While a move to a new city or area can be exciting, it can also be daunting to leave the familiar behind. Seeff says it is important to research the area, especially if it is another town or city. If possible, visit the area to get a first-hand view or get information from trusted friends or relatives.
READ: Freehold vs Estate Living | Locals in search of security and a better quality of life
According to Samuel Seeff, chairman of the Seeff Property Group migration in addition to investigating aspects such as schools, services and the availability of shops for basic necessities, you should also look at commuting times. Traffic can be a dampener for someone moving to a new area only to find that they are experiencing more travel stress.
READ: A new home presents the perfect opportunity to overhaul your household budget
Minimise the stress of moving by always including your children in the decision. While it is easier to move with pre-teens, it is much harder with older children who become attached to their schools and friends. Ensure their needs are managed carefully.
Financial security is vital when moving to a new area, town, or city. Besides the moving costs, a new home also comes with added financial considerations such as utility and other deposits, new curtains or window coverings, security, and the like.
Get to know the community by joining Facebook groups even before moving to the new area to start integrating. These are also a valuable source of information and advice and can give you further insight into the new neighbourhood and community.
If you are unsure of where to buy, consider renting at first, especially if you are unfamiliar with the town or city. This will give you the opportunity to make the right decision about where to buy once you are based in the area.
READ: Tips for downsizing and moving to a smaller home
In the event that you are unsure about how permanent your move will be, and you have an attachment to your house, you may want to retain it and rent it out for a while before making the final decision. You will, however, need to consider that there may be additional costs involved.
Fortunately, these days the internet is a web of information which enables you to view areas and search online for properties. Online listings also enable you to see much more of the property and you can even use the pin location to view it in the street and neighbourhood.
Moving from a freestanding house to a security complex or estate may also need adjustment because you are now part of a community which comes with rules of conduct such as noise and visitor parking. Be sure to familiarise yourself with these before you make the move.
Lastly, be careful of fake agents and properties. While the internet is a wonderful source of information and property listings, it is also full of fraudsters ready to swindle you. Only deal with credible estate agents regardless of whether you are looking to rent or buy. Get someone locally to verify the agent and property information if necessary and do not hand over any banking details or money unless you have verified the agent and property.
READ: Tips for first-time movers and 3 ways to keep costs low
An article published on Property24 on May 25, 2022, features Ana Roberts of Just Property Upper Highway, who explains that another great benefit of downscaling is that small spaces require less furniture - a few great statement pieces allow for simple, minimalist décor and a beautiful, welcoming home at a fraction of the cost of furnishing a big house. And the cleaning is a breeze!
Less clutter equals less stress, and isn’t that what we are all looking for now?
Tips for cosy-home hunting:
Location, location, location - You want to remain close to your family and friends, and have ease of access to stores and other amenities such as doctors, hospitals etc. Narrow your search to areas that tick these boxes.
What are your deal breakers? Does the home offer the main assets that are important to you, for example, a good kitchen, nice family space, shower etc?
Current wants vs future needs - If you are downsizing because the children have moved out and you are getting older, consider a single story with the ease of access rather than a property with stairs that may cause a problem later.
Growing pains - Will you be able to handle the upkeep of a big garden, or is it time for something smaller that is more manageable? Will your pets cope with a smaller space; is there somewhere nearby where you could walk them?
Fit for purpose - Will your favourite furniture fit in the new space? Make a list of every piece with which you can’t part. Take measurements. Then take a tape measure with you when you start narrowing down your list of potential new homes.
Storage war - Is there enough cupboard space in the bedrooms and the kitchen? Do you need outside storage too?
Peace of mind - Check the security features of each property you visit. Find out how safe the area is and what security is available. Ask the neighbours, chat to the local police, and phone a security company that focuses on the neighbourhood.
Guest appeal - Consider how many bedrooms you will need going forward - if your kids have all moved out of home, you may only need one spare room for when they or your friends come to stay.
Paper trails - Remember to ask for compliance certificates, even those that aren't required in your province (for example, gas installations and solar geysers should come with a compliance certificate - if something goes wrong and you don't have one, your insurers may refuse to replace the geyser, or cover damage caused by a gas issue).
Complex questions - If you are moving into a complex or an apartment, be aware that there may be the added expense of levies, clubhouse fees and/or security. Ask about historical escalation rates and request a copy of the body corporate rules (if applicable.)
Ask your neighbours if there are any noise issues, does sound travel through the walls and ceiling? How old is the plumbing, the lifts etc - upgrading such items is very expensive and you’ll have to contribute. What parking is available for guests?
*Article updated 11 November
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