Turn to Washington’s Coldwell Banker affiliate, CB Bain, for the answers to your questions about relocating to or from the Pacific Northwest. Below are answers to some of your relocation questions. For more information about relocating to Washington, please call us at 1-800-256-9702 or email relocation@cbbain.com.
Q. How long before my move should I begin my new home search?
A. It typically takes between 30 and 45 days to find the home you want to purchase and then get the keys. The time you spend searching depends on your intended move date. You may choose to search Washington real estate for sale in one trip or revisit certain neighborhoods a number of times before you finally settle on the home and community of your dreams – from Gig Harbor or Puyallup to Renton or Issaquah WA. It may take you less time to find a home if you plan on renting rather than buying. We suggest you start searching the Washington Multiple Listing Service at least three months before you intend to move.
Q. How do I know which communities host the best schools in the area?
A. Everyone has a different idea about what makes up a good school as well as what educational programs your own children will thrive in. At Coldwell Banker Bain, we offer resources to local school information, test scores and other statistics. State websites are helpful places to look for educational information, but we also suggest meeting with school personnel to determine which Western Washington school district is most suitable for your children. CB Bain relocation specialists also offer one-on-one counseling to help you determine which school system best suits your family.
Q. How do I know how much I can afford when searching for a new home?
A. Generally, your monthly payment for mortgage principal and interest, property taxes and property insurance should not exceed one-third of your gross monthly income. You should also consider your debt-to-income ratio when estimating your monthly payment on a new home.
Q. How will the cost of living differ in my new community after I move?
A. Our complimentary relocation package provides information about cost of living expenses, including differences in housing, products and services. We will also arm you with information about local school districts, cultural attractions, recreation, entertainment and Seattle, Washington neighborhood information.
Q. What relocation services do you offer people moving overseas?
A. Our relocation specialists will help your family relocate and settle in to another country by advising on how to obtain tax identification numbers, open bank accounts and enroll your children in their new schools. We can also introduce you to area counselors who can help alleviate any problems you or your family members may experience while adjusting to your new environment.
Q. What is the best way to pay for a transferee’s relocation expenses: direct reimbursement or a lump sum payment?
A. Both options have their own advantages, depending on whether you or your relocating employee prefer to assume more responsibility during their move to Washington. Direct reimbursement will provide you with more precise expense information, while a lump sum payment provides the employee with funds to directly manage and pay expenses.
Keywords:
Relocating to Washington, Washington Real Estate For Sale, Washington Multiple Listing Service, Seattle Washington Neighborhood
