Moving to Philadelphia is an adventure like no other. The City of Brotherly Love is filled with history, wonder and a pulse of life that’s all its own. Moving out of state or to an unfamiliar city without a solid game plan, however, is not always a good idea. If you don’t know the lay of the land, there are some do’s and don’ts you should be aware of.
To make your transition to the city of Philadelphia go more smoothly, there are some moving tips to keep in mind. While this city is among the best places to live in the world, it does have some potential pitfalls to watch out for. If you’re coming sight unseen, these tips will help:
Online Research
Before going anywhere, take a look at housing finder sites on the internet to start compiling a list of apartments or rentals that you may be interested in. Narrow the list down by amenities and location, and tour these apartments first. It’s always easier to go in with a game plan than it is to hit the pavement not knowing what you’re looking for.
You can also use the internet to find information on school and neighborhood crime statistics to narrow your search, so when you do go to the city to find housing, you’ll be ahead of the game. However, do not commit to a lease by viewing an apartment online only. Take a tour of the apartment before you sign anything.
Arrange for Temporary Housing
The last thing you want to do moving to an unfamiliar city is get yourself trapped in a lease. To avoid this, consider securing temporary housing with a friend, relative or even a month-to-month lease as you learn your way around.
You might find your initial selection of apartments, for example, is too far away from where you’ll work. Or, even worse, you just might find your apartment is in a bad neighborhood or has poor management. Avoid this entirely by giving yourself some time to learn about the city, its layout and the feel of its different neighborhoods. While you might find yourself having to move twice in a short period of time, landing the right place to call home is worth the inconvenience.
Take the Time to Explore
If possible, take time off from your current job or spend a weekend exploring Philadelphia and searching for a new apartment. If this isn’t possible, after securing temporary housing in the city, make sure you’ve made the best choice for yourself and your family by really getting out and exploring the city and its neighborhoods. Philadelphia is a huge metro area. There’s a good chance you’ll find a neighborhood that really calls to you.
Never Rent Sight Unseen
Unless you are going month-to-month, don’t ever do this. Even then, it’s still wise to view an apartment and its surroundings before you arrive in town needing a room of your own. Renting without seeing an apartment can be a tragic mistake, especially if you find your new place is right along a busy rail stop or near a noisy highway.
There is no denying the Philadelphia area is among the best places to live in the Northeast. With so much to do and see, the city is adored by those who call it home. To make sure your experience is a good one, tread lightly when you first arrive. You’ll be glad you did.
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