XP: Relocation Questions

[just]

I have a second face-to-face interview in a couple of weeks in a city that I've never been to. My DH can't come for that visit. No kids, no plans (to get knocked up). I'll have about 8 hours to 'explore'. The hirers are asking if they can organize anything for that time - rent a car/make an appointment with a realtor/ etc.

I don't know what to ask for. I've already done tons of research on realty in the city, and I know the areas that I'm interested, the costs, so I'm unsure what a realtor could do at this point (pre offer). Also it seems weird to meet with someone on a Sunday when they have no guarantee that I'll be moving and if I do, if I'll choose them.

We're also hoping to be a one/no car family, which is possible based on the location of the hirer, and property prices, so I don't know if a rental car would help. I'm also not a super confident driver.

I'm guessing that I'll just go for a long walk - check out the 2/3 neighborhoods we're interested in, hang out down town and get a 'feel' for the city.

What am I missing? Is there something else I could ask for?

[just]

Oct 30, 2014 3:44:54 GMT -5 RockNVoll said:

Just say what city it is so we can give better advice.

I wouldn't assume you know the neighborhoods and what they're all about. Take the rental and drive around to different areas (assuming it's not too hard to park or have them cover the cost of lots), get out of the car and walk around and see how you like the feel of each.

It's DD*.

[drloretta]

Definitely take advantage of a realtor to see what houses are like in the areas you're interested in. You can get an idea of what homes are like and if the reality on the ground is what you expect. IMO there's nothing wrong with taking them up on an offer to help you out while you're there, even if you ultimately don't take the job.

[jerseyjaybird]

I'd probably take them up on the offer to meet with a realtor. Remember, this is someone used to working weekends and to spending time on transactions and clients that don't pan out . . . it's par for the course for him/her. I relocated from Seattle to NJ a few years ago, and I knew this part of NJ fairly well already and have friends and family in the area . . . still, my relator (suggested by my employer as someone great for relocations) introduced me to neighborhoods I never would have found on my own, and I LOVE where I live. She also made some great restaurant suggestions.