move can be difficult, too, since you need to coordinate when, where, and how you’ll be moving your belongings to a new area.
Because moving to a completely new area means learning about a new housing market and a new community, we wanted to share a few helpful Washington DC relocation tips to make it a much easier experience for you.
1. Research Housing Costs
Home prices for similar properties can vary drastically from one city to another. Take some time to research the DC real estate market, and consider these questions when searching for your new home:
- How much are local property taxes?
- How large a home can you afford?
- Is it cheaper to rent or buy a home?
2. Check the Weather
If you’re moving far away from your current home to relocate to the DC area, you may want to consider the new weather conditions and adjust your wardrobe.
For instance, someone who relocates from Florida to Alaska will need more winter coats, snow boots, and blackout curtains for the longer summer days. That’s an extreme example, but it can give you an idea of what to consider when relocating to a new area and a new climate.
3. Research Healthcare Professionals
You will need to choose a new dentist, doctor, and optometrist when relocating. Check local recommendations for healthcare professionals around DC before moving. That way you’ll have one less thing to worry about when you get here.
4. Test Your Commute
Give yourself enough time to test your drive to work, to the grocery store, or to other points of interest after you move. Washington DC traffic varies at different times of the day and week, so you may need to spend some time driving along different roads to get an idea of what to expect.
5. Plan for Your Move
Start packing now so you’ll be less stressed later. Make a detailed plan for how you are shipping your belongings, what day you will be moving, and how you will get to your new home. Consider these packing tricks:
- label moving boxes by room
- keep a list of items that are in each box
- keep your most valuable possessions with you
6. Adjust Your Home Search Checklist
Moving to the U.S. capital means you may have to adjust your home search based on the housing market, weather conditions, and commute. If you need help, just ask. We’re here to help you in any way we can.
7. Take One Step at a Time
Relocating to this area can seem overwhelming. We recommend setting small goals. Search for homes for just 20 minutes. Pack just one box for the move. Make a list of pros and cons for just one of DC’s communities. You’ll be ready to relocate in no time.
We’re Here to Make Your Relocation Easier
It’s much easier to move and adjust to a new area when you have a local guide to help you along the way. That’s why we’re here. We can give you all the information you need to know about relocating to Washington D.C., maybe even details you wouldn’t have thought about. Our ultimate goal is helping you find the property that is best for you.
But we also want you to love living here just as much as we do. There is so much to explore, and we want to make it easier for you to get here and start spending your time enjoying the DC area.
Call or email us for more relocation tips — we’re more than happy to help.
