Serious Real Estate Challenges for Serious Relocation Buyers (Part 1 of a 3-Part Series)

Serious relocation buyers to Carlsbad, or anywhere for that matter, must take a serious approach to their home searching and the overall process. After all, relocation is a tough job with a host of tasks to navigate successfully.

And if you are moving to an unfamiliar area, coupled with other moving challenges (e.g., jobs, family, pets, cars), on top of daily living and home searching remotely, at times it can seem insurmountable.

Here are some tips for your relocation and issues to keep in mind in this 3-part series:

PART 1 of 3

HOME SEARCHING

The Internet is the obvious choice, to learn more about the market and seek out the home that fits your needs and desired lifestyle. Watching the ebb and flow of listings will educate you about market conditions. You can also gain a perspective on what your budget will buy in the new location, learn about the styles of homes that are available, and narrow down the neighborhoods you are interested in.

Photos and videos will play an important role, when included, to provide a more real-life view of homes and neighborhoods. Don’t be afraid to ask your REALTOR to take more photos and videos – I do lots of this with relocation clients.

USE A KNOWLEDGABLE & QUALIFIED REALTOR

Working with someone who knows the local area and market conditions is key. That agent must be someone who listens to your needs and who will be honest with you about the realities of the market in light of your needs, wishes and budget. A REALTOR who works with relocations, and one who has actually relocated a significant distance, will truly understand the issues you are facing and be able to give you some tips.

Ignore the media headlines and their reporting on the housing market - they don’t focus on local market conditions which vary dramatically even within communities. Your agent will (or should) have the local information you need to make the right decisions.

DUE DILIGENCE

Check out schools if they are important to you as they will likely define the neighborhoods you can consider. Visit community websites, and whatever else will help you become as knowledgeable as possible so you can decide where you want to live. Your REALTOR can be an awesome source of local information and should be able to direct you to additional resources for further information on questions that you have (e.g., schools, crime, parks).

STAY TUNED FOR PART 2