Relocating into any new town or city can be daunting, whether it’s an hour away or across the country. Moving to Bozeman, Montana doesn’t have to be discouraging, and we are here to help you with some tried and true advice from active members of our community!

Research the Community
When it comes to buying and selling homes and moving into a new community, the process from start to finish usually will take some time. There are several planning steps involved that can actually help you with settling in before you even buy your new property! Whatever spurs the move, may it be relocating for a new job or simply wanting to be closer to relatives, researching the area is a great starting point for the decision-making process of where to settle down. Buying a new home will always have many factors to consider including the real estate market, school districts, and even the nature of the neighborhoods. You might find the perfect house well within your budget with limited covenants but it might fall into a school district that would send your kiddos to a school in the next town over. The best way to navigate issues that may arise is simply coming to visit your future new town and community in person to get a sense of what your life would be like there. When it comes to the details about the real estate market, do as Tyler Garrison says, "Find a good, no, a great REALTOR!". Working directly with a certified Realtor will be advantageous to your search to reach all your requirements that their expertise can cover. When it comes to research, we have your back! Check out our Bozeman, Belgrade, Livingston, Big Sky, and Ennis community pages for fast facts, live market stats, and amenities.

Immerse Yourself
Once you have made the big step and have moved into your new community, getting a sense of belonging and purpose will give you the best peace of mind and help you feel all settled in. The number one way to achieve this belonging and purpose? Volunteer! When you look to the different organizations out there in need of an extra set of hands, you will be able to find several that align with your beliefs and lifestyle where you will easily fit right into. ERA Landmark wants nothing more than to give back to our community as much as we can reaching to the many associations across Southwest Montana. To help you on your search for our area, check out ERA Cares to learn more about how you can help out as well. Our agent Lena Mansour is entirely right explaining about volunteering, "Find non-profits to volunteer with that align with your passions. Not only does this provide an opportunity to give back to the community, but also to meet new people and make friends!". As you begin to work with the organizations, it’s a guarantee that you will meet other individuals who also share these common interests with you! Meeting people and making relatable connections is the fastest way to create lasting friendships. Don’t stop at volunteering - joining clubs, playing intramural sports, even sitting on your neighborhood HOA council will not only keep you busy, but you will surround yourself with all sorts of members of your community! Jon Ellen Snyder found it helpful to go beyond and help with bigger projects, "I volunteered to help non-profit groups with their special events and committees!"

"Get involved in the community! It was super helpful for me to
volunteer with organizations such as Eagle Mount and Wave Train.
I have formed lasting friendships and really got to know the area."
- Amanda Weber

The definition of a community can be broad depending on how big of a city you’re moving to, but just looking next door is a great place to start. Introducing yourself and interacting with your next-door neighbors is highly suggested. You never know when you’ll need to borrow a cup of sugar or have someone housesit for a weekend. Sending out a simple introduction postcard to the houses on your block is a fun way of breaking the ice. If you wanted to take it to the next level, coordinating a block party potluck event is fun for all ages and can get everyone involved.

"Take time to explore the community. Southwest Montana has so
many delightful shops, restaurants, recreation, and events. You are
sure to find some hidden treasures and wonderful people. There is
truly something for everyone!" - Jessie Sarrazin

When you are ready to expand your range into the community around town, simply do what the locals do. Visiting and supporting the local small businesses is one of the fastest ways to learn who’s who and what’s what and keeping it local is very important for communities. Once you learn about the different hangouts and best places to hike, fish, walk your dog, or get ice cream, you will be living the full experience that a community can offer. 

You don’t have to rely on yourself to get to know the area with a big move. There are many outreach programs as well as visitor’s centers that specialize in those new to a community. Check out your local Chamber of Commerce for all the free handout publications to help you with the whole process.

Bozeman Chamber of Commerce  Livingston Chamber of Commerce  Big Sky Chamber of Commerce  Ennis Chamber of Commerce