Question to ask before relocating to a new town or city

Having recently compiled an interesting report on “Where buyers come from”, which also examines how buyers relocate, we thought it was a good time to discuss what questions we should ask before moving to a new area.

Whilst moving to a new town or city can be an exciting and rewarding experience, you’ll also be facing the unknowns of starting fresh in a new place. There are several reasons you may be moving, whether it’s for job opportunities, a lifestyle change, retirement, better education, the cost of living or to be closer to family or friends.

No matter where you are relocating to and for whatever reason, the whole experience can be expensive, exhausting, and sometimes a bit overwhelming. But with the right preparation, you can make the entire process a lot easier. Start by asking yourself a few key questions before you move, and you’ll be on the right track!

What to ask yourself before relocating to a new town or city

1. What is the cost of living in the area?

One of the first things to understand before relocating is the cost of living in the new area. How does the cost of utilities, council tax, parking fees, commuting, groceries and leisure facilities compare to where you currently live? Council tax can vary significantly by region, so look up council tax rates for the specific area on the local council’s website. Check the ESPC house price report for information on current property prices in the region you plan to move to.

2. How are the schools in the area?

If you have children or plan to start a family once you have moved to a new town or school, it’s a good idea to know more about the education options there. Is there a good choice of primary and secondary schools, and how do they perform. It’s also worth checking the Education Scotland website for up-to-date school inspection reports. If your child is already old enough to attend, visiting the schools in person is also sound advice.

3. What is the job market like in the town or city?

Although you may be settled in a job that won’t be hugely affected by relocating to a new town or city, it’s a good idea to understand what job opportunities exist in the region. Searching job listing websites can help you gauge what the job market is like, and what industries are thriving in the local area.

4. What is the neighbourhood like?

If you have your sights set on a particular neighbourhood, there are lots of things to consider before making the move. Is the area safe and welcoming? What is the sense of community? What amenities are nearby, such as supermarkets, restaurants, parks, and public transport links? Are there family-friendly areas or quiet suburbs? Visiting the area at different times of day, joining local community groups on social media channels and checking Police Scotland updates on the area will help you get a feel for the neighbourhood.

5. What kind of healthcare facilities are available?

Another important aspect of relocating is healthcare facilities. It’s important to know how close you will live to GP surgeries and NHS hospitals. If you need specialist or private healthcare, are there options in your new place of residence? Use the NHS website to search for local GP surgeries and hospitals, and Google searches to find specialist healthcare providers and dental surgeries.

6. How are public transport and commute times?

If a move to another town or city means you need to rely on public transport or face a longer commute, you need to factor this into your decision to move. Understanding how reliable the transport network is and how well connected your new town is to your workplace is an important question to ask before relocating. You can answer many of these questions by route planning on Google Maps and checking your options on local transport providers such as ScotRail or Stagecoach Buses, along with local transport services. Drivers should ensure to research congestion zones and parking permit rules in the area.

What kind of outdoor or recreational activities are available?

Moving to a new town or city can open you up to new opportunities but can also shut the door on some of your favourite hobbies. It’s useful to check what leisure facilities, gyms, sports groups and outdoor activities are available in the area. Using the local council’s website or a quick Google search will help you find the answer.

7. What are the cultural and entertainment options?

Depending on what you like to do in your spare time, you should figure out what your new area can offer in terms of entertainment and culture. Are there theatres, music venues, museums, and galleries? How is the local restaurant and pub scene? Are there festivals or community events throughout the year? All very important questions, especially if you enjoy getting out and about. Check out city-specific guides like Time Out or Tripadvisor for cultural highlights and local events and join social media groups to understand the vibe of your new town.

Ready to start your property search?

If you are ready to make the move to a new town or city, ESPC can help you at every stage of your property purchase journey. From services to help you sell your home to advice on buying, mortgages and moving, we are here every step of the way.