by AINSLEY LAWRENCE
So, you’re planning a move to the South. First of all, smart idea.
Second? As with any move to a different location, there are things you should know before you go. Preparing yourself as much as possible will make the transition easier for you and your family.
If you’re moving from a northern state, some of the changes you’ll experience will be subtle or easy to adapt to. For example, the language differences. Get used to a lot of “ya’lls.” But, if it’s overwhelming at first, don’t worry. You’ll be speaking like a Southerner in no time.
Accents, dialects, the pace of life, and the cuisine are all different from what you might be used to. But, those things are just the tip of the iceberg, and you’ll adjust to them the longer you live here. What really matters is what you should know before you make that move, and how to do it the right way.
Location Matters
The importance of location isn’t just something real estate agents throw around to sell houses faster. It’s actually a crucial component of any home-buying experience. Because the South covers such a large area, you’ll experience different things depending on where you choose to live.
Does the sound of gentle ocean waves sound relaxing? Consider scooping up a beachfront property on the Atlantic coast. Buying a home on the beach offers so many incredible benefits, including:
- Beautiful views
- Recreational opportunities
- Tax deductions
- A therapeutic atmosphere
Beachfront properties can be a bit pricey, but well worth it if you’re looking for a place to escape.
If going off the grid and enjoying something a bit quieter sounds appealing, consider jumping into the tiny home trend in a wooded area, or even a tiny home community.
It’s also important to consider your family when you’re searching for the right location. Places like Myrtle Beach are great for families who like to stay active and try new things. Take a look at the entire Coastal South for beautiful beaches, wildlife, and unique activities that will never get old. Or, go further inland for charming communities, wooded areas, and locations that can make you feel like you’re stepping back into a history book – in the best way possible.
The Homes are Beautiful – But Which is Right for You?
Speaking of history, many traditional-looking Southern homes were built between 1830-1860. That doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of modern architecture or new construction. But, if you’re looking for a slice of the past, it’s not difficult to find a home that is over 100 years old.
Houses that fall into that timeframe are beautiful and charming. But, they may also need some work. Older homes may have been constructed with hazardous materials, such as asbestos. It was a common building and insulation material until the 1970s and has been linked to various respiratory issues, including lung cancer. Other potential dangers in old homes include:
- Clay pipes
- Lead paint
- Non-grounded outlets
- Galvanized plumbing
If you’re interested in an older home and an inspection reveals any of these issues, hiring a professional to take care of them right away will offer you peace of mind.
It’s also important to make sure the framework and foundation of the home are secure. If you plan on moving to the Coastal South, you could be in prime territory for hurricanes. In that case, strengthening and reinforcing the home’s structure is crucial. Installing things like hurricane windows will allow you to keep the house safe and secure without having to take away from its old Southern charm. The longer you live in the South, the easier things like hurricane and flood preparedness will become.
An Area Steeped in Tradition
If there’s one thing Southerners love more than sweet tea, it’s tradition. Throughout the South, you’ll find rich history everywhere. Many of those traditions have to do with holidays, but some are just everyday mannerisms that can’t be changed, including:
- Eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day
- Drinking a mint julep during the Kentucky derby
- Traditional Southern hospitality
- Bridal luncheons
- Passionate football seasons
Some Southern traditions can be a bit surprising to Northerners at first. But, you’ll quickly find that most of them are rooted in fun, friendship, family, and food. What’s not to love about that?
If you move to the South and get settled into your new place, take the time to build relationships with people. You’ll quickly be introduced to some of the best traditions this area of the country has to offer, and you’ll see why the people here have so much pride.
There is a need in the real estate market right now. Many people are relocating to the outh, whether it’s for a job or just a change of pace. As buyer demand grows, sellers are starting to slow. So, if you’re planning on making a move, now is the time to start looking at houses. With a little bit of browsing, you could find your perfect home in no time, and start adjusting to the Southern way of life.
