We all have highs and lows in life, and it is in the lowest parts of our timeline that we often find the courage to move forward. For many of us, this means moving to a new home or even a new state. Is it scary? Absolutely. But you will never find the change you need if you stay where you are. Today, Jack Mierop covers the practical side of relocating to give yourself a fresh start after a divorce, death, job loss, or other traumatic event.
Start With Your Needs
When you’re recovering from a low point, you have to focus on what you need so that you have the strength to continue moving forward. Start your self-evaluation by defining your needs. For example, do you need to be within walking distance of the grocery store? Do you need a home with room for an office? If you are moving to better yourself, you should look for properties that help you meet your goals. You also need enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate everyone that will be moving with you, even if you have children only part of the time.
When you have an idea of what you need, you can get to work pricing homes that meet your budget. If you already know what city you plan to move to, start researching home prices. You can easily do this online or ask your realtor to help. When money is your biggest concern, remember that homes outside of the city limits typically cost less.
Once you are satisfied that you can financially afford to fulfill your needs, start thinking about your wants. If you want a home with a sunroom or swimming pool, for example, make sure to put those requirements into your search queries. No matter what you want, remember that you can always add on, redecorate, and make other changes once you move in.
As for the actual move, there are some simple things you can do to minimize stress. First, take it a little bit at a time. Don’t try to pack everything at once. Also, don’t just rely on family and friends to help. You can save yourself a lot of headaches – and bruised elbows – by hiring local moving companies to help. Just make sure you browse ratings and reviews first, and request a quote in advance, to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make Other Changes, Too
Speaking of changes, your address and environment aren’t the only things that you might want to shake up now. As you’re moving on with your life, you might also wish to move on with your career, and starting your own business might be an ideal move. Before you do, make sure that you research how to handle business formation, payroll, inventory, sales, and startup capital.
A quick word of advice here: wait until after you’ve purchased your new home to quit your job if you’re planning on self-employment. My Mortgage Insider cautions that most lenders want a two-year history of finances if you work for yourself.
Getting Settled
Starting a new business is a great way to interact with your community, there are plenty of other ways to get settled and acclimated to your new environment, as well. Consider joining local parent groups, sports organizations, or even a fitness club.
If you are moving with children, be compassionate throughout the process. Although the move might be much-needed, your children will grieve the loss of what they know. Be compassionate, but do not try to shield them from the stresses that inevitably go along with a major transition. Do spend some time touring their school and making sure they have access to social and recreational opportunities as well.
Moving is a big deal but sometimes, a change of address is just what you need to dig yourself out of a hole. The above tips can help you handle the practical aspects, including finding something affordable and preparing yourself for additional changes, such as starting a business or moving with children. But, remember, time is the only true healer of wounds, but you may never heal if you stay where you hurt. Moving is a great opportunity to recharge and reset, don’t be afraid to seize the opportunity to relocate when the time is right.
Jack Mierop is a motivational speaker, life coach, ordained minister, educator, event coordinator & author. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!
By Emma Grace Brown
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