Do’s and Don’ts for Planning Relocation to Charleston, SC

When companies need to move employees who are also homeowners, they have to make the transition as painless as possible (or risk losing a valued asset). UrbanBound is a Chicago-based professional relocation group who know the landscape. “Even the most hands-on HR departments in the world can have too much on their plates to give relocation the attention it needs,” they point out. Thus the $16 billion relocation industry!

If you’re contemplating a relocation to Charleston, SC any time soon, even without the services of a specialist, there’s much we can learn from the do’s and don’ts they offer. Here are some key don’ts:

Don’t Underestimate the Commute

If relocation to the Charleston Area will find you entering unfamiliar territory, don’t rely on MapQuest to tell you how long your drive to work will be. Take a serious look at public transportation, too, as you choose where you want to live in relation to your new job.

Don’t Overestimate the Raise

When you are relocating, the difference between a $30,000 and $45,000 salary (or even $70,000 and $100,000) might actually amount to a decrease in real earnings. When you’re considering cost of living differences for a relocation to or from Charleston, don’t be tempted to stop at the obvious living expenses, like housing and food. Will you be doing more holiday traveling to visit those you left behind? Will the kids wind up in private schools if available public schools aren’t up to snuff? You’re looking for all cost differences…which can go the other way, too!

Don’t Ignore Key Findings

The experts mention (politely) that not only do you have to do the research; you also have to accept the results. School quality really can vary. Even noise quality can be a factor that drives location. Best practice? Find out what people have to say about where they live, good and bad. When you plan a Charleston, SC relocation carefully, you’ll take advantage of your new opportunity while avoiding common oversights. And if relocation is in your future, I’m here to help you find the right — and practical — new place to call home.

Interested in selling your Charleston area home? Visit: www.jeffcookrealestate.com

Interested in buying a Charleston area home? Visit: www.discovercharlestonareahomes.com

-Jeff Cook

Jeff Cook Real Estate

Charleston, SC