Relocating to another state is exciting but it also requires careful planning, especially when it comes to buying a new home. At Onshore Mortgage, LLC, we specialize in helping Massachusetts and Rhode Island buyers make smooth, stress-free moves across state lines.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to moving to another state, starting with the most important first step: getting pre-approved for your mortgage.

Step 1: Get Preapproved for Your Mortgage

‍Before you start planning moving dates or packing boxes, the first thing you should do is get preapproved for a mortgage on your new home.

A strong preapproval:

• Tells you exactly what you can afford
• Makes your offer more attractive to sellers and Realtors
• Helps the transaction move faster when you find the right home
• Reduces stress later in the process
• Gives you an estimate for closing costs

At Onshore Mortgage, LLC, we make preapproval simple — even for clients buying homes in a different state. Whether you're purchasing a primary residence, second home, or investment property, we’ll walk you through your options and help you find the right loan program for your situation.

👉 Apply for mortgage pre-approval today!

Step 2: Create a Moving Timeline

Once you’re pre-approved, you’ll have a better understanding of when you can shop for homes and what timeframe youll be able to close by. At this stage, it's important to:

• Set your ideal move-in date
• Align your home search and closing timeline with your moving plans
• Allow extra time for selling your current home (if needed)

Having a clear timeline helps you stay organized and avoid last-minute stress during your interstate move.

Step 3: Research Your New Area

Get familiar with your new city or town before you move:

• Explore neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle
• Research local schools, parks, healthcare providers, and shopping areas
• Check commute times if you’ll be working in the area
• Compare the cost of living to your current location

The more you know about your new community, the more confident you'll feel choosing the perfect home.

Step 4: Budget for Your Moving Costs

Moving out of state comes with additional expenses. Common costs to budget for include:

• Professional movers or rental trucks
• Temporary housing or storage units
• Utility setup fees (Gas, Cable, Electric, Phone)
• Travel expenses (gas, hotels, , flights and meals)

Having a moving budget in place ensures that you’re financially prepared every step of the way.

👉 Helpful Tip: Some mortgage programs allow you to roll certain closing costs into your loan. Ask Onshore Mortgage about your options!

Step 5: Start Packing Early

Packing early helps you avoid last-minute chaos. Begin by boxing up non-essential items like seasonal decorations, old files, and off-season clothing. Label your boxes clearly and keep important documents and valuables separate.

If you're hiring professional movers, book them as soon as you have your closing date.

Step 6: Update Your Address and Important Records

Don’t forget to update your personal information before moving day:

• Forward your mail through USPS
• Update your address with banks, credit cards, insurance providers, and subscriptions
• Transfer utilities (internet, electric, gas, water)
• Register your car and update your driver’s license in your new state
• Enroll your children in new schools if applicable

Step 7: Finalize Moving Day Logistics

Double-check all the details leading up to your move:

• Confirm moving truck reservations or moving company schedules
• Pack a “first night” bag with essentials (clothes, toiletries, chargers)
• Arrange for pet transportation if necessary
• Set up utilities to begin service the day you move in (Gas, Electric, Cable)

Step 8: Move In and Celebrate Your New Start

Once you arrive, unpack your essentials first and settle into your new community. Take time to explore your neighborhood, meet new neighbors, and make your house feel like home.

Starting your relocation with a mortgage pre-approval ensures a smoother, less stressful move. At Onshore Mortgage, LLC, we help you check off the most important item on your relocation checklist: securing your financing early. With a strong preapproval in hand, you’ll be ready to shop with confidence, make competitive offers, and transition seamlessly into your new home. Let us guide you through every step of the process — so you can focus on your fresh start.

✅ Get pre-approved fast
✅ Navigate the interstate buying process
✅ Close on time — and stress-free
✅ Start your new chapter with confidence

Let’s make your move easy and successful.