Buying a House From Out of State? Here’s What You Need to Know

House hunting is stressful enough when you’re just moving across town, but what if your dream home is out of state, hundreds or thousands of miles away?

Whether you’ve decided to relocate for a new job, better weather, chasing a lower cost of living in retirement, or to finally be close to family, buying a home in another state with its own unique set of challenges. 

How do you tour homes when you’re miles away? Who can you trust to guide you through the process? And how do you make sure you don’t end up with a case of “buyer’s remorse” before you’ve even unpacked?

Luckily, long-distance home buying doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With virtual tours, expert local agents, and smart planning, you can confidently find and buy the right home out of state. All without the stress of feeling like you’re flying blind. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make your out-of-state home purchase smooth, strategic, and (dare we say?) even exciting.

Assessing Your Motivation and Readiness To Purchasing a Home Out of State

Before you dive into online listings looking for your dream home in a different state, you must be certain that you are financially, logistically, and emotionally ready to make this humungous move. Take a step back and evaluate if now is the right time for you to pack up and buy. Here’s what you should consider:

Why Are You Moving? (And Is It the Right Move?)

No two out-of-state relocators have the same motive. People buy homes from out of state for all sorts of reasons –some are practical or personal, others financial or professional. What matters most is taking the time to reflect before making a big decision. Ask yourself: Is this move right for me? Here are some of the most common reasons people relocate:

Job Relocation: Moving for a new job? You’re not alone. Data from Challenger, Gray & Christmas revealed that 2.4% of all U.S. job seekers relocated for new positions in the first quarter of 2024. When buying a house in another state due to a new job, be sure the salary bump actually offsets any cost-of-living increases.

Cost of Living: Cutting every day expenses is a huge motivation to buying a house in different state. If your current city is breaking the bank, a move to a more affordable state could be a smart financial decision.

Retirement: Warm weather, lower taxes, an abundance of senior living options, and a slower pace of life are big draws for retirees. If you’re moving out of state for this reason, research the best states for retirement in the United States. 

Family: Whether it’s being closer to family (or getting some distance), helping aging parents, or raising your kiddos near their grandparents, personal ties play a massive role in moving decisions.

Lifestyle Upgrade: Want a bigger home, better schools, or just a change of scenery? A move can be the reset you need.

Education: Attending college, pursuing specialized training, or finding better schools for their children are all top reasons to plan a long-distance move. It is no secrete that some states have better-funded public schools and universities than others, making them attractive for families and students.

Lifestyle Changes: Some homebuyers crave a change of scenery, like moving from a large metro area to the suburbs (or vice versa), seeking a slower pace of life, or looking for outdoor-friendly locations with more recreational opportunities for themselves or their families.

Better Weather: When people get tired of brutal winters, extreme heat, or the contant menace of hurricanes, storms, or tornadoes, they often decide to buy a house in another state that has either milder or more desirable climate. A classic example? Northerners escaping to Florida to avoid snow.

Remote Work Flexibility: As more companies allow remote work, employees aren’t tied to specific job locations anymore. That’s why many of them decide to buy a house in another state where they can enjoy a better quality of life.

Health Reasons: Air quality, access to better healthcare, or even needing a warmer climate for medical conditions (like arthritis) can drive a move to another state.

Are You Financially Ready to Buy Out of State?

Moving out of state is a whole different ballgame than moving across town. To avoid financial surprises, make sure you have all your financial ducks in a row before you start house hunting online. Here’s what you need to have:

A Solid Budget For Buying and Moving

A home’s price tag isn’t the only expense you need to factor in. Here’s what should be in your budget:

• Down Payment: While downpayments can range from 3% to 20% of the home’s purchase price, depending on your loan type, the typical downpayment for a first-time homebuyer in he U.S. is 8% according to the according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
• Closing Costs: Usually closing costs range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount, covering lender fees, title insurance, escrow fees, and other fees and obligations.

• Property Taxes: Rates vary by state, so check the local tax rates in your relocation area before committing to the house purchase.

• Homeowners Insurance: The costs of homeowner’s insurance depend on the house location; states like Florida, for example, tend to have higher insurance rates due to natural disasters.

• HOA Fees: If your new home is in a community with a homeowners association, you should budget for monthly or yearly fees and be ready to comply with all their rules.

• Utilities & Setup Costs: Some areas require deposits for utilities, like setting up water, electricity, and internet. The deposits also depend on provider policies and customer’s credit history. 

• Moving Expenses: The American Moving and Storage Association estimates that the average cost of an interstate move is about $4,300, though the price can vary widely. Factors such as distance, household size, and selected services influence the final cost, which typically falls between $2,000 and $8,000. Aside from the long-distance movers, you need to budget for transportation, temporary lodging, and storage.

A Mortgage Pre-Approval

A mortgage pre-approval is a must before you start shopping for homes, especially from out of state. It tells sellers that you’re serious and financially capable of buying. To get pre-approved, you’ll need:

A good credit score 

Most lenders require a credit of 620 points or higher for conventional loans, and 580 points or higher for FHA loans; but the higher, the better.

Proof of income 

In order to get loan pre-approval be ready to present documents such as W-2s, tax returns, pay stubs, or profit/loss statements if you are self-employed.

Employment verification

Your lender would look if you have a reliable income to repay the mortgage. They may check that you have a stable job. This is even more important if you’re planning on moving for work. If you’re relocating but keeping your job, some lenders may require proof that you’ll continue earning the same income in the new state.

Debt-to-income ratio (DTI)

Most lenders prefer below 43%, meaning your monthly debt payments (including mortgage, car loans, student loans, and credit card payments) shouldn’t exceed 43% of your income. This may vary on specific loan and lender types. 

Proof of assets 

You’ll need to present recent bank statements, investments, or gift letters for your down payment.

State-Specific Financial Factors

Buying a home isn’t a one-size-fits-all process, especially when you’re crossing state lines. Every state has its own set of rules, costs, and quirks when it comes to real estate transactions, so even if you have an agent, doing your homework beforehand is key.

Start by researching local market trends in your target area. Are home prices on the rise, or is the market starting to cool off? Some states are in the middle of a seller’s market with bidding wars on every listing, while others might have more favorable conditions for buyers. 

Next, take a close look at state taxes. Remember, not all tax burdens are created equal. States like Texas and Florida may lure you in with no income tax, but their property taxes tend to be higher to compensate. 

On the flip side, some states have lower property taxes but make up for it with income or sales taxes. Research and understand how the tax structure in your new state will impact your overall cost of living.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking for financial assistance, check out state-specific loan programs. Many states offer incentives like down payment assistance, tax credits, or special mortgage programs that could save you thousands. 

Lastly, don’t forget about title and closing procedures. Some states require an attorney to handle real estate closings, while others rely on title companies. These differences might not seem like a big deal at first, but they can impact your closing timeline, legal fees, and overall buying experience. 

Finding a Lender Who Can Handle Out-of-State Mortgages

Not all lenders are licensed in every state, and some have better experience handling out-of-state buyers. If you’re moving far, consider:

•  Local lenders in your new state because they will know their market better.
• National mortgage companies. They’re good for buyers moving across multiple state lines.
• Your current bank or credit union may offer you loyalty perks if they operate in both states.

Emotional Readiness: Are You Ready to Start Over?

Money aside, moving out of state is a huge life change, so it is worth it to answer these questions before you start making changes:

Are you ready to leave your support system behind? Friends, family, and familiar places can be tough to part with, and rebuilding connections takes time.

Can you handle adapting to a new environment? Different cultures, climates, and even grocery store layouts (seriously, why is everything in a different aisle?) can take some getting used to.

Have you visited enough to feel confident? Virtual tours are great, but nothing beats experiencing a place firsthand. Walk the neighborhoods, meet locals, and make sure it truly feels like home.

If moving for work, will you be happy outside your job? A great career move is important, but your lifestyle and well-being matter too.

Researching Your New Location

Buying a home from out of state means putting on your detective hat. Let’s be real, the last thing you want is to show up with the moving truck only to realize your “charming, quiet neighborhood” is actually next to a 24-hour truck stop.

Good news is that thanks to technology, you don’t need to be physically there to get a feel for your new city. In fact, buying a house sight unseen is common practice. 

According to Redfin, 63% of homebuyers made offers on homes sight unseen in 2020, while LendingTree reports that in 2022, 47% of buyers did the same.

Here’s how to make sure you’re picking the right spot before you sign on the dotted line.

Get the Real Story on the Housing Market

Every real estate market has its own rhythm—some are red-hot seller’s markets with bidding wars, while others offer more room to negotiate. Research recent home prices, trends, and appreciation rates in your target area. 

Websites like ezhomesearch can give you a solid snapshot, but local real estate agents and market reports will provide accurate, up-to-date insights.

Pro Tip: Check out historical home values, not just current prices. If an area has seen steady appreciation, it’s a good sign your investment will grow.

Can You Afford Everyday Life?

Your mortgage isn’t the only thing that matters; daily expenses vary widely from state to state. Before you buy a house out of state, compare:

• Property taxes
• Homeowners insurance 
• Utility costs 
• Groceries and gas 
• Healthcare 

Tools like BestPlaces.net and Numbeo let you compare living costs between your current state and city and the one where you envision acquiring your property.

Dive Into Neighborhood Vibes

This is an important step in any homebuying journey, but when contemplating buying a house in a different state, it’s critical. Not all zip codes are created equal, and your perfect neighborhood depends on your lifestyle. Start by asking yourself:

Do you want a bustling city or a quiet suburb? if you’re a young professional, you’re probably looking to be close to the action, while families prefer the serenity, parks, and larger houses of suburbia. 

How important are commute times? If you’re working in-office, check real-world traffic reports on Google Maps during rush hour.

Are schools a priority? Even if you don’t have kids, homes in top-rated school districts tend to hold their value better. GreatSchool.org is a solid resource for checking ratings.

What’s the crime rate? Safety is a big deal. Online neighborhood safety platforms like CrimeMapping or SpotCrime can help you get an idea of crime levels. For more relatable information look up the local police department website for crime statistics.

Pro Tip: Check local Facebook groups or Reddit communities. Locals won’t sugarcoat what it’s really like to live there.

Explore Without Leaving Your Couch

There’s nothing to be physically present in a location, but if you can’t visit in person, don’t worry. Virtual tools can help you tour homes and scope out the area:

Google Street View

“Drive” around neighborhoods to see what the streets, parks, and local businesses actually look like.

YouTube Vlogs

Search for “Living in [City]” videos. Many realtors and locals post tours and insights.

City Planning & Zoning Maps

These show upcoming developments, so you don’t end up next to a new shopping center when you wanted privacy, peace and quiet.

Visit If You Can (and Make It Count)

If possible, plan a short trip to check out your new city before buying. Pack in as much as you can: visit neighborhoods at different times of the day, chat with locals, and test drive your potential work commute. Can’t make it? A great real estate agent can be your eyes and ears, giving you honest insights beyond the listing photos.

Building a Reliable Local Support Team

Buying a home from out of state means putting a lot of trust in people you’ve never met in person. You probably won’t be able to swing by an open house or chat with neighbors for the inside scoop, so you need a rock-solid team of local experts who have your back. 

Think of them as your home-buying A-team, helping you navigate the process, avoid costly mistakes, and make sure you don’t end up with a house full of surprises (and not the good kind). Here’s who you need on your side:

A Top-Notch Real Estate Agent

Your real estate agent is your boots on the ground, your insider, your guide to making sure you’re getting the best deal in the right neighborhood. But not just any agent will do; you need someone who:

• Specializes in working with out-of-state buyers.
• Knows the local market inside and out.
• Is tech-savvy and offers virtual tours, video walkthroughs, and digital document signing.
• Can connect you with other reliable professionals (inspectors, lenders, attorneys, etc.)

Pro Tip: Don’t just pick the first agent you find online. Check reviews, ask for referrals, and interview at least two or three before making a decision. You need someone who communicates well and understands your needs—not just someone eager for a commission.

A Lender Who Understands Out-of-State Mortgages

Every lender is different and that is even more evident when you’re buying a home in a different state. Also, some banks have stricter requirements for out-of-state buyers, so it’s crucial to work with a lender who:

• Is licensed in your new state
• Offers mortgage programs suited to your needs, especially if you’re self-employed or relocating for work.
• Can provide a pre-approval letter quickly. Some sellers won’t take your offer seriously without one.

Pro Tip: If your current bank operates nationwide, they may offer loyalty perks. But don’t rule out local lenders. They often have better insights into state-specific programs and real estate trends.

A Trustworthy Home Inspector 

Buying a house without seeing it in person? Then your home inspector will be your eyes. A great inspector will look beyond the surface and check for red flags—foundation issues, roof problems, plumbing nightmares—you name it.

Make sure your inspector:

• Is licensed and experienced in the local area
• Provides a detailed, photo-filled report so you can see any issues for yourself.
• Offers video calls or live-streamed inspections so you can ask questions in real time.

Pro Tip: Some states have different inspection requirements, so don’t assume the process will be the same as where you currently live. Ask your agent for referrals, and never skip this step. It could save you thousands in unexpected repairs.

A Local Real Estate Attorney 

Some states require an attorney to handle the closing process, while others rely on title companies. Even if an attorney isn’t mandatory, having one review contracts and ensure all legal documents are in order is never a bad idea—especially when you’re buying from afar.

Pro Tip: If you’re buying in New York, New Jersey, Georgia, or South Carolina, an attorney is legally required for closing.

A Reliable Title Company or Closing Agent

The title company handles all the paperwork, title insurance, and closing logistics to make sure the property is legally yours, without hidden ownership disputes. A good title company will:

• Conduct a thorough title search to ensure no liens or legal issues exist.
• Handle escrow services for a secure transaction.
• Provide remote closing options, so you don’t have to fly in to sign papers.

Bonus Team Players

Local Handyman or Contractor: In case the home needs minor repairs or renovations, having a reliable handyman lined up before you move can save you headaches.

Moving Company or Relocation Specialist: Long-distance moves are tricky, so look for a moving company experienced in state-to-state relocations.

Property Manager (If Buying as an Investment Property): If you’re buying a rental property out of state, a local property manager can handle tenant issues while you’re out of state.

Financing Your Out-of-State Home Purchase

Financially speaking, buying a home is one thing, but buying one from another state adds an extra layer of complexity, especially when it comes to financing. 

Lenders have different rules for out-of-state buyers, and mortgage options can vary depending on your new location. The key? Getting your finances in order early so you don’t hit any roadblocks along the way. 

We discussed this topic a little bit in the first section of this post, but here are some valuable tips:

Understand How Lenders View Out-of-State Buyers

Lenders like stability, and an out-of-state move signals a big life change. If you’re relocating for work, they’ll likely require employment verification to confirm you’ll have a steady income in your new state. If you’re keeping your current job and working remotely, be prepared to show proof that your employer allows remote work.

Pro Tip: Some lenders may consider you a second-home or investment buyer if you don’t plan to move immediately. That means different loan terms and potentially higher down payment and interest rates.

Compare Mortgage Options in Your New State

Not all mortgage programs are available nationwide, so it’s smart to compare loan types based on where you’re buying. Here are your main options:

• Conventional Loans: Best for buyers with good credit and a stable income. These are widely available but often require a higher down payment (5–20%) for out-of-state buyers.
• FHA Loans: Great for first-time homebuyers or those with lower credit scores. These require as little as 3.5% down, but not all sellers love FHA financing due to stricter appraisal requirements.
• VA Loans: If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member, VA loans offer zero down payment options, but you must intend to live in the home as your primary residence.
• State-Specific Loan Programs: Many states offer down payment assistance, tax credits, or low-interest loan programs for first-time homebuyers. Check with a local lender or housing authority to see if you qualify.
• Pro Tip: Even if you’ve bought a home before, some states classify you as a “first-time buyer” if you haven’t owned a home in the past three years. This could make you eligible for extra savings.

Find a Lender Licensed in Your New State

Be prepared: your favorite hometown bank might not be licensed to issue mortgages where you’re moving. To avoid delays, make sure your lender is approved to operate in your new state.

• National Lenders: Good for borrowers moving across state lines who want a streamlined process.
• Local Lenders & Credit Unions: These can offer lower rates and special loan programs, especially for first-time buyers.
• Mortgage BrokersThey shop around for the best rates and terms across multiple lenders, which can be helpful if your financial situation is unique.

Pro Tip: A local lender will have a better understanding of market conditions, property tax rates, and closing requirements—saving you from last-minute surprises.

Consider Timing and Rate Lock Options

If you’re moving across state lines, your home purchase timeline might be unpredictable. Mortgage rates fluctuate daily, so you’ll want to discuss rate lock options with your lender to protect yourself from sudden increases.

• Short-Term Rate Lock (30–60 days): Good if you’re closing soon and want to secure your rate.
• Extended Rate Lock (90+ days): Helpful if you need more time but want to hedge against rising rates.
• Float-Down Option: Some lenders offer the ability to take a lower rate if the market improves before you close.

Pro Tip: Some states have longer closing timelines due to legal or title requirements. Make sure your rate lock covers any unexpected delays.

Know What to Expect at Closing

Closing on a home out of state can feel tricky, but most lenders and title companies now offer remote closing options to simplify the process. Remote Online Notarization (RON) is available in some states, allowing for fully digital closings where you can sign documents from anywhere.

If a digital closing isn’t an option, mail-away closings allow documents to be overnighted for signing. Alternatively, if you prefer to be present in person, plan for travel expenses to attend the closing.

Pro Tip: Make sure your lender, real estate agent, and title company are all on the same page about whether you’ll be closing remotely or in person. Miscommunication can lead to frustrating delays.

Navigating the Home Search Process Remotely

House hunting is tricky enough when you’re local. Now imagine yourself doing it from another state… that’s a whole new level of challenge. You can’t be present at open houses or get a feel for the neighborhood by driving around. Instead, you have to rely on virtual tools, trusted professionals, and smart strategies to make sure you’re not just buying a house, but finding the right home.

The good news? Technology has made remote home buying easier than ever. Here’s the step-by-step on how to search, evaluate, and confidently choose your future home —all from miles away.

Step 1. Master the Virtual Home Search

Gone are the days of squinting at blurry listing photos and hoping for the best. Today, you can tour homes from anywhere with:

3D Virtual Walkthroughs

Many listings now include Matterport tours or 360° views, letting you explore every inch of a home on your own time.

Google Street View

“Drive” around the neighborhood virtually to check out the surroundings. Is it peaceful, or are you next to a strip mall with a neon “Open 24 Hours” sign?

Live Video Tours with Your Agent: A great agent will FaceTime or Zoom with you while walking through the home, pointing out details you might miss in listing photos.

Neighborhood & Market Research

Use BestPlaces.net, City-Data, and Niche.com to dig into crime rates, school rankings, and cost of living.

Pro Tip: Ask your agent to show you beyond the listing photos—like the street, backyard, and even the view from the windows.

Step 2. Know What You Need vs. What’s Nice to Have

When searching for a home remotely, clarity is key. Since you won’t be able to experience every property in person, it’s essential to define your must-haves and dealbreakers early in the process. 

Essentials might include the number of bedrooms, preferred neighborhoods, school districts, or dedicated home office space; factors that directly impact your lifestyle and daily needs.

Equally important is identifying dealbreakers that could make a home unsuitable, such as HOA restrictions, high property taxes, outdated infrastructure, or excessive noise levels. 

Beyond the essentials, create a wish list of features that would enhance your living experience, like walkability, a spacious backyard, or an updated kitchen. Knowing these priorities in advance will help streamline your search and ensure you focus on the homes that truly fit your needs.

Pro Tip: Think beyond the house. What will your commute be like? Are property taxes reasonable? Is the area growing or declining?

Step 3. Work with a Real Estate Agent Who Knows Remote Buyers

Your agent is your eyes and ears on the ground, so choosing the right one is crucial. You need someone who:

• Knows the local market inside and out.
• Communicates quickly via video calls, emails, and texts.
• Offers detailed virtual tours and honest insights about homes.
• Understands your needs and won’t waste time on bad matches.

Pro Tip: Ask potential agents how many out-of-state buyers they’ve worked with before. You need someone comfortable guiding remote clients.

Step 4. Plan an In-Person Visit 

If time and budget allow, visiting your new city before making an offer can be a game-changer. While you’re there:

• Tour multiple homes in a short time (your agent can plan efficient showings).
• Explore neighborhoods at different times of day to see how they feel.
• Visit local spots like coffee shops, grocery stores, and parks can reveal a lot about daily life.

If an in-person visit isn’t possible, don’t stress! A strong virtual strategy (plus a great agent and inspector) can still lead you to the right home.

Step 5. Be Ready to Move Fast

The best homes don’t stay on the market for long, so acting quickly is crucial—especially when buying from out of state. Having a mortgage pre-approval ready signals to sellers that you’re a serious buyer. 

Be prepared to make an offer remotely, as electronic signatures and wire transfers allow for a seamless process. Once your offer is accepted, schedule a home inspection as soon as possible to identify any potential issues before closing.

Pro Tip: Some markets allow sight-unseen offers meaning you can place an offer before visiting in person. If you go this route, make sure your contract includes an inspection contingency to protect yourself.

Making an Offer and Closing Remotely

So, you’ve found the one; a house that checks all your boxes and makes you excited about your move. Now comes the next big step: making an offer and closing the deal all from a different state. While this might seem tricky, modern technology and real estate professionals can make the process smooth if you know what to expect.

Work with Your Agent to Make a Strong Offer

In competitive markets, you won’t have time to hesitate, and being an out-of-state buyer can sometimes put you at a disadvantage. To make sure your offer stands out:

• Offer a competitive price : Your agent will guide you based on recent sales. If it’s a hot market, a full-price (or above-asking) offer might be necessary.
• Consider a larger earnest money deposit: This signals to the seller that you’re serious.
• Include contingencies that protect you:  Even if you’re making an aggressive offer, don’t skip an inspection contingency.
• Be flexible on closing dates: Some sellers want a fast close, while others may need extra time to move.

Pro Tip: If competition is fierce, ask your agent about an escalation clause, which automatically increases your offer if competing bids come in.

Remote Home Inspections: Don’t Skip This Step

Since you’re buying from a distance, a detailed home inspection is non-negotiable. You need a local home inspector who will be your eyes and ears and spot any potential issues before closing.

• Request a live video walkthrough: A great inspector will FaceTime or Zoom with you so you can see everything in real time.
• Get a detailed, photo-filled report: Insist on a report that includes high-quality images and descriptions of any problems.
• Ask about specialized inspections: Depending on the state, you may need extra checks for termites, radon, or foundation issues.

Pro Tip: If anything concerning comes up, you can negotiate repairs or back out (if your contract has an inspection contingency).

The Remote Closing Process

You don’t have to hop on a plane just to sign paperwork. Thanks to remote online notarization (RON) and e-signatures, you can close from anywhere. Here’s what to expect:

• Title & Escrow Company Handles the Process: They verify legal ownership, prepare paperwork, and handle the money transfer.
• E-Signing Documents: Many lenders allow fully digital signings, but some states still require certain documents to be notarized in person.
• Remote Online Notarization (RON): Some states allow virtual notarization via video call. If your state doesn’t, documents can be mailed overnight.
• Wiring Your Down Payment & Closing Costs: Be extra cautious! Wire fraud is real. Only send funds after verifying details directly with your title company.

Pro Tip: If your state requires an in-person notary, you can often sign with a local notary where you live and FedEx documents back.

Final Walkthrough (Even From Afar!)

Before closing, you’ll have the opportunity for a final walkthrough to ensure the home is in the agreed-upon condition. If you can’t be there in person, ask your agent to do a live video walkthrough to confirm that any negotiated repairs were completed. 

They should also verify that appliances and fixtures included in the contract remain in place, as sellers aren’t allowed to take items like a chandelier if it was part of the deal. 

Lastly, have them check for any last-minute surprises, ensuring the home hasn’t been damaged or altered since the inspection.

Pro Tip: If you can visit in person before closing, it’s worth the trip! Seeing the home before you officially own it gives you peace of mind.

Conclusion: How To Purchase a Home Out of State

Buying a house from out of state might feel overwhelming at first—there’s a lot to juggle, from researching a new area to trusting people you’ve never met to handle one of the biggest purchases of your life. But guess what? You got this!

With the right approach, a little patience, and a solid team backing you up, buying a home remotely is totally doable. You now know how to research your future location, find a great real estate agent, secure financing from afar, and navigate the buying process like a pro. Virtual tours, remote closings, and digital tools make long-distance home buying easier than ever, and you’re well-prepared to handle every step.

The key? Plan ahead, ask the right questions, and trust the process. Yes, there may be a few hiccups along the way (because, well, real estate), but staying flexible and informed will keep you on track. Before you know it, you’ll have the keys in hand and a brand-new adventure ahead of you.

So take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and get ready to start this exciting new chapter.