6 Things to Know Before Moving to Texas

If you're considering buying a new home in Texas, there are many things to consider before moving to the Lone Star state. Below are many laws, activities, and things to know before transitioning to Texas. Research and brush up on these pointers before purchasing a home in this state.

1. Consider Texas Home Prices (Which are Currently Rising)

Texas home prices will also differ depending on location - home values in Houston have increased by almost 8% in the last year alone. With so many people moving to Texas, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the different home prices in Texas and choose a neighborhood where home prices are affordable and not at their peak. Being smart about your Texas home purchase can help you find a home that builds equity fast and is worth the investment.

2. Texas Crime Rates Differ By Location

Crime in Texas will differ depending on which part of the state you move to. For instance, in the first five months of 2019, almost 91,000 crimes were reported to the Houston Police Department. However, Trophy Club and Fulshear are considered some of Texas's safest cities with low crime rates. Suburban areas and rural towns often report fewer incidents, making them attractive to families or individuals seeking a quieter, safer lifestyle. Thoroughly research the area of Texas you will move to and consider the crime rates in order to get an idea of the safest cities in Texas. Tools like online crime maps, local law enforcement reports, and community reviews can offer valuable insights. Additionally, consider factors such as neighborhood watch programs, the presence of nearby law enforcement agencies, and the overall community atmosphere to ensure your new home aligns with your safety expectations.

3. The Weather in Texas Varies Greatly By Region

Texas is a vast state with many different climate regions. For example, the Gulf Coast region has hot and humid summers with mild winters, while West Texas is arid with temperatures ranging from below freezing in the winter to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Keep this in mind when buying a home, and prepare your home so you can save on energy bills during the peak of summer and winter. According to Rpsc.energy.gov, upgrading your HVAC unit is one of the best ways to improve your energy use: almost 50% for electric and 10% for gas.

4. There Are Lots of Unique Things to Do in Texas

Whether you love the outdoors, want to experience world-class museums, or enjoy live music, there's something for everyone in Texas. For instance, Houston is home to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Johnson Space Center, while Austin is known for its live music scene and annual festivals like SXSW. There are also many state parks and natural attractions to explore in Texas. Big Bend National Park, for instance, is a huge park that covers over 800,000 acres and features beautiful desert landscapes.

5. There Are Many Different Types of Homes Available in Texas

From ranches and country homes to urban apartments and condos, a wide range of housing options are available in Texas. If you’re considering the Houston area, you might want to Find an apartment in Woodland Houston TX to enjoy a blend of urban and suburban living. It's essential to figure out what type of home you're looking for and where you want to live before beginning your home search.

6. Texas Has a Diverse Population

Texas is a culturally diverse area where you can feel at home with a rich melting pot of people. One thing that makes Texas so unique is its diverse population. According to the most recent census data, over 28% of Texans are Hispanic or Latino, and almost 13% of the population is African American. According to new Census data, nearly 31 million people moved to the United States in 2019, many of whom moved to Texas due to its friendly immigration laws. There are also significant populations of Asian Americans, Native Americans, and people of European descent living in Texas.

Now that you know a little bit more about what to expect when moving to Texas, you can start researching different areas of the state and begin looking for your new home. Remember to take your time, ask lots of questions, and thoroughly explore any area you're considering moving to. Once you've found the perfect place to call home, you can start enjoying all Texas offers.