Things to consider when relocating Published Oct. 18, 2010 By Richard Tomaskovic 17th Force Support Squadron GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- A successful move isn't a matter of chance. It takes planning and hard work and at the center of these efforts is you. If you expect a good move, you must play an active role before and after your move. Consider the following when relocating. Out of pocket expenses Ones budget seems to become extended during the last days of preparing to move -- buying fast food, paying someone to watch the children, running extra errands and using more fuel than usual. Additional purchases are sometimes made during this time, since many items were packed and are no longer handy. To deal with these costs, it's a good idea to build an extra $300-$400 into a budget during this period. Dual careers A spouse's salary and benefits could be eliminated or diminished because of a move. Dual career families may need assistance to transfer or reestablish a working partner's career at a new location. Members who have a second job can also lose that income when relocating. Children Parents need to know how to identify and deal with adjustment problems. Our smallest movers adapt at different speeds and in different ways. Children who frequently relocate repeat grades more often and experience more behavioral problems. It's important that children have the guidance to realize a positive transition to a new location. Selecting schools and daycare Parents need to be aware of the educational options for any location. Get information to build an understanding of the new educational systems and day care facilities as well as the costs. Career planning Members relocating need to understand their new position, title and authority and the impact it has on their career planning and timelines. Questions to consider include: Will it benefit their career or stagnate it? What are the temporary duty and mobility requirements and how will they affect the family? Mortgage issues Homeowners should prepare to sell their home well in advance or research the laws and requirements for renting the property. They should also understand the cost comparisons between the locations. A homeowner should give the right people power of attorney in case they are not there to make arrangements or complete contracts. Single parents Military members are required to have child providers, a support system and dependable help for routine, emergency or deployment situations. This may involve travel expenses which should be included in the emergency savings budget. It may also require flexible hours and a commitment to a long-term assignment. The gaining unit will assign the servicemember a sponsor who should contact him weeks in advance of the reporting date. A sponsor provides helpful information when it comes to arranging a smooth move. Servicemembers who haven't heard from their sponsor within a reasonable time frame should contact their new unit. The Airman and Family Readiness Center can is here to assist with many matters concerning relocating. For more information contact your installtion AFRC.