Tips for Relocating

1. Work with a Realtor

No one loves this beautiful state more than our Arkansas dwelling associates at Ascend Real Estate. Partnering with a relocation specialist at Ascend can save you time, and money in travel expenses by tapping into a local’s tried and true perspective of the area.

Here are some ways an Ascend Agent can help:

Ascend associates know the territory well. They can help find the best neighborhood for your budget and needs.
Your agent can help you find the best schools with nearby housing, and you can verify the information on websites like GreatSchools.org. (greatschools.org)
Check out Google Maps (www.maps.google.com) several times a day to view the routes that are red and get estimated travel times. Ascend agents are the best source to discuss commuting because they know the best streets to take and avoid during rush hour and can give you a better understanding of the map.
When you are discussing houses and neighborhoods with a local Ascend agent, hop onto Instant Street View to explore. (instantstreetview.com)
Ascend agents live and work in Arkansas communities. Our agents can help you find homes close to the things that are important to you and that you enjoy doing such as the best restaurants, recreational activities, vacation spots, sports, activities, nightlife, entertainment, shopping, and so much more.
If you are concerned about safety in neighborhoods, your agent can direct you toward local public crime rates that you can double-check on NeighborhoodScout.(www.neighborhoodscout.com)

2. Know the Differences in Cost of Living

Arkansas is a popular state, not only for its natural beauty but also for the cost of living which tends to be lower than many areas in the nation. Check out this cost-of-living calculator (www.bankrate.com/real-estate/cost-of-living-calculator) and see how much of a difference moving to Arkansas can make for your housing, transportation, food, clothing, utilities, and everything else.

Your agent will be well aware of Arkansas’ property, sales, and income tax and can direct you to tax professionals to help you be better prepared.

If you run your own business, your Ascend agent can put you in contact with the proper authorities to set up a business license and Arkansas sales tax.

3. Save Extra Money for Moving

Moving is challenging and expenses can add up. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Moving truck gas/diesel expenses of up to $8.00 per gallon can be charged if you don’t return it with a full tank.
Mileage overage surcharges
Packing supplies like boxes, bubble cushioning rolls, packing tape, etc., can add up quickly, especially if you aren’t finding used or free boxes
Hotel rooms and meals out during your out-of-state move
Utility deposits and connection fees.
Products to set up your new home like shower curtains, rods, bathmats, hand towels, cleaning supplies, and groceries
Closing costs can be a big expense to save for. Your Ascend agent will let you know ahead of time how much to prepare for.
Mover’s Insurance
Storage unit if you are moving before your house closes and possibly lengthy hotel stays as you wait to take possession of your new house.
First and last month’s rent, plus a deposit if you must rent before taking possession of your new house.

4. Make Moving Easy... Well Easy-ER

If you are relocating for work, ask your employer to cover the moving expenses.

Here’s some ideas to make moving across state lines a little easier:

If you have the money or time to save to pay for professionals to pack, move and unpack, DO It. Why not take the easiest and less stressful route?
Rent a moving truck and ask your friendly neighborhood Ascend Real Estate agent to get a group of friends to help.

Get a portable storage container like PODS (www.pods.com) to pack and load on your time schedule. The portable storage unit can be moved to your new location, and you can unload your items in your own time frame. This is an economical and flexible solution where you don’t have to fit into a busy moving company’s agenda. You could hire movers to unload the portable storage unit or again ask for help from your agent.
Enjoy the journey. Carve out time to see the sights along the way.

5. Don't Forget the Utilities

When you find the perfect house, your Ascend agent will provide a correct list of all the utility companies specific to your new property. No more calling around waiting on the line only to hear that the company you called doesn’t service your house. After a hard day’s work of moving in you’ll definitely want the comforts of heated or cooled air and showers.

6. Get A New Driver's License & Register Your Vehicle

Things to keep in mind:

Remember to update your insurance with your new address, license, and vehicle registration.
The place you go to register your vehicle and get your license goes by different names in different states. In Arkansas, it’s called the Revenue Department-Motor Vehicle Division. We just call it the Revenue office. Ascend associates will be glad to help you find the correct courthouse and Revenue office for the town you live in.
Also, it matters what day and time you visit the Revenue office if you don’t want to wait for hours. Just ask an Ascend Real Estate agent, they can share the best days and times to go.
Ask your Ascend agent what documents you need; we’ve all ended up at the Revenue office without all the proper documents. We wouldn’t want that to happen to you.
Since we are on the topic of registering, now would be a good time to remember to register to vote in Arkansas. Your Ascend agent can direct you to the correct courthouse.

7. Update Your Mailing Address

There are so many things to remember so Ascend Real Estate thought of a list to make it easier for you:

The following are places to remember to update your address:

Submit a Change-of-Address form with the USPS. You can get a paper form from any of our adorable post offices or submit the form online here at USPS. (moversguide.usps.com) All your mail will be forwarded to your new address.
Get on your credit card apps or call to update your new address.
Change your address on Amazon.
Update your streaming services, other online accounts, and subscription services.
If you are not switching to local, remember to contact financial institutions, retirement accounts, and cell phone companies.
Don’t forget to order new checks with your correct address.
Send out DM’s on social media updating your family and friends of your new address.

8. Settle Healthcare

Some ideas to think about are:

If your employer is providing your health insurance, see which doctors are in-network. Ask your realtor and people in the area which healthcare providers they recommend.
Examine your new insurance policy for deductibles and co-pays.
Go ahead and get on the schedule for new patient appointments in Arkansas.
Get recommendations for pharmacies. Some are busier than others and have significant wait times.
Call or go on your online portals for your current health care providers to request important medical records and prescriptions or have your new doctors send requests for records. Be prepared to go in person and sign for permission to release your information.
If you are self-employed log in to the health insurance marketplace and update your information and search for the options available in Arkansas. Ask your Ascend agent to help you find a health insurance agent if you need help navigating the health care marketplace.
Arkansas has some in-state options as well. Check out the Health Care Program (humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/medical-services/healthcare-programs/) on the Department of Human Services (human services.arkansas.gov) website to learn more.

9. Get Plugged Into the Commnuity

Whatever your interests, an Ascend agent would be happy to point you toward a club, group, or activity to help you meet new friends and start building a network of friends.

Try some of the following ideas to make your new home feel like home:

Meet your neighbors.
Walk or bike through your new neighborhood.
Drive around and get to know the town.
Spend some time at the parks, and skate parks.
Attend a local political meeting.
Check out the nightlife and live entertainment.
Arkansas is Wal-Mart country. You can easily make new friends while shopping.
Join a bowling league, take dance classes, sign up for PTA, or do some volunteer work.
Check the library for community activities.

Ascend Real Estate is elevating the real estate experience one home sale at a time and helping people smoothly relocate to this beautiful state. Welcome to the Natural State!

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