Buying Out of State? Here’s How to Find a (Really) Good Agent in a New Market
Whether you're relocating to the Grand Junction area or moving out of state, your move doesn't have to be nerve-racking. While many people don’t know where to begin, you can keep stress at bay with a few relocation tips AND a good agent by your side. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Start With Who You Know
You’ll be surprised at the connections and resources that your friends, family members and co-workers already have. When moving to an area, be sure to check with people you know and trust and ask who they would refer you to. If you already have an agent that you worked with in the past, she may be able to connect you to vetted long-distance moving companies, portable moving storage companies and if she is a part of a real estate referral network like we are in the Janice Burtis Team, she will be able to get you in contact with a trusted agent in the area you planning to move to.
2. Do Your Research
There's nothing worse than making plans to move to a place with certain expectations and being disappointed once everything is set in stone. The best way to combat disappointment is by doing your research before you make a move. While conducting your research of any new area, determine exactly what you are looking for in a neighborhood. Make a list of your priorities such as schools, recreation, safety, cost of living and especially take a look at the job market. Once you have a pretty good idea of what you're looking for, you can narrow down your search to house type, size and amenities. Working with relocation experts such as our team will help you make big decisions and get you closer to what you really want.
3. Use an Industry-Specific Referral Network to Guide You
The Janice Burtis Team is one of the only DRS Certified real estate agent teams in the Grand Valley. The DRS Agent Network helps connect physicians moving to new states or areas with vetted real estate agents. If you have a career in a booming field, there is a good chance there’s a similar referral network available as well. Check with your human resources department on what kind of connections they have in the area you are moving to.
4. Make an Appointment to Tour the Area
Once you’re referred to or get connected with a relocation specialist or Realtor, make an appointment to tour the area you're thinking of moving to. Your real estate agent should be an area expert, preferably having lived in that area for at least 10 years. Have them show you around the town so you can get a feel of your prospective new home. We suggest spending a minimum of a week in each new area you tour to get a feel of what it would be like living there.
Take into consideration the types of restaurants, traffic load, how long a commute you'll be making each day to and from work and if it's a nice place to raise a family or have pets. Are the people in this community those with whom you'd like to live with?
5. Secure Employment Before You Make a Move
Moving to a new area without securing your place of employment can be risky and unstable, especially if you are unsure of how you'll fit into that particular job market. Are your skills, service, profession or business needed in the area you're prospecting? If not, better start looking in an area that will guarantee the best scenario for your career. If working with a recruiter or human resources personnel, be sure to get your offer letter, before making an offer on a home or signing a lease.
6. Get Pre-Approved for Your Mortgage Loan
If you're planning to purchase a home in the area, it's best to get pre-qualified and pre-approved for a loan before looking at homes. This way, you know exactly what price range of homes you can afford and can come up with an offer that's likely to be accepted once that time comes. Find a lender who will work with your particular circumstance or one whose expertise is in relocation. If you're looking to relocate to Grand Junction, consider our preferred partners.
7. Make an Offer
Once you've walked through your top three homes, discussed the price with your significant others and Realtor, it's time to make an offer. Get this offer in writing and discuss any contingencies you may have. Talk over with your Realtor how to make an offer the seller won't refuse in any market.
Sure, relocating to a new area can be time-consuming and stressful, but not if you're prepared and know what to do. What's the most helpful tip in this article? Comment below and let us know!