Simpson
Searching for an apartment can be stressful— especially when you’re searching from a distance! Navigating a long-distance move and finding a place to live when you’re unfamiliar with your destination is a big undertaking, but with the right approach, you can find the perfect place to call home.
Whether you’re moving for work or just starting somewhere new, here are the dos and don’ts of a long-distance apartment search.
Do: Make Your Intentions Known
As soon as you know about your move, start talking about it. Reach out to your network and build connections, letting people in that area know that you’re looking for a place. If you don’t have any connections in your target destination, ask your network if they know anyone in the city or town you’re moving to.
Using your networks can help you find a place faster and receive helpful advice from people who have navigated the long move before. Additionally, there’s comfort and familiarity in having contacts in common when moving to a new place. Even if you don’t find an apartment through these channels, you might make a contact who can show you around when you arrive.
Don’t: Wait to Start Searching
Don’t make the mistake of waiting until the last minute to start a dedicated search for a place to live. According to UMoveFree expert advice from professionals in the moving industry, the sooner you start, the better.
If you’re of the mindset that you’ll find a place to live when you arrive, it’s crucial that you reconsider. Rental markets in desirable areas are experiencing the same rising costs and fluctuations as the housing market. Finding a place will take longer than you think.
Do: Research Neighborhoods
You probably have an intuitive understanding of the good and not-so-good areas in your current location. The same applies to everywhere else. Saying you’re moving to Austin or Dallas isn’t enough— you need to research the neighborhoods.
Look for a neighborhood that’s within your budget and close to the amenities you need. Ask around for recommendations and weigh your options.
Don’t: Rely on Photos
Looking at photos is a great way to get the essence of an apartment, but it’s not enough for buying. If you have the resources to hop on a plane and go view apartments, it’s worth it. Conversely, if you can’t travel to your destination beforehand, request a live virtual tour and use your screen capture feature so you can review it again later.
Do: Create a Contingency Plan
If you’re moving for work or on a deadline, put together a contingency plan in case you don’t find an apartment or you have to wait to move in. Identify potential hotels or Airbnbs in which to stay and outline a budget to cover the gap.
Don’t: Let Stress Ruin Your Experience
Finally, don’t let the stress ruin your moving experience. It’s natural to feel stressed when navigating such a significant life change, but it’s imperative that you don’t let stress cloud your judgment. Don’t panic, and sign a lease sight unseen because you’re running out of time. Practice self-care and take small breaks from your search to reset.
With these practical tips, you can find a desirable apartment for your long-distance move. Take your time, be strategic, and the rest will fall into place.
