There are various reasons why you might feel the need to up sticks and move to the other side of the country. It could be that it’s a requirement for your job (or your partner’s), or that the location offers a better lifestyle for you and your family. Whatever the reason, it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly or rushed into, and you’ll need to researching the prospective new location in depth.
#1 Different areas
As you’ll be looking to move to a totally new location, you’ll need to look closely at the different areas available to you. Real estate agents may be able to help you choose the best area, but remember that their main prerogative is to sell the properties on their books and get their commission.
So, in addition to speaking to these people, you should also spend some time in the locations you’re considering to see if they’re good enough. If feasible, walk around the various neighborhoods at different times of the day, and different days of the week. Just because it’s calm and quiet at a certain time on one day, it doesn’t mean that it’s like that all the time.
#2 Local education
As you have a growing family, you’ll also need to consider the local education. This can mean initially performing specific internet searches such as looking at best schools Bath and drawing up a shortlist of the ones that offer the right environment for your children. When you’ve done this, the next stage is to book a visit at each one to get a feel of it and speak to the headteacher (and any available teachers) face to face.
You won’t just be looking for the best school to send your children to, but also one where they’ll fit in and adapt quickly to their new surroundings and teaching schedules.
#3 Transport links
If you’re thinking of giving your children some freedom in getting to and from school, then you’re going to have to think about transport links if the schools aren’t a walkable distance from your home. It’s important to note that not every child uses the school bus, and you may find that your children need to use public transport in the form of a bus or train to get them to their school on time.
#4 Community clubs and associations
It’s important to understand the role that a community plays with regards clubs and associations. It’s likely that when you relocate, you and your family won’t know anyone in your new area. This can make the move very difficult, especially if you’re a naturally sociable family. Getting involved in your new community and joining clubs (both you and your kids) could help you to settle in and make new friends far quicker than if you don’t.
#5 Essential amenities
You’ll also have to check out the amenities that are on offer to you in the location you’re thinking of moving to. Wi-Fi speeds can differ, which can be frustrating if you’re used to the extremely fast Wi-Fi that’s available in a large city and then move into a small village that is yet to have this installed.
This frustration may not just stop at the Wi-Fi either. If you’re used to having large shopping malls or convenience stores within walking distance, then moving to an area that’s out of town or in a small village may also bring a culture shock. This is because you’ll probably find that to go anywhere or get anything done, you’ll have to jump in the car or rely on public transport.
#6 Work prospects
If you’re relocating because either you or your partner needs to for their job, it’s likely that the other person will have to find new employment after the move has happened. Moving to an area like Bath, for instance, which is large, and thriving, could open many career paths up for you. However, moving to a far smaller community could see your ambitions stunted and your work options very limited.
It’s important to look into the local job opportunities when thinking about the area you’re going to relocate to so you know what’s on the horizon in terms of your earning capabilities at your new location.
#7 Entertainment options
As mentioned briefly above, different locations offer varying benefits. A rural retreat will be just that. Lovely calm countryside and lots of fresh air, but very little by way of entertainment, shops, or perhaps even schools. Whereas a vibrant city such as Bath can offer a host of entertainment options, shops, and schools that are virtually on your doorstep.
Before you take the plunge, you need to work out what your new home and location will need to provide to keep all members of your family happy and contented for the years to come.
