How to Find an Apartment and Plan Your Relocation for a Job

How to Find an Apartment and Plan Your Relocation for a Job

June 16, 2017

Relocating for a job can be extremely stressful. You must plan to leave your old job and city behind while setting up your new life in your new location. This can leave you with a lengthy to-do list.

One of the first things you’ll want to do when you secure a new job is find a new apartment or home. However, if you’re moving far away, this can be incredibly tricky. 

One recommended path to pursue would be to research luxury long term furnished apartments. Imagine not having to stress over moving your furniture across the country or purchasing new furniture if you move abroad. This will not only save you money but time too, and you will be able to focus your precious time on other important matters.

To make the transition of relocating for a new job as smooth as possible, here are a few steps you should consider.

1. Start Early

Finding your new home probably isn’t going to be easy. There are a lot of steps and considerations to consider when you’re looking for luxury apartments or two bedroom townhomes. If you wait until the last minute, you may not be able to move in at the right time.

It is best to start looking for a new apartment as soon as you know you’ll be moving. This can ensure you get exactly what you want without needing to compromise.

2. Check out Online Listings

Online listings make it easy for you to understand what you can afford in your new location. You can get a chance to explore the different areas virtually and pick a few apartments like studio or two bedroom apartments you’d like to see in real life.

Be sure to browse online to get a full understanding of what you may be able to live in. However, it is important to be aware of scams when checking out online listings. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

3. Know Your Details

Make a list of questions you’d like to ask the property manager or realtor who you’re working with. Because you need to move quickly, you don’t have a large window to think through your decisions. Having your list of questions ready to go can make the process much smoother.

You’ll want to consider some of the basics, such as the cost of rent, what is included in that price and whether pets are allowed in the building. You’ll also want to think about some other things, such as the amenities of the building, its safety and security and what kind of application process is required.

4. Ask for Advice

While your property manager or realtor can give you some idea of the neighborhoods you’re looking at, they may not know exactly what you’re looking for. This means you may end up in an area that you don’t really love. Instead of relying only on their opinion, expand your network and ask other individuals familiar with the area.

If you have friends or family members — no matter how distanced they may seem — reach out and ask what neighborhoods or areas you may want to consider. Because they know you better and know your lifestyle, they may be able to help you make a better selection.

If you don’t know anyone personally, jump on social media or even a forum related to the city. This can give you a better understanding of perspectives and opinions.

5. Schedule Your Visit

It usually isn’t a good idea to rent an apartment until you see it. Scheduling a visit is crucial for ensuring you get the house you’re expecting. It can give you a better understanding of the neighborhood, safety and surroundings before you sign a lease.

If you’re unable to make a visit yourself, ask a friend or family member in the area to go on the tour. Be sure they’re someone you trust and they know what you’re looking for in an apartment.

6. Don’t Jump Too Fast

Because you need to get your apartment before you move, you’re probably feeling quick to jump at the first thing you see in your budget. Unless you need to move in a week, this is never a good idea. You may end up regretting it and feeling unhappy or uncomfortable in your own home.

If you feel like you don’t have enough time to properly look for an apartment, see if your company will provide you with a hotel stipend during your move. This will allow you to start your new job and look for a new apartment at the same time. You can also consider subletting or signing a short-term lease.

7. Be Prepared to Sign

Once you find the apartment you’ve been looking for, you need to be ready to sign. Not acting quickly enough could mean you lose the apartment, putting you back at square one.

Be ready with bank statements, an application, references and other details that you may need. If you’re working with a realtor, ask what they will need from you before you meet with them.

Finding the right apartment for your relocation involves some planning and commitment. Follow these steps and you’ll get your dream apartment to go with your new dream job.

Sarah Landrum graduated from Penn State with degrees in Marketing and PR. Now, she's a freelance writer and career blogger sharing advice on navigating the work world and achieving happiness and success in your career.