What Are Relocation Companies?

Americans are on the move! According to the NAR (National Association of Realtors) millions of people moved during the pandemic. While the reasons vary, the growth in remote work opportunities was a major factor. Remote work has made it possible for people to move to more desirable locations with a lower cost of living and that’s exactly what’s happening. The moving shift looks to continue with between 14 and 23 million Americans planning to relocate within the year for a variety of reasons. Besides adding to an already hot real estate market, this moving trend has given a major boost to the relocation company industry. Just as the name implies, a relocation company (or relo company) specializes in helping people relocate. But what exactly do the services entail and how do they differ from a regular moving company? If a move is in your future, here’s a few good things to know: 

Relocation vs Moving Companies

A moving company is ideal for a simple move. They will help you pack and unpack your items and tow your vehicles to a new location. A relo company goes above and beyond by helping you with every aspect of the moving process from full real estate assistance, packing and unpacking to researching schools and finding you services in your new city. 

Buying/Selling A Home

Some relo companies will work with a real estate agent to help you find a new home in the city that you’re moving to. They may even cover a portion of the closing costs and the realtor commission. Additionally, a relocation company may assist you and your real estate agent in the sale of your current home. While real estate services offered by relo companies are costly,  a lot of worry and stress can be alleviated so that you can focus on the move, your family, and the more personal details that come with moving to a new city. 

Miscellaneous Services

There’s always bound to be things that come up when you’re making a major move. You might be surprised at some of the services a relo company can help you with in a pinch. Many relo companies will help with house hunting expenses such as gas mileage, lodging and meals. They can also help you (and other family members) find a job. And, if you need temporary housing during the move – they can help with that, too.  

The Cost

Some companies will foot the bill to move their employees to a different location to take on a new job. If you’re a single renter just moving across state, the cost can be as low as a few thousand dollars. If you’re a homeowner moving across the country, it can cost as much as $60,000 to $80,000 which includes real estate assistance (the buying/selling of a home), packing/unpacking and transportation costs.