San Jose Area Relocation Guide :
Most people's first reaction when we start looking at properties is a complete Jaw-Drop at the prices we have here in the greater San Jose-Silicon Valley area. And of course lamenting how much that kind of money would buy in Texas or Florida, i.e. whatever state they are relocating from. This is quite an understandable first reaction. But personally there is no place else I would rather be, and I am not the only one that feels this way. Relocating anywhere is arduous and stressful, and Silicon Valley only raises the level a notch. Some people try to move it themselves, or with the assistance of "movers." Most people already know what they want to do. Many times when I am talking to somebody relocating here, their company is providing them with a relocation package or allowance.
If you plan on renting first, consider it done. We have a wide variety of rentals here, and the market isn't tight. Contact me for some on-line rental resources if you wish, but the two best to start with are probably www.craigslist.com or the San Jose Mercury. The city of San Jose provides a relocation packet online. If you are serious about relocating here and looking at properties to purchase, please don't hesitate and contact me right away, and ask for my relocation packet.
Give yourself adequate time to complete all the steps for a successful move. Some people like to use a checklist. You must of course first contact the post office, and in turn, all the utilities, cable, or satellite as well. At the bottom of the San Jose shopping centers page you can also find phone numbers for Utilities listed city-by-city to get your services started. Both DirecTV and the Dishnetwork have services to help you. For most of Santa Clara County, Comcast is the cable provider. Many websites offer various moving tips, but some of the most important things are just common sense. If you have children, you will also need to do some research on the schools, and make the decision, Public vs. Private, etc. The area you move will clearly influence this too. To determine what school disctrict your child would attend please visit my school district guide. If you or someone in your family plans on going to college or technical school in the area, I also have a list of community colleges, vocational schools, and local universities.
Give yourself time to get comfortable with your new surroundings. For some people this means renting for a few months, and for others it just means renting a hotel room near the desired area, and immersing yourself in it. If you like to shop it may mean finding your favorite stores at our San Jose area shopping centers, for example. Of if you like attending church, as another example, it may mean finding a place of worship you are comfortable with. All in all, leave yourself adequate time to prepare yourself for your new environment, so that you will be comfortable when you get here.
The San Jose-Silicon Valley area is a great place to live. The climate here is certainly one of the nation's best. There is always something to do here. Santa Clara County has some of the best parks in California. I think we have more Professional sports teams here, than any other city, except possibly New York. No matter what your fancy is, you can probably find it here in the Bay Area!