The time it takes to move to a different state depends a lot on the size of your household as well as how far away your new home is from your current one. On average, it takes about 5 to 6 weeks to prepare for and complete a move to a different state.
On paper, moving is fairly easy and consists of three steps:
- Planning
- Packing
- Moving
Many older adults, especially those in cooler climates, choose to relocate to more tropical areas, such as Florida. Solivita Living is a real estate agency specializing in 55+ communities across Central Florida. We have 8 properties to choose from with a wide variety of amenities and nearby attractions.
Moving does require a lot of thought and planning. You’ll want to become acquainted with the area before you commit to moving. As a retiree, when you move to a different state, things like the schools and job market may not be very important, but there are several things to consider.
In this article, we’ll explore some of these factors that are worth the time it takes to consider them.
5 Things to Consider When You Move to a Different State
When you are planning your move to a different state, there are a few things you should take the time to consider:
Weather
The weather can have a significant impact on your daily plans, mood, lifestyle, and utility bills. Take some time to research the weather patterns in the area you plan to move to including the average temperatures, and any natural disasters that typically happen. By knowing the risks, you can make sure to get a homeowner’s insurance policy to cover these if anything happens.
Cost-of-Living
The average cost of living varies from one area to another. Take some time to compare the cost of living in the area you currently live in versus where you are moving to. Don’t let yourself be caught off guard over the differences in housing, transportation, and food prices.
Housing Market/Real Estate
The amount of money that would buy you a three-bedroom house in one area may only pay for a studio apartment- with roommates- in another. Avoid sticker shock by taking the time to do your research to learn about the types of property available, average home prices (total and per square foot), average time on the market, and average rent.
Culture/Lifestyle
Take the time to learn about the culture and lifestyle when you are planning to move to a different state. If you want peace and quiet, you may prefer the suburbs. If you crave sports, Texas may be a good option. If you want to be near family-friendly attractions and beaches, Florida may be near the top of your list. Before you move, learn about the things that make your new home unique such as places to eat, festivals, and more.
Healthcare
One of the most important factors to consider, especially for older adults, is the quality of healthcare, including the facilities and the providers. Think about any medical conditions you have and whether or not you require specialists. You may also want to research the local resources in your area for healthcare provider advice and referrals.
Are You Ready To Move?
If you are getting ready to move to a different state, you should be aware that it takes about 5 to 6 weeks from start to finish. While there are three basic steps in the moving process, it’s a lot more involved than you might think. The sooner you get started, the better. If you are planning to retire to Florida, you may want to schedule a tour of a Solivita Living property. We have a wide variety of amenities and attractions to keep you entertained.