Moving to New Hampshire

Maybe you already have an impression about New Hampshire – from word of mouth, or vacation/college visits, photos, and of course: the internet.  But the thought of actually moving to New Hampshire brings up excitement, uncertainty, and so many new questions!

How can I find communities with a reasonable commute that fit my budget and lifestyle?  What is the current housing market and how many choices will we have? What kinds of employment and career opportunities are there? Where is public or private school information available? What do you do in the wintertime in New Hampshire, anyway? Are there fun things to do?  Good places to eat? Decent cell reception?

Boasting an excellent quality of life within an hour of Boston, the Atlantic Ocean, and the mountains - Southern New Hampshire is an attractive growth center for New England.  Since 2000, New Hampshire gained 35,000 new residents moving in from other states.

Deciding where to live is about more than rankings and statistics, this choice is more about getting a good match for your personality, comfort and pocketbook.  Start with a list – what do you need to be near?

Based on this list, what are your 'must haves' and what are your 'nice to haves' ?  This exercise and a good map (along with the help of a NH real estate agent) will help to define a circle of communities to explore. In any part of southern New Hampshire you will find a mix of small cities, suburban towns and rural areas.  Our largest city is Manchester NH with approximately 100,000 people, and within 20 minutes you can be in a small town of 2,000 people.

Next, to expand or contract your initial circle – look at housing costs, styles, sizes and price ranges. Of course, Verani.com is updated with new listings and scads of photos every day! You may notice that regional housing trends are unfamiliar, especially if you are coming from the West Coast or the Southern states. This is an area where a New Hampshire real estate agent can be of great value.

New Hampshire trends:
New Hampshire homes tend to be on larger lots (1+ acres) when they are serviced by well water and a septic system. Two-story styles are common, as are oil heat, full basements, and back decks. Central air, in-ground pools and spa bathroom suites exist but they are not the prevailing standard. New Construction subdivisions may include 15 to 30 homes sites set near long established areas. Over 55 and Senior Housing is really coming in strong with many new developments to explore. Condominium housing has shared land and amenities but can offer large or small units, old or new, attached or detached style homes. In other words, there is something for everyone. Housing prices are influenced by our proximity to Boston, so finding the balance between commute and cost is key!

New Hampshire schools:

Schools are probably the most popular research topic for future NH residents.  Public education is supported by 88 local town and regional school districts.  There is a selection of private elementary and secondary schools, including Philips Exeter Academy and St. Paul‘s School.  More than 30 colleges, universities and technical colleges are located in the state, including the highly rated Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire. The NH Dept. of Education has an informative state website and several good resources are gathered there. 

You can also instantly view school data for any home listed on Verani.com!

Still wondering which schools are the best?  That decision is a blend of both objective and subjective research.  Like the Oscars, you may or may not agree with someone else’s rating system.  Fair Housing, professional ethics and common sense preclude us from making such a personal choice for you.  Bottom line? Get data, ask questions and arrange to visit any school districts you are considering. 

Another thing to do to help manage your move:

• Contact the Prudential Verani Relocation team at 877-787-RELO.

We will discuss your needs and timing and introduce you to a certified Relocation Specialist.

Information on this page provided by Brenda Carey, Director of Relocation Services with Prudential Verani Realty in Londonderry, NH. She is responsible for assisting employers and individuals with relocation services not only in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, but throughout the United States.