A long distance move is one of the biggest decisions a family can make. And it is rarely just about real estate.
It is about a new job offer that feels exciting but uncertain. It is about being closer to aging parents, or watching your kids grow up far from the people who love them most. It is about asking yourself: Is this the right time? Are we ready? What if we get it wrong?
If those questions sound familiar, you are not alone — and you are already thinking about this the right way.
Before You Look at a Single Listing, Get Clear on These Three Things
Most people start a long-distance move by searching homes online. That is understandable. But the families who navigate these moves most smoothly are the ones who get clear on their situation before they fall in love with a kitchen or a neighbourhood.
Here is where to start.
1. How stable is your income?
If there is any uncertainty around a new role — a probationary period, a contract position, a business you are still building — renting first is worth serious consideration. It protects your flexibility and removes pressure from the process. There is no shame in it. It is smart planning.
2. Is this a permanent move, or a chapter?
A family planting long-term roots needs a different strategy than one expecting to be in a new city for two or three years. There is no wrong answer, but being honest about your timeline changes everything — what to buy, how much to spend, and whether buying even makes sense at all.
3. What does your time horizon actually look like?
Less than three years in a new market carries real risk. Five or more years gives you the ability to ride out the normal ups and downs of any real estate cycle. Knowing where you stand helps you make a decision you will feel good about long after moving day.
So What Does the Path Forward Actually Look Like?
Once you have thought through those questions, the picture gets clearer — and a lot less overwhelming.
For most long-distance moves, selling your current home first is the right call. It tells you exactly what you are working with financially, and it lets you move forward with confidence rather than trying to juggle two properties across two cities.
From there, virtual showings are far more useful than most people expect. With the right local guidance — someone who will be honest with you about a neighbourhood, not just enthusiastic about a listing — you can absolutely make a well-informed decision without being physically present for every showing.
How We Can Help
We are a husband and wife real estate team, and Waterloo Region is home to us. We have helped families relocate here from across the country, and we have helped families leave this community for their next chapter somewhere else.
What we have learned is that the families who feel best about their moves are the ones who had someone in their corner who was steady, honest, and prepared — someone who helped them think it through rather than rush them into action.
If you are quietly turning a potential move over in your mind, we would love to be a resource for you. No pressure, no pitch. Just a conversation to help you figure out your next right step.
Reach out anytime. We are here.