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Prepare your repatriation: How to find an accommodation?

Finding a new home is usually at the top of the list. This may be as simple as preparing your house to be re-occupied, or searching for a new apartment or house. Many people decide to stay with family or friends upon their return which is a great short-term solution. It is an excellent way to re-connect, soften the "reverse culture shock", and save money on the initial move. It is, however, short-term. Welcomes can wear out quickly for long stays, and might be entirely impossible if you have a large family you are moving back with.

"Transitional" housing can be an excellent solution for this period. Rather then living in a hotel which can be costly, a transitional home may offer an entire apartment at the fraction of the overall price of staying in a hotel. This way your family has room to spread out, a kitchen, and time to look for the perfect place.

Another option is to hire a professional (estate agent/ realtor) to find an apartment or property to buy. They can make the process move along much faster. By doing some research on your own and finding what exactly you like, you can arm a professional to find the place for you and your family. With this method it is best to fly back before your final move so you can see the place in person before signing a contract. It is inadvisable to attempt the process on your own if you don't have much time to spare.