What to know when moving to a new suburb

Moving to a new suburb can be an exciting but challenging experience. It’s essential to prepare and gather information to make the transition smoother.

Here are some things to know and consider when moving to a new suburb:

Research the Suburb:

  • Learn about the suburb’s demographics, crime rates, and safety.
  • Investigate the local economy, job opportunities, and the cost of living.
  • Explore the neighborhood’s amenities like parks, schools, hospitals, and shopping centers.

Housing Market:

  • Understand the housing market trends in the new suburb, including property prices and rental rates.
  • Research the availability of different housing types, such as apartments, houses, or condos.
  • Work with a local real estate agent to find suitable housing options.

Commute and Transportation:

  • Consider your daily commute to work or school and assess the availability of public transportation.
  • Check traffic patterns, parking options, and proximity to major roads or highways.
  • Evaluate the walkability and bike-friendliness of the area if those are important to you.
A tram travelling along Melbourne’s road.

Local Services:

  • Find out about the availability of essential services such as healthcare facilities, post offices, and banks.
  • Research nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and other convenience stores for daily necessities.

Community and Activities:

  • Explore local community organizations, clubs, and recreational activities that align with your interests.
  • Attend neighborhood meetings or join online forums to connect with residents and gather insights.

Safety and Security:

  • Look into the neighborhood’s safety records and crime statistics.
  • Consider installing security measures in your new home, such as alarms and security cameras if necessary.

Budget and Cost of Living:

  • Create a budget that accounts for housing costs, utilities, groceries, and other expenses specific to the suburb.
  • Research local taxes, including property taxes, to understand your financial obligations.

Schools and Education:

  • Research local schools, both public and private, and their performance ratings.
  • Consider the availability of preschools, daycares, and extracurricular activities for children.
  • Visit schools and speak with parents in the area to get a sense of the education system.
Balwyn_High_School
Balwyn High School is one of the largest secondary schools in Victoria.

Local Regulations:

  • Familiarize yourself with local regulations, zoning laws, and homeowner association rules if applicable.
  • Check for any upcoming development projects or construction that may affect your neighborhood.

Visit Before Moving:

  • If possible, visit the suburb multiple times before the move to get a feel for the area and its atmosphere.
  • Explore different parts of the suburb to understand its diversity and character.

Seek Recommendations:

  • Ask friends, family, or colleagues who live in the area for recommendations and insights.
  • Read online reviews and forums to gather opinions from current residents.

Plan Your Move:

  • Organize your move well in advance, including hiring movers, packing, and notifying necessary parties of your change of address.
  • Update your official documents and subscriptions with your new address.

Indeed, finding a new home can be an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience. It’s a significant life event that often marks the start of a new chapter in your life. Moving to a new suburb involves thorough research and planning to ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible. Take your time to gather information and make informed decisions that align with your lifestyle and preferences.

Where to get help

Looking for the perfect suburb that makes moving homes all the more appealing?At Crest Property Investments we specialise in sourcing brand new and off the plan properties for buyers. We also do not charge fees to buyers! We would welcome the opportunity to help with your property purchase.

Our YouTube channel and Market Insights are also a great place to gain more tips. They provide a wealth of information to assist you with many areas relating to property.
While we have taken care to ensure the information above is true and correct at the time of publication, changes in circumstances and legislation after the displayed date may impact the accuracy of this article. If you want to learn more please contact us. We welcome the opportunity to assist you.
September 2023

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