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Relocating to another city and searching for a house.

By: Michael Perantonis 2023


It is easy to become overwhelmed by all of the options available, especially when you are looking to rent a house in another city or even another country. There is a lot to think about, from location to neighborhood to amenities.
 Everything may seem unknown and difficult. However, by prioritizing what you need and desire, you can reduce your search and simplify the decision-making process.
 Here are six stages to help you make the move as smooth as possible.

1. First make a list. Start by making a list of all the features you would like your home to have. Include both must-haves (e.g., a good school district) and nice-to-haves (e.g., a fenced-in backyard). This 15 items-list will help you create a list of your own criteria that you can use to narrow your search.
1. Location
2. Budget
3. Size
4. Number of bedrooms
5. Number of bathrooms
6. Garage/Parking
7. Age of the house
8. Energy efficiency
9. Lot size
10. Yard/Outdoor space
11. Proximity to schools
12. Proximity to transportation
13. Proximity to shops and restaurants
14. Accessibility to amenities (e.g. parks, pools, etc.)
15. Neighborhood safety

2. Rank the items. Once you have made your list, rank each item in terms of importance. This will help you determine which features are most important to you and which are less important.

3. Consider your budget. Your budget is a major factor when it comes to house hunting. Consider how much you can realistically afford before you start looking at houses.

4. Explore remotely the local housing market: To get an understanding of what is available, we recommend 6 ways to explore a foreign housing market from a distance in order to relocate there soon.

1. Research online resources for real estate listings in the area.
2. Utilize virtual tours and videos to get a better understanding of the housing market.
3. Connect with expats in the area to get their opinion and advice.
4. Talk to local real estate agents and brokers to discuss the market.
5. Review the economic and demographic data of the area.
6. Ask to attend online meetings hosted by real estate experts.

5. Contact a real estate professional. A real estate agent can provide great assistance by being familiar with the local market and helping you find the ideal home for your needs and budget.
Ask them to prepare a schedule for a preliminary visit to the country, which should include home viewings and an orientation tour of prime residential areas to get to know community features and facilities. They can also provide previews of suitable schooling options and schedule school visits.

6. Make a preliminary visit: here are 9 items that could be included in a schedule for a preliminary visit to the country for home search:

1. Arrive in the country and check into accommodations
2. Tour neighborhoods and prime residential areas with the real estate agent
3. Visit local amenities such as parks, community centers, and shopping areas
4. Make school visits and preview suitable schooling options
5. View a selection of homes that meet your criteria
6. Learn about the local laws and regulations related to buying or renting property
7. Schedule follow-up appointments with the real estate agent for further viewings and negotiations
8. Meet with the landlord in case of rental or a mortgage broker or bank to discuss financing options, in case of purchase.
9. Meet with a lawyer or legal advisor to discuss any legal issues related to property purchase or rental.
Of course, the specific items on the schedule may vary depending on individual needs and preferences, as well as the location and culture of the country being visited.

7. Take your time: Do not rush into a purchase or rental. Take your time and explore your options, and let your instincts guide you to the right decision.

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