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Hand in Hand: Why Retiring and Relocating Go Together Nicely

In many instances, retiring and relocating go hand in hand. But, if you’re like most people, you worry about the change. Here’s how to make the transition as smooth as possible.

 

Decide Where You Want to Live

 

One of the biggest challenges to retirement and moving is finding a new place to live. If you relocated for a job, it’s likely that you will want to find the perfect “retirement city” when it’s time to quit. This is easier said than done.

 

There are many homes for sale in Canada, for example, but finding the perfect one for you is often part skill and part luck. One of the factors that goes into finding the perfect home is the community. What do you want to do when you retire? Some cities or townships are known for certain activities – skiing, for example.

 

If you’re an outdoorsy type, you might not want to live in or near a city.

 

Spend some time really thinking about this, as it’s a major decision. Talk with local real estate agents, your family, and close friends. Get their input.

 

Round Up Your Financial Information

 

Get all of your retirement and financial paperwork in order. If you receive a pension, you’ll want to know what the amount is. If you’ve got an employer-based retirement scheme with substantial funds in it, you’ll also want to know what to expect. Finally, make sure you understand your social insurance plan and what benefits you get after you retire.

 

If you’ve got any personal savings that’s not housed in a retirement account, speak with your financial advisor about what you should do with the money.

 

Say Goodbye To Old Friends

Plan some time to say goodbye to old friends, any family you’re leaving, or co-workers. This is a hard time for them too. Some people choose to have a farewell party, while others simply organize informal get-togethers.

 

Regardless of how you choose to handle it, it’s important that you get some closure before you move on to the next phase of your life. Of course, saying goodbye doesn’t necessarily mean that you will never speak with your friends or family again. On the contrary. But, it does mean that your relationship with them will change dramatically due in large part to your physical proximity to them.

Make New Friends

 

It’s important to invest in the new community you plan on living in. If you happen to be moving closer to family or old childhood friends, this is going to be a lot easier than if you’re moving away from them.

 

Get involved in local community activities, get to know local businesses, and join a few social clubs that spark your interest. When you invest in a community, you’re more likely to feel like you’re part of it.

 

It makes transitioning easier.

 

You may not ever have the type of relationships you had while you were working. But, you can have meaningful relationships in retirement that are fulfilling in different ways. This is a time for you to relax and enjoy your life. And, while some find transitioning to a new community difficult, it can also be one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences of your life.

 

Frances Parsons earns her living as a relocation consultant. She likes to be able to impart her ideas and insights with an online audience. Her previous posts can be found on a number of relevant websites.

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