3 Tips for a Successful Move to Arizona

If you live in the Northeast, Midwest, especially the Plains States, you’ve likely had your share of winter before it even reaches the official halfway point of the season.

Unless you are a cold weather and/or snow enthusiast, the idea of spending three to four months hibernating from the cold does not sound like tons of fun.

That said what if you could get away from the snow and cold for good? If the right opportunity came along, would you jump at it?

For some people, those opportunities do in fact arise from time to time.

Why the Grand Canyon State May Be for You

While Southern California may sound appealing for a permanent getaway, keep in mind how expensive many properties are there.

You could consider Florida, but do you want the humidity and the bugs, especially come summer?

For those searching for lower rents and less humidity, Arizona may be just the ticket.

Yes, the summers can be downright toasty, but just about everyone in the state has an air conditioner, with many residents opting for backyard pools too.

With that in mind, a move somewhere in Arizona will require some sound pre-planning, especially for those individuals and/or families coming from far away.

Along with setting up a job or jobs, individuals will need housing, transportation etc.

So, if Arizona is on your calendar for this year or the near future, will you make it a successful move?

Putting the Plans in Motion

So that you can plan for and deliver a successful move to Arizona, remember these tips:

1. Time of year – This factor unfortunately oftentimes gets overlooked. The time of year you move somewhere with extreme weather conditions part of the year is important. If you move to Phoenix or another populated area in Arizona in late May or early June, you could already begin to experience days where the thermometer nears or surpasses 100 degrees. If you want to get away from the cold, yet the idea of 100 degree or higher days doesn’t sound too appealing just yet, make the move there in the fall. By doing so, you can put off those really warm days for a number of months, yet still have comfortable temps throughout the wintertime;
2. Getting around – Unless you plan on bringing your present vehicle or vehicles with you on the move, how will you get around? Keep in mind that Phoenix and many other parts of the state have limited mass transit. As a result, many people use their vehicles and/or carpool together. If you think the time has come to ditch your current car or truck before your move, you could opt to visit a Phoenix BMW dealer or other car dealer. In purchasing a new car after you’ve arrived, you save the hassle of not only getting your vehicle to Arizona, but also make it easier when you need maintenance etc. by having a car purchased there. If you’re going to be living in a more outlying area of the state, consider the option of purchasing a truck. Various parts of Arizona prove to be rugged country, so cars won’t always be the best choice. Lastly, keep in mind that your car insurance rate will likely change, so be prepared for either an increase or decrease in what you presently pay.

Where Are You Going to Live?

3. Housing needs – Last but not least, don’t wait until the last minute to find a place to reside. Although the real estate market in Arizona (and specifically various cities and towns) fluctuates just as the rest of the country does, you don’t want to pay more than you have to for a property. If you plan on renting an apartment or house, also look into where properties are renting at the best prices. In the event a property rental sounds too good to be true, there is likely a reason or reasons for the low price. For example, if you want to move to Arizona this coming fall or closer to the holidays, going there for a week or so to scope out properties in late spring or early summer is not a bad move.

If the time has come to ditch the cold and snow, Arizona may be just what the doctor ordered.