Published
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Written by
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Edited by Jenny Rollins
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Reviewed by Steve Nicastro
Written by Stephanie Mickelson
Edited by Jenny Rollins
Reviewed by Steve Nicastro
What do relocation experts do? | Types | Cost | Find a relocation specialist
A relocation expert is a real estate agent who offers additional services to help homeowners buy a new home, sell their old one, and get settled in a new city. Relocation realtors can work independently or as part of a relocation company.
Relocation realtors can help sell your house fast and offer logistical support for moving with children and pets, coordinating packing and moving services, setting up local utilities, and more.
If you’re working full time, have kids or pets, or need help getting organized, your relocation specialist can take on many time-consuming tasks so you focus on other things. They may also refer you to vendors (like movers) who can offer better rates.
What do relocation experts do?
| What realtors do | How relocation experts help |
|---|---|
|
|
❌ What relocation experts DON’T do
- Find a job for your spouse
- Babysit
- Run errands
- Unpack and clean
Types of relocation specialists
Relocation specialists can hold three main certifications or designations:
🚛 A Certified Relocation Professional (CRP) typically works with domestic moves. They are skilled at coordinating services between different vendors, like moving companies, and can help you manage the logistics of the move. They’ll also be experts on the local neighborhood you’re moving to and can offer insights into schools and amenities to help choose the right area.
✈️ A Global Mobility Specialist (GMS) aids in international relocations. They’re often hired by a company for corporate moves of individuals or teams. They provide guidance and resources for obtaining visas and passports and get you acquainted with your new country.
🎖A Military Relocation Professional (MRP) works with current and former military personnel moving to a new station. They are knowledgeable about military moving procedures and policies and can help with VA financing.
How much do relocation experts cost?
If the military or your employer is coordinating your move, it’ll cover any fees related to a relocation expert, as well as moving expenses. If your agent is also acting as your relocation expert, they likely won’t charge any more than the standard realtor commission (5–6% of your home’s final sales price).
You’ll still have to pay for moving services: packing and moving, cleaning services, pet boarding, etc. But relocation experts may offer discounts for working with their partners when scheduling services.
How to find a relocation specialist
Ask your employer
If you’re moving for work or with the military, the company or resource center can often recommend a relocation specialist or even be able to line one up for you.
» FIND: Local Military Relocation Assistance Programs
Ask friends and family
Friends or family members who have moved long distance could recommend relocation services. Just remember that what worked for one person may not work for you, so make sure the specialist is a good fit and communicates well with you.
Use a free referral service
Contacting a company like Clever Real Estate, Ideal Agent, or UpNest is a great option because you can request a real estate agent based on your specific needs. For instance, you can request an agent with expert credentials, with experience helping families move long distances, or with lots of experience in your new location.
All you do is provide basic information about what you’re looking for and where you’re moving, and you’ll match with multiple agents that meet your criteria. From there, you can vet and interview them and choose the best fit.
What’s more, agents from discount brokerages will list your home for half the cost of a typical realtor, and you could even get cash back toward buying your next home.
» Connect with Clever to find relocation experts today!
Choosing a relocation expert
- Ask which certifications they hold, and verify them on the NAR and WorldWide ERC databases.
- Discuss how many years they’ve worked as a relocation specialist, and compare their local expertise and experience with moving logistics.
- Read online reviews to see how they’ve interacted with customers in the past. Active on their social media accounts can show their dedication to their profession.
Related reading
How to Find a Real Estate Agent in 2023. The best way to find a real estate agent is through a trusted source. We break down how to find a realtor that’s the right fit for you.
31 Tips for Moving with Kids. Moving is stressful, but moving with kids can be especially tough. Read our 31 tips on how to successfully move with children.
Military For Sale By Owner: Is It REALLY Worth It? Considering military for sale by owner? This guide addresses the pros and cons of military FSBO and provides helpful resources.
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