Ready to Downsize and Relocate to California? Consider This First
Thinking about moving to California? There are many reasons to love living in California. The weather is one of the most popular reasons, as the state has a Mediterranean climate perfect for outdoor activities all year round. The state also has a large diverse population, which contributes to its vibrant culture. It’s also a great place to start a business, thanks to its burgeoning economy. And, of course, let’s not forget about the beautiful scenery. From the mountains to the beaches, there is always something to see. Whether you’re looking for an exciting urban environment or a laid-back coastal lifestyle, California has it all.
If you’re looking to downsize and move to a more temperate state, then California is a perfect choice. To make your move a smooth one, real estate expert Kyle Souza offers the following insight to help with your transition. Search for your perfect California home.
Is California Right for You?
California is home to surf, sand, vineyards, forests, and more, making it seem like the perfect destination for many. However, it’s important to factor in the cost of living to determine if it’s a genuine fit.
Housing in California is notoriously expensive. Median home prices hit a record $898,980 in May 2022. Moving to California may not be right for everyone.
Utilities aren’t as high in California as most people would expect. Electricity bills average out at $101.49 per month. For water, $77 per month is typical, while sewer usually costs $59. Even food costs aren’t terrible, coming in between $2,800 and $3,200 per person per year.
It’s worth noting that California has some of the highest income taxes in the US, as well as the highest base sale tax rate, though you can take heart that property taxes are below the national average.
As for starting a business, there are several reasons California is a great place to start a business. For one, the state has a significant population, which means there is a large potential customer base. In addition, California has a well-developed infrastructure, with access to transportation, communication, and other resources that businesses need to thrive. Plus, California is home to some of the world’s leading technology companies, providing an ecosystem that is conducive to innovation and success.
What to Consider for the Actual Move
Dealing with Housing
Having a place to call home once you reach your new state is a must. If you want to streamline your property search, connect with Kyle Souza, who can help you through the process. He can help you explore homes first-hand, allowing you to get an accurate picture of the current condition of the housing market.
Connecting with an Online Doctor
Finding a new doctor is another important factor when you’re moving to a new city or state. The typical moving schedule is always packed with so many details, this is easy to overlook and put off for after the move. But it’s not something that should be delayed. Fortunately, thanks to telehealth you can take your pick of online doctors before the move. This allows you to connect with board-certified professionals to discuss everything from treatment options to prescriptions, without missing a beat. This timely and reliable access is also covered by most major insurance providers, which gives you additional peace of mind.
Deciding How Hands-on You Want to Be
Moves can be as hands-on or hands-off as you like. Full-service movers can tackle the entire process if you want as much help as possible. While it costs more, it’s the least amount of effort on your end.
If you’re budget-conscious, a DIY move might be a better fit. In many cases, you can get free boxes from grocers and retailers, enlist help from friends to load everything up, and handle the drive yourself. Just be aware that you may need to hire some help to unload if you can’t do it alone.
Getting Settled
After a major relocation, it can take some time to get settled into your new home and neighborhood. Here are a few tips to help make the transition smoother. First, take some time to unpack and get organized. This will help you feel more at home in your new space. Next, get to know your neighbors. Introduce yourself and invite them over for coffee or a barbecue. Finally, explore your new neighborhood. Get familiar with the local shops and eateries, and find out where the best parks or playgrounds are.
If You’re Starting a Business
When it comes to starting a new business in California, there are many things to consider. First and foremost, you need to choose the right business structure. This will determine how your business is taxed and how liability is divided among the owners. You also need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits, which can vary depending on the type of business you’re operating. Finally, you need to create a detailed business plan that outlines your goals and how you intend to achieve them.
After reading this post, you should have a few ideas of whether California is right for you. Moving to California was a great decision for me years ago. Hopefully, the tips provided in this post will help make your transition a bit smoother. If you have any other questions or would like some additional advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. Kyle Souza is here to help with all of your real estate and relocation needs. Team up with Kyle today by calling (760) 274-0991!