From selling your existing home to finding a new place and everything in between, moving is no small task. Although it can be exciting, moving is an involved process and requires careful planning and thoughtful decision making. This is especially true if you’re moving to a new city, province or even country. 

If you’ve got an upcoming relocation, you’ve likely got a lot on your plate. However, by working with the right real estate agent, you can ensure your moving process is smooth and stress-free. 

Here are 5 must-ask questions when hiring an agent for your relocation. 

Moving to a new area? Check out our helpful relocation checklist here. 

1. Do You Specialize in Relocation Services?

If you’re moving to a new area, some real estate agents will be able to support you better than others. While working with an agent is always the best approach to buying or selling, some actually specialize in relocation services. Relocation specialists can answer questions a traditional agent can’t and provide other unique services to support your move. 

For instance, a relocation specialist can connect you with trusted local contractors who can help you make any desired upgrades to your new home. If you’ve worked with an agent in the past who doesn’t specialize in relocation, that’s ok. They can likely connect you with someone who does. 

Looking for more tips about relocating? Explore these helpful blog posts. 

• How to Sell Your Home Outside of Canada 
• How Real Estate Lawyers Facilitate Your Transaction
• What You Need to Know About Home Inspections

2 . How Can I Be Sure I’m Happy With My New Home?

One of the biggest challenges that can come with relocation is finding a great home. In a traditional move, you’re able to attend showings and open houses as part of the buying process. For relocators, this isn’t always the case.  

Beginning with the house hunting stage, a great agent will go the full nine yards to ensure you’re happy with your new home. From virtual tours to iGuides, videos and expansive locational and neighbourhood insights, they’ll help you feel confident in your house hunting journey.  

If this is something that you are particularly concerned about, talk to your agent. They may recommend moving into temporary housing for the first few months so you can have a relaxed buying process. 

3 . What if My Home Doesn’t Sell Before My Relocation Date?

Even in high-demand markets such as Ontario, homes can take longer to sell than expected. If you’ve got a relocation date on the horizon, it may feel like you’ve got a hard deadline to sell your home. In reality, your home staying on the market after your relocation isn’t the end of the world. However, it’s important to ask how a potential agent can help should this happen. 

With a full-scope approach to the listing process, your agent can ensure your home is well-marketed, and coordinate open houses and showings in your absence. By working with the right agent you can reduce stress and focus on enjoying your move. 

4. What if I Can’t Find a New Home Before I Move?

While the market is slowly balancing out, finding the perfect home in time for your move isn’t always easy. One common anxiety many relocators face is whether or not they’ll find a great home before their moving date.

Each circumstance is unique, however, a great agent will be able to offer guidance if you find yourself in this situation. This usually involves finding temporary rental housing or other non-permanent accommodations. Then, once you’ve arrived in your new city they can connect you with local support to continue your home search. 

Moving to the Ottawa area? Explore some of our neighbourhood guides.

• Stonebridge Neighbourhood Guide
• What to Know About Riverside South
• An Introduction to Kemptville

5. What Are the Housing Trends in My New City?

As a homeowner, your property is likely your largest asset. Therefore, it’s important that your real estate agent understands the housing landscape within your new city to help you make the most out of your investment. 

For example, if you anticipate moving again in the next few years, it’s important to know if housing prices are trending upwards or downwards. Not only can this prevent you from overpaying for your home, but it can also support your long-term financial planning. 

Relocating soon? Whether you’re looking for trusted agents in the Ottawa area, or need resources for other markets, we can help! Contact Us.