So, you’ve decided to move to a new city for a job opportunity? Moving is part of virtually all Americans’ lives and most of us will move about 12 times in our lives. Yet, no matter how many times we move, it is still stressful. When you add the pressures of the new job to the mix, it can really take a toll on your nerves and happiness. Here are some tips to survive job relocation.
Don’t Spend more than you have to on moving expenses
If you are a valuable asset to your new company, they should cover some of the moving expenses. Even if they don’t typically cover them, you can still negotiate for some of the expenses to be paid for. Don’t forget that you can get a tax deduction for the moving expenses – so make sure to save all those receipts for tax time!
Plan your budget carefully
When you move, you will have a lot of immediate expenses like:
• Rent and deposits
• Deposits on utilities
• Moving service costs
• Restocking your fridge and pantries
• Buying necessities for your new home
Make sure your finances are completely in order before you start the move. Make a realistic budget of how much you will need to spend for the move and during the initial few months before paychecks start coming in.
Get assistance
Your new company may offer a variety of relocation assistance services, such as help finding an apartment, transportation, and childcare services. Again, even if they don’t typically offer these sorts of relocation services, you should still ask for assistance!
Don’t choose your home location based on proximity to work
No one enjoys a long commute, but it may be worth driving a bit longer to work if it means living in a neighborhood that you will actually like. Consider your lifestyle when choosing a neighbor to live in, such as whether you prefer to be downtown close to the nightlife or whether you’d rather be somewhere quiet.
Rent or sublet before you make long term home commitments
If you currently own your home, you might be tempted to immediately buy a home in the new city. However, this means you will be very rushed in buying. Without experiencing the neighborhoods for yourself, you can’t be sure that you will be happy in a location. Consider renting or even subletting (and putting your things in storage) until you get a feel for a place. Then you can buy a home or sign a long-term lease.