7 Things Bay Area Home Sellers Should Seriously Consider Before Relocating

Homes in our area are selling fast and for what appears to be amazing prices, and many of the sellers whose homes I list for sale are moving out of the area. Selling a home and moving to a lower cost area where your dollars stretch so much further  might seem rather easy right now, but there are many things you should consider before settling on any particular location. These are just a few of them.

1. Are you planning to move to an area where you have only vacationed?

Some places are better as a vacation destination than a permanent home. Have you spent enough time in your desired destination to fully understand the pros and cons? Some places are idyllic at certain times of year but not so great in other times.

2. Is there available inventory for rent or sale?

Even in a more affordable area, it may be a hot market and there could be challenges in getting an offer on a home accepted in your planned timescale. It’s probably a good idea to rent at first anyway, particularly if you don’t kno it well, just so you can find your feet in your new location.

3. What are the schools like?

Even if you don’t have children, homes in areas with good schools will likely appreciate better than other areas. And if you are moving to an area with lots of new residential construction, the schools may soon be stretched to capacity.

4. What is the cost of living like?

It’s likely that some evryday costs will be higher and some will be lower. Before committing to mve to a new area, always plan for the likely energy costs and property taxes. Even insurance costs can vary significantly from one part of the country to another.

5. Health Care Considerations

Particularly if you are retiring to a new area, access to quality health care will be a major consideration. It’s essential to know what your options will be for doctors and dentists, as well as the proximity of medical offices and hospitals before taking the leap.

6. Are there relevant employment opportunities?

You may be moving to an area where you can work remotely for your present employer, but what if that is not always the case. If you are of working age, local job opportunities should be another factor to consider at this time.

7. How is the local economy doing?

The pandemic has changed the face of many of our towns and villages and more changes may be on the way. If it’s over a year since you visited the area, now would be a good time to bring yourself up to date.