To Sell or Not to Sell yet (Houston, Dallas: real estate, lease)

[mariyumm]

We have decided to start job hunting in Texas... still undecided on whether to go to Midland TX or Houston TX.

We have 3 children (10,6 autism and 3 yrs old) .... a 3mth old dog and own a house

NJ has become so expensive that we work to pay the monthly bills and no room to save a dime or we have to push a bill to the next month and hope for the best.

We are in a bind on whether to find a job then sell our home and move
Or should we sell our home, find a job then move

Also, I dont know if its better to rent once we are there or buy a home.

In that sense Im confused because we dont know what is best to do.

Our real estate agent said if we put our house on the market that she can sell it in less than 6 months but what if we have not found jobs or a home.

Any ideas, links or suggestions is greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Mariam

[FarNorthDallas]

Midland or Houston. That's a big difference! If it were me I'd sell the house first, then come to Texas, look for jobs and rent for a year or possible 6 months.

I wonder if you would get better autism services in Houston? Have you researched that?

[Cybersimple]

I used to live in Ocean TWP and Long Branch, NJ. My relatives still reside in NJ and visit once a year. I love to move back to NJ but your situation applies, EXPENSIVE, so I decided to settle down in El Paso, TX and live comfortably. Currently, Oean TWP small houses ranging at $35K, El Paso same or bigger houses at $15K. I did my math.
I understand your situation and it will be a pretty tuff decision. Have you already visited Midland or Houston? It's a big difference as mentioned by FarNorthDallas. Midland offers a cheaper rent/house but it is a small city with limited things to do. Houston is a huge city and cost of living is not much different than NJ.
These are things to consider: 1. Job search - your professional position may not available in Midland since it is a small city. 2. Visit the cities and do the demographic research. 3. Check health care services - Austism service availability. 4. Budget the moving cost and figure in an additional unforeseen cost.
I would hold off on selling/buying a home until your are completely satisfy with new location. Rent a house/apt for 6 to 12 months and become familiar with new area and lease out your home in NJ. This way is an insurance where you have a place to fall back when things doesn't work out as planned. Buying a house is big investment and careful decision is needed especially in a unfamiliar area. Don't try to jump into a house too quick - quickness may empty out your pocket!