Start with pre-approval
Getting pre-approved before you start looking tells you what you can afford in the new market and shows sellers you're serious. Lenders can often work with a signed offer letter that lists your salary and start date, even before your first paycheck. Requirements vary by loan program, so share your new job details with your loan consultant early.
With CapCenter, pre-approval starts with a soft credit check that doesn't affect your score. You need a credit score of at least 620 for a CapCenter loan.
Learn the new area
- Ask your new coworkers where they live and what they like about it
- Compare commute times at the hours you'll actually drive
- Look at schools, parks, shopping and services that matter to you
- Check property tax rates and typical insurance costs, which can differ a lot between areas
- Visit at different times of day if you can
Shop from a distance
A local agent who knows the area is your eyes and ears. Ask for live video tours, where the agent walks the home while you ask questions, and review 3D tours and floor plans for listings you like.
Plan a short trip to tour your top choices in person when you can. Even a weekend visit can confirm what video can't show, like noise, smells or the feel of a street.
Ask about relocation benefits
Many employers offer help with moving. That can include paying movers, covering temporary housing or helping with closing costs. Ask HR exactly what's covered and how it's paid, since some benefits are reimbursed later and some may be taxable. A tax professional can tell you how yours are treated.
Plan for timing gaps
Your start date, your sale and your purchase rarely line up perfectly. A short-term rental or extended-stay housing can bridge a few weeks. If you own a home now, talk with your agent about selling first, buying first or making one contingent on the other.
Closing from afar
You may not need to be in town for closing. Depending on where you're buying, options can include signing documents remotely, a mail-away closing or using a power of attorney. Rules vary by state and loan program, so ask your loan consultant and settlement agent early.
CapCenter's ZERO Closing Costs (restrictions apply) can lower the cash you need at closing. If you buy with CapCenter's realty team where we offer realty services, you may also qualify for a Realty Purchase Credit of up to 0.5% of the purchase price (see Offer details).
