What tips do you have for long distance Huntington Beach house hunting?

January 9, 2025  |  714-336-0394  |  Scot@CampbellRealtors.com | Broker of Record – Coldwell Banker-Campbell Realtors 

Here are some Tips for Relocating and Buying a Home in Huntington Beach at the Same Time

Relocating and buying a home simultaneously might feel overwhelming, especially when you’re house hunting from afar. Huntington Beach’s beautiful coastal lifestyle makes it a dream destination for many, but how do you ensure you find the right home and neighborhood remotely? Whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or retirement, here are five practical tips to streamline the process and make your move to Huntington Beach as smooth as possible.

1. Know What You Want

Before diving into research, get crystal clear on your non-negotiables for your new home and neighborhood. Huntington Beach has a variety of communities—from beachside neighborhoods like Downtown and Sunset Beach to family-friendly areas like Goldenwest and Huntington Harbour. Decide on the must-haves that matter most to you:

• Home Features: How many bedrooms & baths? Do you need a big lot, small lot, 3 car garage, pool/spa, one story? A backyard for entertaining? Modern finishes, newer construction, move-in ready, or fixer?
• Neighborhood Essentials: Are you looking for proximity to the beach, schools, parks, shopping, Central Park, Senior Center, or running trails?
• Lifestyle Factors: Will you feel happiest within walking distance of the beach, Pacific City, Main Street’s shops, the Pier, and restaurants, or do you prefer a quieter location with minimal traffic?

Defining these priorities upfront will help you narrow your search and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

2. Research the Neighborhoods

House hunting remotely requires extensive research, and the internet is your best friend. Start with a city map of Huntington Beach to pinpoint neighborhoods that align with your must-haves. Then dig deeper:

• Crime Rates and Schools: Even if you don’t have children, areas with good schools retain higher property values. Check resources like GreatSchools.org.
• Community Vibe: Visit local forums like Nextdoor or Facebook neighborhood groups. Ask questions about traffic, local amenities, community events, and dining options. Residents often share candid insights you won’t find in a brochure.
• Local News and Blogs: Follow local news outlets or lifestyle blogs that cover Huntington Beach events and trends.

Understanding the vibe of each neighborhood will give you confidence when deciding on your new home from afar.

3. Hire a Real Estate Agent Who Knows Huntington Beach Relocations

The right real estate agent will be your greatest asset during this process. Look for a professional with specific experience in relocations and deep knowledge of Huntington Beach’s communities. A relocation-focused agent can:

• Help you compare neighborhoods like Downtown Huntington Beach, Seacliff, Huntington Harbour, Edwards Hill, South Huntington Beach, Summerlane, Bolsa Landmark, Huntington Park & Place, and Brightwater.
• Provide insights on commute times, traffic, and nearby amenities.
• Offer virtual tours and guide you through homes via video chat if you can’t visit in person.

Your agent should act as part advisor, part problem-solver—someone who’s willing to go the extra mile to ensure you feel confident about your decision.

Tip: Ask about relocation services they provide, such as connecting you with moving companies or temporary housing options.

Important tip:  Do not assume listing with a big “team” or “group” will result in you working with the most knowledgeable and experienced agent.  While the “teams” tout their success in closing many homes and being #1 (in the state, country, or universe), the fact is they have many realtors who give “credit” to just one “team leader”.  When listing your home, you may speak to that team leader initially, but your file will most likely be passed to a junior associate for the remainder of the transaction. The junior associate will have nowhere near the education, experience, and skill to be found in a top individual Realtor working in your market. A top individual agent will have assistants that help with photography, marketing, and transaction paperwork, but the important transaction tasks will be handled by the Realtor you hired!