75 Relocation Mistakes to Avoid When Moving to a New City

At the Marnie Campbell Real Estate Team, we’ve been helping families relocate with confidence for over a decade. Relocating isn’t just about moving boxes—it’s about fitting together the puzzle pieces of finding the right home, navigating an unfamiliar city, managing timelines, and settling in without stress.

Relocation comes with countless moving parts—and plenty of chances for things to go off track. That’s where we come in. Whether it’s understanding the real estate market, timing your move, or simply knowing what to expect when you arrive, we help take the guesswork—and the stress—out of your move.

You deserve to feel confident—not overwhelmed. That’s why I’ve put together this guide of the 75 most common relocation mistakes we’ve seen—and more importantly, how you can avoid them.

You don’t know what you don’t know—until it’s too late.

1. Planning & Preparation Pitfalls

Not giving yourself enough time to plan properly.
Underestimating how long packing takes.
Skipping a detailed moving checklist. Tip: I have one—just ask!
Leaving utility transfers to the last minute.
Failing to research your new city before the move.
Forgetting to budget for relocation expenses.
Choosing a mover based only on price, not reputation.
Not getting multiple moving quotes.
Skipping moving insurance (yes, things can go wrong!).
Assuming your belongings will arrive exactly on time.
Packing essentials in boxes you can’t access easily.
Forgetting about your pets’ travel needs and rules.
Not backing up important digital files before moving.
Moving items you don’t need—declutter first.
Ignoring customs rules for international moves.
Not booking temporary accommodation if needed.
Misplacing important documents during the move.
Not updating your address in time.

2. Hiring the Right REALTOR®

Not contacting a REALTOR® early in your relocation process.
Trying to buy or rent in a new city without expert guidance.
Not working with a REALTOR® experienced in relocations.
Not interviewing multiple REALTORS® before choosing one.
Not understanding buyer representation agreements.
Assuming all REALTORS® offer the same level of service.
Not being open and honest with your REALTOR®.

Relocating? Let’s talk about how our expert team can help you make confident, informed decisions—so you avoid costly mistakes and feel at home, faster. Schedule a no-obligation chat today.

3. Finding the Right Home

Focusing only on the house—not the neighbourhood or lifestyle fit.
Not asking about schools, commute, parks, and nearby amenities.
Choosing a home too quickly because of relocation pressure.
Relying too heavily on online listings without in-person or guided insights.
Not considering the long-term potential of the home or neighbourhood.
Not understanding market conditions (buyer’s vs. seller’s).
Skipping important questions about condo/HOA rules and fees.
Living too far from daily conveniences or work.
Not researching future developments that could affect the area.

4. Real Estate & Housing Pitfalls

Choosing a home based only on price—not lifestyle fit.
Assuming property taxes are similar to your old city.
Underestimating maintenance costs in a new climate.
Skipping the home inspection or trusting old reports.
Renting short-term and rushing into a purchase later.
Forgetting about closing costs in your new area.

5. Financial & Budgeting Mistakes

Underestimating the cost of living in your new city.
Not having an emergency fund for relocation surprises.
Thinking a salary increase will cover everything.
Overusing credit cards during the move.
Not budgeting properly for your home deposit.
Having your deposit tied up in a non-traditional bank.
Not preparing for legal and closing costs.
Failing to adjust insurance policies for your new location.
Assuming work relocation allowances cover all expenses.
Ignoring transportation or commuting cost differences.

6. Career & Work Missteps

Not confirming job details before moving.
Thinking you can get a mortgage without a job secured.
Ignoring local licensing or certification requirements.
Not networking professionally before arriving.
Assuming your spouse’s job will transfer smoothly.
Not negotiating relocation support with your employer.
Overlooking commute times or costs in your new city.
Failing to consider remote work time zones and internet reliability.

7. Family & Lifestyle Stresses

Not involving your partner early in relocation decisions.
Overlooking how the move will affect your children emotionally.
Researching schools or childcare too late in the process.
Not preparing pets properly for the move.
Ignoring your need for a social support network.
Not exploring new hobbies or local activities post-move.
Assuming you’ll love your new city without visiting first.
Not preparing for extreme weather or seasonal changes.

8. Legal & Administrative Errors

Not updating your driver’s license or vehicle registration promptly.
Forgetting to register for healthcare in your new province or country.
Assuming legal documents are valid everywhere.
Not updating emergency contact info with key institutions.
Failing to understand different insurance requirements (home, auto, health).

9. Emotional & Post-Move Pitfalls

Ignoring the emotional stress of relocation.
Not giving yourself time to adjust to your new surroundings.
Losing touch with friends and family after the move.
Not exploring your new community early on.
Forgetting to celebrate your successful move—you did it!

Final Thoughts:

Relocation can feel like a giant leap—but with the right support, it’s one you can take with confidence. The Marnie Campbell Real Estate Team is here to help you avoid costly mistakes, reduce stress, and enjoy the journey into your new city.

Thinking About Relocating to Calgary? Let’s Talk

With over 800 successful real estate transactions, the Marnie Campbell Real Estate Team has the experience and proven strategy to help you buy, sell, or invest with confidence.

Schedule a no-obligation consultation today and let’s talk about your next move in Calgary real estate.

Find a Realtor in Calgary to buy a home. Contact Marnie Real Estate Team.

The Marnie Campbell Real Estate Team can help you make better real estate decisions, so you have no regrets buying a home.

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Posted by Marnie Campbell on April 22nd, 2025