Headed Back into the Office? You May Decide to Move

Headed Back into the Office? You May Decide to Move

It’s no secret that remote work has surged over the last few years, giving many people the freedom to live and work from anywhere. But now, as more companies require employees to return to the office, many workers are rethinking where they live—and whether they need to move.

How Return-to-Work Policies Are Impacting Housing

During the peak of remote work, employees took advantage of the flexibility, moving away from crowded urban areas in favor of larger homes in suburban or rural locations. However, as in-office policies take effect, many are reconsidering their living situations.

According to Bright MLS, more than half of surveyed workers would have to rethink their housing options or endure long commutes if their employer enforced a return-to-office policy.

If you moved farther from the city when remote work was the norm, you may now be facing a commute you never planned to make daily. While some may adjust to the new routine, for others, the added time and costs make moving closer to work a more appealing option.

As Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:
"During the pandemic, when remote work became the norm, homebuyers were able to move farther out . . . But workers do not have the same flexibility that they used to, and some are going to have to make a tough choice if and when their employer calls them back into the office full-time."

Thinking of Moving? Here’s How an Agent Can Help

If you’re struggling with a long commute or feeling uncertain about your current location, don’t stress—there are options. A real estate agent can help you:

• Find a home closer to work that fits your budget and lifestyle.
• Balance commute time with affordability to make a smart investment.
• Sell your current home and transition smoothly to a new location.

Bottom Line

If returning to the office has you considering a move, let’s connect. I can help you explore your options and find the best place to fit your evolving work-life needs. Contact me today at 480-775-7700 or by email bret@renetgroup.com to get started.

Where do you see yourself living if your commute or work routine needs to change?

Reference:
This summary is based on insights from Bret Johnson, Associate Broker at Realty Network Group at Real Broker and Keeping Current Matters. For the full article, visit Real Estate with Bret Johnson.