As exciting as it might be to think about starting over in a new city or an entirely new country, it can also be very terrifying—a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Perhaps you’re considering accepting a promotion, making a career switch, or just starting over. Whatever your reason, something is pushing you to take a huge leap, making one of the biggest changes in your life. Whether you’ve lived your whole life in one country or you love to travel, you need to ask yourself some big questions before you take the plunge, the answers to which are of vital importance.

Analyze the job opportunity

Think carefully and thoroughly about the job opportunity. Are there similar opportunities where you currently live? Is there something about your current home that’s pushing you to want to leave? Are you really willing to give up everything you’re leaving behind—friends, family, home, and partner? How secure is this job you’re moving for? Is it permanent or temporary? What if it doesn’t work out? How would you feel? Do you have a backup plan? Can you see yourself living where the new job is? Will you be able to afford the cost of living in this new place? Is it higher or lower than you’re accustomed to? Are you open to embracing the new culture?

Research the job opportunity before you accept it

Is the role a brand new one, or was there someone in it before you? Why did your predecessor leave the job? This information is very important because it will help guide your decision to accept the role or not. If your predecessor left out of dissatisfaction with any aspect of the job, it would be wise to know. There are sites like LinkedIn or Glassdoor where employees can rate and review their employers. You’ll be amazed at how helpful these could be. Will your new employer cover relocation expenses for you and your family? What determines your success in the role? Are there any clauses in the contract for early termination? If you’re moving with your family, it is even more important to know the answers to all of these questions because not only will you be uprooting yourself, but you’ll also be uprooting them.

Research the new location

The best way to research a new city before moving there is by talking to the people who currently live there or used to live there. They’ll have the most up-to-date and valuable information for you. If you know anyone from the area you’re heading to, like friends or relatives, it’s a good idea to reach out to them. Even if they live in a nearby town, they might have some valuable insights about the area that you should know. If you’re moving to a new office for work, it’s a good idea to reach out to some of your coworkers who are already there. They can give you some helpful advice about the city and the process of relocating. Nothing beats hearing about someone’s personal experiences and getting firsthand accounts when it comes to learning about a city. City guides can be helpful, but there’s just something special about hearing stories straight from the source.

Discuss the move with your family

Relocating abroad for work as a single person is a lot simpler than doing it with a family. With a family, it is imperative that you discuss the move with them. You need to know how this move will affect your partner’s career. What if he or she doesn’t find work? This will definitely bring up other issues. They will be unhappy and have no support network. The move will also affect your kids, so you need to ensure that you conduct all the necessary research about local schools before you decide to relocate.

Sell or rent out your existing property

Whether your relocation is short- or long-term, you may want to think about selling or renting out your current home to avoid any loss of potential earnings due to a vacant property. By renting out your home, you can earn extra money and have something to fall back on when you get home. However, selling the house can free you from the burden of property management while you’re away and provide you with a lump payment that will come in handy for your transition. Whatever you decide, Leadar’s extensive database of business contacts can help you find a real estate agent who can help you bring either of your options into play. 

Understand your financial options

Some businesses offer relocation assistance, and in some cases, they can even arrange a new job for your spouse. Get in touch with upper management to discuss your options. Think carefully about your choices. Short excursions to look for a new place to live might be covered, for instance. Although not all businesses will lend a hand, you could try bargaining for better terms. Find out how much moving will cost you. Provide management with these approximate projections as proof of where the money is going. By doing so, you increase the likelihood that they will compensate you for your expenses.

Find out the cost of living

You should look into the local cost of living to see if it is lower or higher than where you currently are. Although salary increases are common when an employee is moving to a more expensive region, they are not always implemented. Make adjustments to your strategy and budget once you have a firm grasp on the magnitude of the price shift. If you want to buy a house but can’t quite afford it right now, renting instead may be a good option while you save up for a down payment. Your coworkers may also have suggestions for less expensive areas you can explore.

Final Thoughts

If you and your family are up for the adventure, moving for a new job opportunity can be an amazing experience for all of you. As long as you do your homework before accepting the employment offer, everything can work out for the best.