Tips for Moving to Austin

Are You Headed for the Austin City Limits?

So…you’ve decided to move to Austin.  Many folks are doing that, meaning you’re in good company.

One of the first questions you want to ask yourself is where to live. What area of Austin will offer you the most benefit?

Proximity to your work is probably paramount. Proximity to play comes next and if you are lucky enough to be retired then move #2 to #1.

Traffic isn’t as bad in Austin as the natives would lead you to believe, but at certain times of the day and in certain places, it is slow and stressful.  So plan your work commute (route and distance) as well as the distance to other things in your life. Schools, churches, exercise, shopping, entertainment, the airport –  just to name a few.

(1) Once you find a neighborhood or area you like, drive around to locate a grocery, a doctor’s office, a post office and restaurants. Since you’re moving to Austin you might plan on things costing more or less than your previous domicile. Do cokes, cleaners or the cinema cost more or less than you are accustomed to – budget accordingly.

(2) Will your furniture fit in your new home? Storage units are expensive and often far removed from your residence. You probably won’t be moving in the near future so you might want to consider donating to charity or a garage sale. If you need to downsize possessions, do so.

(3) Moving away from friends and family can be painful, and making new friends sometimes takes time.  So invite those you miss most to visit. After all, who doesn’t want to visit Austin!

(4) Locate a few of your “new” favorite places. If you like music then Austin is the right place for you. Find venues close to your home that offer your taste in music, are economical and fit your calendar. Additionally, join a class or club. That could mean yoga, paddle boarding or cycling, because all are popular in Austin. In fact, it’s a good bet that your pastime, hobby or interest is shared by a group or organization where you can make new friends.

(5) If you are buying a home then consider resale. What? Consider selling? You say you are not planning on selling, but things happen fast in this world. Jobs, relationships, opportunities come along and you may want to move before you planned. So consider the demand in the area, the supply of homes, and the prospects for long term growth.

One of the most important considerations in Austin is water. Water for your home, for recreation, for your plants and pets. The current drought has reconditioned all our thinking.  Is your home on the city utility or a private water company? Does your home have a pool? How big is your yard or how much water does your landscaping need? You may want to modify your landscaping with xeriscaping to conserve water, save money and maintain a great curb appeal.

With all the new people moving into Austin there are many changes taking place. But be assured that this Austin is much the same as the Austin founded in 1839. The number 1 city in the hearts of all Texans new and old!