- Read that Relocation Policy!
You’ve just been offered a job that involves a relocation to Toronto. Step one is to learn what your relocation policy includes (and doesn’t). Know what your responsibilities are, and what services your employer is providing. Don’t just accept and show up. Read the offer, do your research, and ask questions if anything is unclear.
- Get to know Toronto
This one is rather important. Take a trip to Toronto and explore (your employer likely covers an advance trip). Get a feel for life in Toronto. While many large cities around the world are very similar, there are likely some major differences. If you aren’t able to visit Toronto in advance of accepting the relocation, find as much information as possible and speak with your employer to get a feel for the area. Try to touch base with colleagues working in your Toronto office. Read the local Toronto news. Understand our weather – we have four very distinct seasons. A good real estate professional (like us!) can also help find a neighbourhood that best fits your needs.
- Determine the cost of living
Real estate is a major life expense, and is an area that differs greatly from city to city – even within the same country. A good real estate professional (like us!) will guide you through the processes, and help find a neighbourhood that best fits your needs. Real estate in Toronto is strong, but it’s important to remember that Toronto is Canada’s largest city, and prices reflect that.
- Ensure your family is on board
This one is pretty self-explanatory. Will your spouse be able to work in Toronto? Are you a care-giver for your parents? Having full family support is critical to adapting to your new home.
- Organization is KEY
So you’ve accepted the relocation and you’re moving to Toronto. Now it is critical to stay organized, especially if you are moving from outside of Canada. Keep your legal and financial documents together. Stay on top of any steps provided by your relocation councillor or real estate professional. Get your work permit and Social Insurance Number (SIN), followed by your Canadian bank account. Order cheques (you’ll need those if you plan to rent). Our sister company, MAC Relocation Solutions, can assist with all destination and settling in services, and get you started in Toronto fast.
- Determine your budget and priorities
When looking for your new home, a budget is obviously critical. Make a list of “must haves”, a list of “would like to have”, and know the real difference between the two. Knowing what you want and what you can afford, prior to searching, helps guide your decisions. The Toronto real estate market is very strong, which means properties don’t stay on the market for long periods of time. Having your budget and priorities all in order in advance allows you to make decisions faster.
- Build a social support network
Find a way to connect with like-minded individuals in Toronto. Connect with other expats. Consider volunteering. Establish a social network. The sooner you do that, the better, as that will help you feel more “at home” in your new hometown.
Interested in buying real estate in Toronto & the GTA, or perhaps investing in Toronto real estate? First time home buyer? Moving to Toronto? Are you part of a Toronto relocation with your employer? We can help you with all steps of the process, from finding a new home, temporary accommodations in the meantime, destination services, settling in services, move management, and so much more. So many steps of the move can be handled in advance, so when you arrive we can get you settled much faster. When moving to Toronto, we can help with all aspects of the relocation.
We’d love to hear from you, so call us today to book your complimentary private consultation.
Once you are all settled into your new home, let us help you with a relaxing Caribbean get-away with a private luxury villa rental in St Martin/ St Maarten, St Barth’s or Anguilla. Caribbean villa rentals are a cost-effective way to travel. Ask us how!