Moving To New Jersey - A Relocation Guide

View of Jersey City from the boardwalk. Moving can be both exciting and overwhelming; even more so when you are relocating to a new town or city. Your American Financial Resources team has compiled the information in this New Jersey Relocation Guide to help you with the preparation for your move to New Jersey.

New Jersey is a wonderful place to live. With the ocean, some of the world's greatest cities within and near its borders, and natural areas in Northwest NJ and the Pine Barrens the state truly has something for everyone. Because New Jersey is relatively small you will be able to explore the different regions easily on day or weekend trips no matter where in the state you live.

Areas of New Jersey:

Gateway Region - So named due to its inclusion of Ellis Island, the gateway to the US for millions of immigrants, this is the most populated part of New Jersey. Much of this area is within commuting distance of New York City, and it includes major metropolitan cities in their own right such as Hoboken, Newark, and Jersey City. You will pay a premium for real estate in this highly sought after corner of New Jersey, but will be rewarded with world class dining and shopping, excellent schools, and limitless cultural and recreational opportunities.

Skylands - One of the more rural areas of the state this region is far from what many think of when they picture New Jersey. The rolling hills, lakes and river, mountains, and countless beautiful parks look nothing like city suburbs. Restored farm houses dot the sides of the roads that wind through this area, but Skylands real estate also includes newer communities with luxury homes and townhomes.

The Shore & Atlantic City - Everywhere else it's the beach, but in New Jersey it will always be "the shore". From Long Branch to Cape May the ocean's edge is an amazing place to live. The Jersey Shore communities vary greatly as you travel down the coast, with bustling Atlantic City, peaceful and exclusive Avalon, and family friendly Wildwood. Many of the homes are used as vacation properties or second homes, but there are year round communities as well - though they are most often quieter during the winter months.

Delaware River - Bordering Pennsylvania, much of this region is within an easy commute of Philadelphia. The revitalized Camden waterfront, intellectual center of Princeton, and the unique natural wonderland of the Pine Barrens all attract residents and visitors to this area. Real estate in the Delaware River region is as varied as the landscape. From inexpensive urban housing to sprawling estates and everything in between, there is a home for everyone.

Planning For Your Move to New Jersey

There are many details to take care of when relocating to New Jersey. Here are some tips and resources you may find helpful as you think through some of the items you'll need attend to.

Update Your Address. Everyone from family and friends to banks, creditors, insurers, charities, the IRS, magazines you subscribe to, your employer (new and former if applicable) and essentially every company you do business with will need your new information. Get a head start before your move by printing up cards with your new address so you can hand them out to people you want to stay in touch with. Email and online social networks are also a good way to communicate your new information. For businesses start a month or two before your move making a list of all the companies you get mail from on a regular basis - just keep a notepad and pen near where you sort the mail each day to keep this task easy. Don't forget your old mortgage company if you are selling a home as part of your New Jersey relocation. They will need it to send you your year end tax information.
Register School Aged Children For School. To find information on the public schools in your district, including how to register children for school visit the New Jersey School Directory from the New Jersey Department of Education. Find test results, parent reviews, and more on both public and private schools (including preschools) at greatschools.org.
Register to Vote. Visit the New Jersey Division of Elections for information on how and where to register to vote in local, state, and federal elections.
Update Drivers License and Car Registration. Learn how from the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission.
Find Local Businesses. To find a new doctor, dentist, babysitter, veterinarian, mechanic, cleaning person, and any other business or service you will need there are several things you can do. Ask your real estate agent, neighbors, and anyone else you have met in the area for recommendations. Check the reviews in the Google local listing for a business you are considering. Contact the local Chamber of Commerce for suggestions. Find the Chamber for your area in this directory.

Get Settled In Your New Community

Once you have unpacked a few boxes you are sure to want to explore your New Jersey home. If you are relocating to an area where you don't know many people you might be interested in getting to know others in your new town or city. Consider volunteering for a cause that is important to you (VolunteerMatch.org can help you find an organization in need of help) to help you find like minded people in your area. You might also join a moms group, book club, or recreational sports team - check your local library or coffee shop for postings about such groups.

To find fun happenings in your area such as outdoor concerts, community celebrations, sporting events, and film festivals visit the websites of your local chamber of commerce and convention and visitors bureau. They often have online event calendars and email newsletters that will keep you up to date.

Encourage yourself to try new restaurants and shops near your New Jersey home by purchasing a coupon book or card offering special deals on dining and shopping. These are available as fund raisers in many communities - check with your local school to find if one is offered near you.

Learn the nuts and bolts about your New Jersey town or city by visiting the municipal website. Find yours in this list published by the State of New Jersey. Each site will be different but you are likely to find information on topics including trash and recycling, local parks and libraries, and emergency services.

We at American Financial Resources wish you the best of luck with your relocation to New Jersey. For information on a New Jersey mortgage loan please contact us at 910-316-9508, request a quote for current New Jersey mortgage rates, or get started online.

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