Moving to a new city can be an extremely daunting experience – however, it may be an ambition you have always had in mind but haven’t yet followed through until now. With moving comes the pressures of finding a suitable location and property to rent or buy, a new job and meeting new friends. If you are not familiar with the area at all, moving to a new city can be a huge step and you may need some useful information to make the process much simpler and enjoyable.

Here are three top tips you may wish to take on board:

1. Do your research

Before deciding to move to a new city, you must carry out enough research about the area. This will give you an idea of the general cost of living, neighbourhoods and entertainment and nightlife as a basis. It would also be wise to carry out some research on the job market to understand if there are many job opportunities in your industry, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 outbreak, which has significantly impacted businesses. You won’t just find all there is to know about the area simply by researching online though – it’s best to visit and get a feel for the city by exploring. Only then will you get a true insight into what it may be like to become a resident.

2. Find a property

You’ll need to start looking for a suitable place to stay before you can plan the move. Decide whether you’d prefer to rent either on a short-term or long-term basis, or whether you would prefer to buy a property. Starting the property search in good time will give you an insight into what you can realistically afford.

If you plan on moving abroad (to a city in Africa, for example) and have a limited budget, you could choose a single room for rent in Accra. An online search gives you the freedom to select a price limit and the option of furnished properties. However, don’t rush into making a decision, as you may settle for a home that isn’t suitable for you. Always ask questions before signing the dotted line.

Always remember that your mortgage or rental costs should be no more than a quarter of your monthly income, so you can afford the bills comfortably without struggling or falling into debt.

3. Get to know the transportation links

Getting around an unfamiliar city is usually a case of trial and error to find your way from A to B. Before moving, take the time to find out more about which transport links are available and which of those you will need to get to work or into the city centre.

There may be a variety of transportation options to consider including the likes of trains, buses, the underground or the tram. Becoming familiar with public transport links will allow you to explore your new city with ease. However, don’t be afraid if you do get slightly lost. Google Maps will become your friend and guid and you should also carry a physical map in case of an emergency.