This is a short list of some of the steps to take before relocating for retirement. If you read “Failsafe retirement planning advice” or “Resources for those curious about the best place to retire,” you know there is much to consider in choosing a retirement location.
The book entitled Repacking Your Bags: Lighten Your Load for the Rest of Your Life by Richard Lieder and David Shapiro talks about doing the research necessary if your retirement plans include relocation. Lieder and Shapiro recommend:
• If you are planning to work, be prepared. Talk to people in your career area to learn about the need for your services. Is there a market for what you do now or what you plan to do if you are re-careering in a new location?
• Write to the local Chamber of Commerce for information on the area. Find out if the area has what you are looking for in the way of educational facilities, restaurants, culture, healthcare, etc.
• Subscribe to the local newspaper and learn what is going on in the location you are interested in.
• Take a weekend, week, or month, depending on your work schedule, and get away to visit the retirement destination you are considering first and experience the flavor of the environment. Eat at local restaurants, take walks in neighborhoods and educate yourself by asking residents about their experiences there. Then take a longer visit there to get a true feel for actually living there. Remember that the essentials for a successful retirement are not the same as what is needed for a successful vacation.
• Read books written about this town, city, or state so that you can make the right decision for you.
Additional Questions To Ask Yourself
Steps to take before relocating for retirement always include asking questions. Your answers will be as unique as you are. There is no one-size-fits-all response. When considering a particular retirement location, ask:
• Is this really where I want to be?
• Does this destination meet my environmental needs and likes to sustain my desired lifestyle?
• Will I be able to thrive and be stimulated here?
• Will I have the volunteer opportunities in this new environment that I have currently?
• Will I be able to relax here when I want to?
• Will I be able to do the level of physical activity here that I am used to doing?
• Will I be able to get back to my family and friends quickly in case of an emergency or just to visit?
I provide much more information, thought-provoking questions, and exercises to guide you through relocating for retirement in my book Where Will You Retire? A Retirement Guide And Exercises For Deciding Where To Retire, Buy A Second Home, Or Relocate.*
I invite you to discuss these suggestions and questions with your spouse/partner and with family and friends. If you are single, you may desire additional perspective from your friends and family as you begin your retirement planning process.
*affiliate link