Known as the Lone Star State, Texas is the second-largest state in the U.S. by landmass and population. Texas is a southern state that shares borders with Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. It shares its southern border with the country of Mexico and the Gulf of Mexico.
Texas is a southern state, but it can still receive snow and experience cold winter temperatures. There are several steps you should take before moving to Texas to ensure you’re ready to appreciate the benefits of living in Texas and prepared for the climate.
Learn about the weather patterns that affect Texas.
Homeowners moving from states such as Illinois may not have experience living through a hurricane. Due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, Texas is affected by tropical storms and hurricanes. Although there are usually a couple of years between every hurricane that strikes Texas, Texas is also located in Tornado Alley. Homeowners must be prepared to deal with natural disasters.
One way to ensure your peace of mind when you move to Texas is to learn about the weather conditions that could indicate a tornado or hurricane is developing and have an action plan to protect your family and property. This may include keeping emergency supplies in an underground storm bunker and investing in a generator that can keep your power running during tropical storms and hurricanes.
Work with a realtor to find the right property.
A real estate agent can help you identify the best place to live to suit your needs. Whether you plan to rent or buy, a realtor can provide critical information about the properties you’re considering and local businesses. For example, if you’re thinking about buying a fixer-upper, your realtor can tell you which local contractors are known for excellent customer service.
Buying a fixer-upper can be a great way to acquire a home and afford to upgrade your kitchen and other critical rooms and home systems. Obtaining an elegant kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. You can give your kitchen a new look by painting the walls, refinishing or replacing kitchen cabinets, and installing new appliances. You’ll save money on your electric bills by replacing your old refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher. You’ll also increase your property’s value and improve the look and feel of your home by investing in your elegant kitchen.
Invest in a home warranty.
Moving can be stressful and expensive, so the last thing you want to deal with after you move is expensive home repairs. Obtain a home warranty plan from a reputed home warranty company, such as AFC Home Club. When home systems or appliances break down, you can spend hundreds to thousands of dollars having qualified technicians make emergency repairs.
Google “home warranty companies in Texas” to learn about the different home warranty options you can obtain. Every home system suffers normal wear and tear and should be maintained regularly to prevent them from breaking down. You may opt for an appliance plan covering household appliances, including your washer, dryer, and built-in microwave. Comprehensive service contracts also cover your plumbing, heating system, and air conditioner. It’s essential to understand how the weather can affect your home systems because high humidity levels can cause your air conditioner to break down.
Consequently, if you’re moving near the coast or to another area with high humidity, such as Austin, you’ll need a service contract that covers air conditioner repair costs. If you buy an older home with outdated appliances, you may opt to forego a service contract with an appliance plan until you replace those appliances. It’s also important to note that pools aren’t covered with most standard home warranty plans, and you must add pool coverage to your plan if you need it.
Work with moving professionals.
Preparing to move involves multiple steps. It’s time-consuming and can be physically and mentally taxing. You can ensure your peace of mind when you move by hiring moving experts familiar with the area you’re moving to. Professional movers can secure your furniture, load your belongings onto a moving truck, and transport your property to your new home. You won’t have to worry about injuring yourself while you’re loading and unloading furniture or boxes. Instead, you can plan to drive or fly to Texas, meet the moving truck at your new home, and concentrate on unpacking.
Any move can be stressful, but if you’re moving to a new state, it’s essential to take time to learn about the local weather and work with a local realtor who can help you find a new home. Invest in a home warranty to protect yourself from incurring the cost of repairs if your home’s systems and appliances break down. You’ll also benefit from hiring professional movers who can simplify the moving process.
