Relocating to a new city can be both exhilarating and stressful.  Americans are moving to the South in increasing numbers, and Charlotte is one of the top destinations.  It seems as though most everyone you meet in Charlotte has come from someplace else, and chances are that you can count yourself among the ranks that have relocated here for economic opportunity, family considerations, retirement or a fresh start.  Research and planning is the key to making a smooth and stress-free transition.  There are numerous online resources available, and the Chamber of Commerce website is an excellent place to begin.  Take inventory of the reasons for your move and plan accordingly. 

Family and Lifestyle Considerations

Family considerations are very important.  If there are school-age kids, keep them informed and involve them in the process to temper any anxiety they may have.  They can contribute to the effort by collecting magazines and brochures from the Chamber of Commerce or Visitors' Bureau, or making a scrapbook or video diary of the move.  Issues such as transitioning a trailing spouse must be considered.  Decisions must be made regarding schools, child care, and possibly adult care for trailing parents.  Oftentimes, the family's Realtor may be the only person they know in the new city.  The Realtor can be an excellent resource for school, neighborhood and crime reports, as well as property tax and insurance comparisons, temporary housing and insight on future plans for an area.  Look to him also for recommendations on healthcare providers, area churches, and getting connected within the new community. 

Employment-related transfers

If the move is job related, you will want to evaluate the company's relocation policy.  The policy should address issues such as (1) which employees are eligible, (2) how many search visits are allowed and who can go on them (3) how many months of temporary housing will be provided (4) whether the employer will purchase or help sell your current home, and whether they help with bridge loans or double mortgage payments.  Other considerations include the distance required to qualify for relocation assistance, and whether you will be reimbursed for expenses or receive a specified amount.  It is important that you know how your company's policy will be applied and what each party will be responsible for.

The real estate market must also be analyzed if you have to sell a home in order to move.  More and more, employees don't want to sell their home at a loss in order to move for employment purposes.  While many companies offer assistance in this area, a growing number are adding restrictions as a way of controlling costs, so be clear on what happens if your home doesn't sell.

Retirement

North Carolina is currently ranked as the 5^th most popular retirement destination in the U.S. and is projected to surpass Florida as the #1 retirement destination according to the National Active Retirement Association (NARA).  In the Charlotte area, the success of Pulte's Carolina Lakes active adult community in Lancaster, SC and the new Carolina Ridge community coming to the Lake Norman is evidence of the surge in this population.  Quality healthcare, taxes and housing will be important to this demographic group as they follow their kids and grandkids here.