New Years is a time of assessment and reflection. It’s a time when you take stock and see if you are in the place in your life you want to be, or if you need to make changes. One of those changes many people make is a complete shake-up by moving to a new city. Relocation can be stressful and is typically prompted by a career change. This usually means that a company will help you with the costs associated with relocation, if you negotiate it into your package.

Charlotte is once again one of the most popular relocation destinations in the country. There is great job growth, sports, museums, cuisine, culture, weather and more making it attractive. It is consistently ranked high on the list of best places for young professionals. It is one of the hottest housing markets in the country as well. Headquarters for major banks, Fortune 500 companies, and start-up companies and technology companies are all in the area, as well as non-profits and many other industries as well.

There is truly something for everyone in the Charlotte area. There are two great lakes that are the perfect serene retreats for a weekend or all through the week with a commute. There are many areas of high density perfect for young professionals or people looking to downsize. There are great family friendly suburbs with wonderful schools. There are urban areas in the midst of renewal perfect for investment properties.

So, what do you do once you have the new job in hand and are trying to settle the details so you can move to a brand new city? Here are some of the most common steps you will have to take to get prepared for your journey and to settle in.

Determine if you new company has corporate housing. This can be a great landing pad and can usually be used for a few months until you find a home, apartment, or condo that is right for you.
If you don’t have corporate housing, try and find an apartment or house rental that will allow a short term lease so you can use that time to find the perfect place for you.
Use your connections in the new city to help you to determine which neighborhood is right for you. Depending on your circumstances this could include walkability, schools, location, access to public transportation, commute time, and a variety of other factors.
Search online to view current listings and to find out prices, and compare homes. Listings will show you photos, highlight features, and have maps to pinpoint locations.
Hire a Realtor to help you narrow your search to find the perfect place. They can help with access to homes for touring, and will help you through the entire process from writing a contract to getting a home inspection all the way to the closing table.

Once you have relocated to Charlotte, be sure to check out the city as if you were a tourist. See a NFL Football Game, attend an NBA Basketball Game, go to a NASCAR Race. If sports is not your thing, see a show at one of the many theaters, explore the ImaginOn Children’s Library, hike along the miles of trails and greenways. There is so much to explore that it will take you years to see it all.