Relocating from one city to another can be a very stressful ordeal. There's a lot to consider when relocating from what part of town to move to, how to secure a good job, and where to find a good school district. After the pandemic, there was a big shift in the movement of families across the country. Whether it's for a different job opportunity, trying out another region of the country, or just simply just checking an item off the bucket list, many people took the time after the pandemic to explore new housing options.
Licensed realtor Jackie Walters of the Torrance Group at Keller Williams Buckhead in the Atlanta area is a relocation specialist servicing many families moving to the city. With over 15 years of experience, she has all of the skills to help families navigate through the relocation process. Jackie gave us a list on how to be prepared for your next big move.
Boss XL Mag - What do you recommend to families planning on relocating? What advice do you give them in deciding on the location to where they want to move to?
Jackie Walters - Here are some recommendations I have for families to do in advance before they prepare to move to another city.
Do your research and learn about the new city.
Have a clear understanding of your motivations for relocating.
Learn the market of your new area.
Make a list of your family’s non-negotiable for your new community (distance from work, school, extra curriculum, worship, shopping, etc.)
In addition to that, the perspective buyer must also:
Partner with an agent that values your real estate goals as their own.
Make a list of what you need in an agent.
Interview your agent (Ask the questions that matter)
Rely on your agent to provide perspectives and Communicate, Communicate and Communicate some more ~ Be flexible and breathe.
Boss XL Mag - What makes relocation your expertise? What was your personal experience with relocation when you moved to Georgia over 15 years ago? What was important to you when you had to relocate?
Jackie Walters - My personal experience when I moved from Florida to Georgia and my commitment to delivering a one-of-a-kind service to my relocation client's needs has allowed me to become an expert in the relocation market. During my relocation to Georgia (a state that was completely unfamiliar territory to my family and me), it was clear that having a knowledgeable real estate agent in the area was extremely important. This high degree of care provided by my agent was key in making Georgia a home for my family.
Boss XL Mag - What is the process to ensure that your clients find their new home?
Jackie Walters - Relocating can cause a great deal of anxiety, my goal is to alleviate the stress and build a lasting relationship that extends past the relocation. The process includes:
Conduct a comprehensive consultation that helps to tailor services to the client’s needs.
Identify the area.
Provide a relocation packet/ information for the new area.
Set expectations for communicating.
Assemble the experts that will best support the client (lenders, inspectors, contractors, etc.)
Create a shared timeline calendar.
Provide detailed video tours that allow clients the opportunity to interact with the home.
Be present, flexible, and the expert.
And once again and very important, Communicate, Communicate and Communicate some more.
I have a true gift for relocating families and helping them pursue their homeownership goals, needs, and wants. I have been the Relocation Queen!! My clients are not just clients; they become my family.
Contact Jackie Walters for your next move: jackiewalters@kw.com
Follow Jackie Walters IG @itsa_done_deal
