Moving: 3 tips to help you settle into a new town
16 Nov 2023
Cross country and cross city moves have become increasingly popular with the widespread adoption of remote and hybrid work options. But, when moving into a new geographic territory, it can take homeowners some time to settle into their new surroundings.
According to the latest census data, the Western Cape became the third most populated province, moving from fifth spot in 1996 to third place in 2022. “A lot of this cross-country movement can be attributed to the many homeowners who are now actively seeking out areas that might be better suited to their lifestyle needs,” explains Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.
Whatever the reason for the long-distance move, RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares a few tips to help homeowners settle into new surroundings.
Get out and explore
To help you feel more connected to your new community, make an effort to regularly get out of the house and to familiarise yourself with nearby parks, shops, and restaurants. It also helps to integrate yourself within the local community as soon as you can – not only for social reasons, but also to get the inside scoop on hidden gems within the area. To meet new people, attend local events which can be found by joining community groups on social media, and strike up conversations with neighbours and your new colleagues.
Stay informed
When you’re new to an area, consuming local news can be a helpful way of understanding the local politics and main concerns of the community. Subscribe to the local newspaper, listen to the local community radio stations, and join online community forums to keep up to date with the latest news and information.
Create new routines
Forming new routines can often prove very useful to combat the feeling of being unsettled. As soon as you can, start creating a new routine for you and your household, being sure to incorporate your favourite activities wherever possible. This can include finding a new gym or a local coffee shop that you pass every day on the way to dropping the children at school. Not only can the new routine provide a sense of stability, but it might also help you become more familiar with your new town.
“Settling into a new town can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience. Whether you've moved for a job opportunity or simply for a change of scenery, adapting to a new environment can be easier when you have a local real estate expert to lean on for guidance. As well-connected individuals within their local communities, real estate agents can often provide the necessary contacts and connections to help new homeowners get plugged into their new environments,” he says.
An article published on Property24 on May 25, 2022, features Ana Roberts of Just Property Upper Highway, who explains that another great benefit of downscaling is that small spaces require less furniture - a few great statement pieces allow for simple, minimalist décor and a beautiful, welcoming home at a fraction of the cost of furnishing a big house. And the cleaning is a breeze!
Less clutter equals less stress, and isn’t that what we are all looking for now?
Tips for cosy-home hunting:
Location, location, location - You want to remain close to your family and friends, and have ease of access to stores and other amenities such as doctors, hospitals etc. Narrow your search to areas that tick these boxes.
What are your deal breakers? Does the home offer the main assets that are important to you, for example, a good kitchen, nice family space, shower etc?
Current wants vs future needs - If you are downsizing because the children have moved out and you are getting older, consider a single story with the ease of access rather than a property with stairs that may cause a problem later.
Growing pains - Will you be able to handle the upkeep of a big garden, or is it time for something smaller that is more manageable? Will your pets cope with a smaller space; is there somewhere nearby where you could walk them?
Fit for purpose - Will your favourite furniture fit in the new space? Make a list of every piece with which you can’t part. Take measurements. Then take a tape measure with you when you start narrowing down your list of potential new homes.
Storage war - Is there enough cupboard space in the bedrooms and the kitchen? Do you need outside storage too?
Peace of mind - Check the security features of each property you visit. Find out how safe the area is and what security is available. Ask the neighbours, chat to the local police, and phone a security company that focuses on the neighbourhood.
Guest appeal - Consider how many bedrooms you will need going forward - if your kids have all moved out of home, you may only need one spare room for when they or your friends come to stay.
Paper trails - Remember to ask for compliance certificates, even those that aren't required in your province (for example, gas installations and solar geysers should come with a compliance certificate - if something goes wrong and you don't have one, your insurers may refuse to replace the geyser, or cover damage caused by a gas issue).
Complex questions - If you are moving into a complex or an apartment, be aware that there may be the added expense of levies, clubhouse fees and/or security. Ask about historical escalation rates and request a copy of the body corporate rules (if applicable.)
Ask your neighbours if there are any noise issues, does sound travel through the walls and ceiling? How old is the plumbing, the lifts etc - upgrading such items is very expensive and you’ll have to contribute. What parking is available for guests?
Excerpt from P24 