Anyone had experience of relocating?

[bevthebaker]

Hi - I've been approached about a job in another part of the country. It's not an area I know and I don't have friends or family there, but some lovely Mumsnetters have given me a few pointers on the nicest towns and villages to live, so I've now got something to go on. What I'm wondering is, if I get the job, how do I sort out the accommodation? Do I stay in a B&B/self-catering while I look for somewhere to rent? Would it be reasonable to ask my potential new employer, or the headhunter firm that approached me, for assistance? Has anyone else been through a similar process? Thanks so much. x

[Sunnyshores]

Congratulations on the new job, or potential new job.

Relocating is stressful, but also a huge opportunity and (in my younger, single days) did it several times). Personally I wouldnt do it unless I liked the new area and could afford to live a 'better' life ie socialising more, getting out to meet new friends, same or better home. What I mean is there has to be a plus in it for you.

My removal packages included, as a start for negotiations with your new employer.

They paid the first 30 nights in a hotel/B&B whatever to a price of about £100 a night plus food to about £30 a night.

You also had a couple of weeks extra leave at the begining to look at properties, areas, find your bank etc.

If you owned property there was some complicated calculation which meant you wouldnt have to pay more for your ie 2 bed house than you paid at your old location. You either got a portion of your additional mortgage paid per month or a lump sum (ie £20k) to cover the difference.

If you rented I dont think there was a package - but you could try for something similar if rents are higher, or council tax, or parking at work, or train journies to work etc.

The actual removal costs - hiring a van, solicitor fees, stamp duty.

Anyway, I hope thats given you some ideas about what your additional costs maybe and what you could ask your employer to consider paying.

Good Luck!

[bevthebaker]

Thanks so much - all really helpful stuff. If I get to that stage in the interview process, I'll sound them out about a relocation package. Much more confident now - thanks.x