Guest Post by Laurie Abner

Moving to a new state can be full of excitement and anticipation. Whether it’s for work or family or just because you want a change, the planning you do now will really pay off once you get to your new home.

Narrowing the Search

Start by researching the area in which you will be living in. Check out things like traffic patterns, climate differences, cost of living, and housing availability.

Contacting a real estate agent or leasing agent before you move will help you plan things like your budget, areas of town you can afford, the different school systems, parks, access to shopping and restaurants, and business opportunities for the neighborhoods you’re researching.

A popular choice for many people is Washington State. Celebrated for its business and innovation, drawing in giants like Microsoft, Amazon, Expedia, Boeing, and, of course, Starbucks, it is becoming popular for people wanting to start their own businesses. Areas west of the Cascades in Washington include cool summers and moderate winters, while Eastern Washington is an arid and relatively dry climate.

There is no state income tax in Washington, but you can expect to pay more than the national average in sales taxes. Seattle is the priciest city in the state with the average home price being $859,000

Gig Harbor, WA, near Tacoma, is known for its spectacular waterfront and its breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. Homes there sell quickly in that highly competitive market so get in touch with the experienced professional at The Lee Team who can help you find and close on your dream home before it gets snapped up.

Open for Business

Starting a new business in a new state can be difficult, as there are many different regulations and procedures to go through. Use the ZenBusiness guide on How to Start a Business that can be a roadmap for you to follow to ensure you’re not leaving any important steps out like your business strategy, and structure or the permits you’ll need.

Create a state-specific business plan that includes market research for your new city and state. Include a summary of your sales and marketing strategy, and how you’ll implement them with an operating plan. You can hire a professional business plan writer in your area or create your own using an online template that will not only walk you through the process but allow you to update frequently as your business changes.

Making it Feel Like Home

Once you’ve settled into your new home or apartment, you’ll want to personalize it right away. It’s easy to feel alone and off-balance when you’ve moved to a different state, so having personal touches can make you feel more at home.

If you’re buying all new furniture, check out the local markets before using big chain retailers. Local sellers are more likely to have unique, area-specific items that will blend well with your new surroundings.

Instead of plain walls, consider wallpaper for some of them to add a special feel to the room. Look at peel-and-stick options. Peel-and-stick wallpaper has adhesive backing for easy application, and if the peel and stick wallpaper needs to be repositioned or removed, don’t worry, it doesn’t leave residue behind, which is ideal if you're renting. You can choose from a huge variety of unique designs or upload and order your own custom design.

Don’t forget insurance for your new home either. Homeowner’s insurance only covers damage to your home's structure, theft of belongings, and injuries that happen on your property. If you want a homeowners warranty for appliances and more, you'll need to invest in a home warranty. This is an annually renewable contract that can cover breakdowns to your heating, cooling, electrical, and plumbing systems, along with covering appliance repairs. Before choosing a home warranty company, be sure to read reviews to find a policy that fits your needs and budget.

Every state has its own individual characteristics and what a person looks for in the new state will vary. Wherever you move, keep in mind that it takes about five years for a new place to feel like home. Give yourself time and soon you’ll feel like a real native.