Agreeing on Where to Move: Tips for Landing in the Right Place

Right now, you both agree on one thing: it’s time for a change of scenery. The problem is your partner isn’t quite on the same page about where that should be. Maybe you have your heart set on the mountains, but your partner loves the beach. Or you’d like to see what big city life is like, while your significant other craves a small-town vibe.  

Though bridging these gaps might seem daunting, it’s not as difficult as you might think – provided you’re both willing to keep an open mind, focus on shared priorities and put yourself in your partner’s shoes. Here are a few tips to help you get there.  

Be Honest from the Get-Go 

Sit down with your partner and have a real heart-to-heart about what you both want in a new place to live. Do be shy about voicing your must-haves and deal breakers. If being close to outdoor activities is non-negotiable for you, say so. If a short commute is essential for your partner, put that on the table.  

Talk about the pros and cons of different options that meet most of your criteria. While small town life would be slower paced and less expensive, it may lack the cultural buzz of a big city. Be willing to bend until both of you find some common ground. Maybe you can deal with having a tiny backyard if there’s a nearby park. And your partner may be fine with a longer commute if it means you’ll live in a top-rated school district. 

Focus on Shared Priorities 

Once you know what you both value most, do some research on locations that could meet those needs. For example, if being near mountains for skiing and hiking is a shared passion, look at towns in Colorado, New England or the Pacific Northwest. If culture and nightlife are top of mind, cities like Santa Fe, Portland or Greensboro may be more to your liking. While you’re at it, check out our comprehensive City Guides for some timely inspiration. 

Weigh the pros and cons of each place and be willing to bend on certain points. After all, compromising can often lead you to a hidden gem you’ll both fall in love with! Whenever possible visit your top choices so you get an idea of what day-to-day life might be like. Look at this an adventure and a chance to see things through your partner’s eyes.  

Try Out Your City Before You Commit 

Still unsure? If you have a general agreement about a location, renting versus buying a place might be a short-term solution. With a six- or twelve-month lease, you’ll get a feel for the neighborhood and amenities with the option to move again once the lease is up. Of course, this may not be as simple if you’re moving a family; however, look at it as a learning experience that can help you reach consensus in the long run.  

Above all, it’s not a contest. No one gets exactly what they want when compromising, but you can work together to determine what’s most important for your shared future. In the end, the place you wind up calling home will be a much better fit because you found it together.  

Consider Hiring a Professional Moving Company 

One thing you shouldn’t compromise on is hiring a reputable, quality mover like United Van Lines. United’s full-service moving packages for long-distance moves provide flexibility to mix and match the services you want and need, from packing and unpacking to standard furniture placement.  

Get a quote from United Van Lines today.  

Do you need help settling in? Check out our other blogs for moving tips and packing advice, as well as city guides and a wealth of other helpful, time-saving information.