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Why this matters
Verification is the cheapest step in a relocation and the one most often skipped under time pressure. Nearly everything on this list can be confirmed in writing before you close.
Financial obligations
- Total property tax rate, including any special district components.
- HOA dues, transfer fees, and what they include.
- Any assessment, bond, or district obligation attached to the property.
- Insurance quotes for the specific address, not a regional estimate.
Physical and environmental
- Flood designation for the parcel and recent history in the area.
- Drainage and grading, ideally observed during or after rain.
- Utility providers, service reliability, and connection status.
- Age and condition of major systems, and remaining warranty coverage.
Community and schools
- Current school assignment confirmed directly with the district.
- Whether attendance boundaries are under review.
- Amenity status: built, under construction, or planned.
- Rules that affect daily life — parking, fencing, short-term rentals.
Get it in writing
Verbal assurances from any party, however well-intentioned, are not verification. Ask for the document, the district statement, the plat, the warranty, or the district office confirmation.
Play Summary
- 1Verification is inexpensive relative to the cost of being wrong.
- 2Tax and district obligations belong in your monthly math, not a footnote.
- 3Confirm school assignment with the district, for the exact address.
- 4If it matters, get it in writing.
Before moving on…
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