One of the reasons I got into real estate is that, as a military spouse, I know how frustrating moving to a new city can be. Trying to find a place to live when you haven’t spent any time in the area is stressful. You don’t know what the neighborhoods are like, where the grocery stores are, or where your eventual new friends are going to be. So, to help ease your stress, here are 4 tips for figuring out exactly where you want to be: 

Narrow down your location –
Local social media pages can give you a real sense of the different communities in your new town. Look up local newspapers and magazines, and then follow them on social media to stay updated on news and events.  Whatever you are into, there is a local business or interest group just for you. Perhaps you want to live near historical sites, or you enjoy boating and want to live near popular waterways. Maybe you have small children and want to find them the best playgrounds, or you are a foodie and want to live where the action is. Determine what’s important to you and start finding those resources early. Pay attention to where those businesses or groups are located, as this will help you narrow down your ideal location.

–Moving to Hampton Roads and not sure where to start? Find me on Instagram @ashleysurlesrealestate

Know Your Numbers –
The real estate market where you are moving may vary greatly from the market in the area you are leaving. Pre-shopping homes online can give you a sense of the local housing market in your new area and help you to set your expectations. Speak to a mortgage lender EARLY! Most lenders offer a fast turn around on pre-approval after answering a few easy questions. This will give you peace of mind when deciding your price range, helping you to base it on the facts of your finances rather than emotion and desire.

Check out these great mortgage lenders to get started:

Sylvia Hazelwood, Loan Officer
Movement Mortgage
NMLS # 528727

p: (757) 603-7459 | e: sylvia.hazelwood@movement.com

Joseph Delgado, Sr. Mortgage Banker
Atlantic Bay Mortgage
NMLS # 211259

p: (757) 784-1178 | e: joedelgado@atlanticbay.com

Get Yourself an Ally –
In today’s world, sellers and agents are more comfortable with technology and are increasingly likely to allow buyers’ agents to video chat with their clients from the property. Sure, you may know a friend nearby or have a military sponsor at your new station who is willing to check a property for you, but an agent, particularly one who has relocated long-distance, is going to pay closer attention to the details of the home and its position in the market. They are better suited to help you determine if a particular property is right for you. That is our job, after all! 

Ashley is a licensed real estate agent in Virginia, specializing in helping those relocating to and from the Williamsburg and Hampton Roads areas. She focuses on empowering clients in their real estate transactions through thoughtful and knowledgeable service while her expertise in marketing, sales and client service ensures a successful and smooth transaction for her clients. Contact her today to discuss your real estate needs.

Ashley Surles, Realtor®
ashleys@cbwilliamsburg.com | (757) 634-8185