It’s a new year full of possibilities and opportunities. Maybe it's finally time to make that 'big move' you’ve always dreamed about - and spread your wings. It could be the city lights that are beckoning, a country estate home or perhaps it's a move to the coast where you can wake up to the sound of waves breaking on the seashore.
Whatever turns you on, a new year gives you the perfect reason for a fresh start. For some it may be spurred on by having to move for work reasons, which makes the decision all the more pressing. Starting over is both exciting and daunting, especially if you're not well-acquainted with the new city or town.
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by information, or just the revelation that you have to move. Where should you start? What should you look at and consider?
The best way to help you decide if you should make the move is to start from the beginning. Look at the facts without emotion or bias clouding your judgement. It’s not as easy as it sounds, so take a deep breath and follow these tips:
The list
Write out a comprehensive list of pros and cons. This golden oldie piece of advice can be used in any situation, and will help to give you perspective on your options.
Money matters
The first question you should ask yourself is “Can I afford this move?” If the answer is “No”, you know you can’t make the move. But just how do you know if you can afford to move? Take it step by step:
- Firstly, establish the living costs of the new town or city. There are many websites that will assist you with this. Websites like Numbeo will allow you to compare the living costs of two cities, as well as other comparisons such as crime levels, quality of life, and so forth. Will you be able to maintain, or maybe improve your lifestyle? Or will you have to downscale? This is a very important consideration for deciding to move or not.
- Research rentals and homes for sale in various areas. Can you afford to live there? Do you need to sell your house before you move? Factor this into your calculations.
- Get to know the neighbourhood you are interested in. What have properties been selling for here? Have the sold prices increased, decreased or stayed the same over the last few years? Also, what value will you receive for your money?
- The move itself will also cost you, so shop around for quotes from moving companies to find the best one; also consider the reliability of the company in order to avoid moving mishaps.
- If you are moving a great distance away, you will need to factor in petrol costs, and possibly overnight accommodation.
Family matters
If you are single, it is easier to make the decision to relocate, purely because you only need to consider your own survival, so to speak. However, if you have a spouse or partner, you need to consider whether both of you will be able to achieve a satisfactory income where you are planning to move to. In other words, will your combined income allow you to maintain your current lifestyle or could you improve it?
Another very important aspect is kids. If you have kids in school, you will need to find out about the quality of the schools they will be attending, as well as associated costs and whether there is place for them.
More to consider
Here are a few other things you need to consider before moving:
- Get crime statistics for the area you plan to live in. Can you live with the crime rates? Also, compare this to where you currently live.
- What kind of people live in this area? Are there mostly families, young couples or students, for example? Do you see yourself 'fitting in with the crowd'?
- Research the climate. If you hate heat, for example, Durban might not be the best option for you.
- Look into your insurance policies, as they might be affected by the region you live in. Most medical aids, for example, are priced lower in coastal regions.
- Will your new hometown be able to cater to your hobbies and entertainment needs? Research sports and other clubs of interest.
- If you are planning to commute, how will the traffic affect you? It may be best to try the routes out before buying or renting.
- Should you rely on public transport, will your needs be met?
- Will you be fine if it takes you a while to meet new friends?
- Will you be near to or too far from your family? Can you cope?
- Moving is stressful - make sure you are prepared.
As you start contemplating moving, you will think of more and more things you need to consider.
Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favour! - Ula van Zyl
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