Physician relocations move fast. Contracts are signed, credentialing begins, and suddenly your start date is only a few months away.
For residents, fellows, and attending physicians accepting a new position, a 90-day relocation window is very common. The key to a smooth transition is knowing what to do and when.
This timeline outlines the major steps physicians should take to secure housing, coordinate their move, and arrive prepared for their first day.
Days 90-75: Planning and Financial Preparation: Let's Set Your Pace
For everyone relocating
- Confirm your start date and credentialing timeline. Is there orientation before you officially start your clinical duties?
- Gather important documents such as employment contracts, offer letters, bank statements, 1099s or W-2s. Have other financial documents ready such as investment account balances and student loan information.
- Decide whether to buy or rent.
- Connect with a real estate agent who understands physician relocations. Doctors often face unique financial structures, demanding schedules, and compressed timelines. If you do not already have a trusted recommendation, Moving Medicine Partners can connect you with a vetted physician-focused agent anywhere in the country at no cost.
- Decide what is important to you: your commute restrictions, schools, crime maps, ongoing home upkeep, parking around your home, and upfront home maintenance.
- Confirm whether your medical license, DEA registration, and hospital credentialing are already in process. Some states take months for approval, and housing decisions may depend on your confirmed start timeline.
Buying
- Speak with at least two lenders who offer physician loan programs as well as conventional financing options. Compare interest rates, down payment requirements, and whether private mortgage insurance (PMI) applies. Many physician loans allow low or no down payment and exclude student loan balances from traditional debt calculations, but structures vary by lender. Ask lenders how early you can close prior to your contract date. Reach out for help vetting a lender or check our preferred lender page for recommendations.
- Review employment contract terms with your lender and agent (income structure matters).
- Determine overall budget and monthly comfort level. Consider speaking with a financial advisor. Don’t forget to factor in upkeep costs such as lawn care, snow removal, pest control and security systems.
- A typical closing on a home takes 30 days so plan accordingly.
Renting
- Determine whether you need a short-term lease (6–12 months) or a long-term rental.
- Start reviewing rental inventory early in competitive markets. Some rental markets require you to pay above the listed price for homes, condos or townhomes.
Days 75-60: Begin the Housing Search: Let's Build Momentum
Buying
- Start touring homes virtually or in person. Agents who are experienced in working with physicians should be prepared to schedule in-person home tours based on your limited availability. If you are purchasing from afar, plan with your agent to view properties virtually.
- Narrow down preferred neighborhoods.
- Ask your agent to help you understand local market conditions and offer strategies to keep you competitive.
- Prepare funds for earnest money and inspections. Some properties have add-on inspections such as radon, chimney, pool or mold.
Renting
- Begin touring rentals.
- Understand lease terms, deposits, and pet policies.
- Secure a rental before peak demand if possible.
Days 60-45: Contracts and Commitments: Let's Finalize Wants and Needs
For everyone relocating, re-confirm your start date, orientation schedule, and first paycheck timeline. Some physicians may not receive their first paycheck for several weeks after starting, so ensure you have sufficient liquidity for closing costs, deposits, and moving expenses. Does your contract include a relocation stipends or bonus? Ask when you can anticipate receiving those funds.
Buying
- Secure your pre-approval letter. You have interviewed lenders, watched interest rates and decided on the right loan option.
- Submit offers on preferred homes. Plan your desired closing date based on your start date and credentialing timeline. Discuss your escalation strategy if you're in a competitive market.
- Once under contract, plan to schedule inspections and lock in your interest rate. Complete inspections quickly to preserve your walk-away period.
Renting
- Sign lease agreement.
- Schedule utilities and renter’s insurance.
- Secure parking permits for moving trucks or POD deliveries.
Days 45-30: Logistics and Inspections: Let's Review the Details
For everyone relocating: If you are relocating across the country, confirm whether your moving company offers temporary storage in case your belongings arrive before or after your closing date. Does your moving company allow you to pick a specific move-in date, or do they only offer an arrival window? Decide how you want to move your belongings into your new home and schedule movers if needed. Will you use a full-service moving company, a POD, a U-Haul?
Buying
- Complete inspections and negotiate repairs if needed. Your agent should help you navigate what to ask the seller to fix versus accepting a credit and completing the work after closing. Ask for proof of repairs in writing.
- Finalize mortgage underwriting documents. Stay in communication with your lender in case any last-minute documents are needed.
Renting
- Confirm the lease start date.
- Schedule your move-in inspection and reserve your elevator if needed.
Days 30-14: Final Preparations: Let's Get to the Finish Line
For everyone relocating: Arrange your utilities. This can include electric, gas, water, trash and internet. Update your mailing address and cancel any monthly mail subscriptions.
Buying
- Schedule your closing. Be clear on whether you will attend in person or virtually. Some states use a POA while others allow a mobile notary if you cannot be there.
- Arrange homeowner’s insurance.
Renting
- Coordinate the move-in inspection.
- Reserve your assigned parking space if applicable.
Days 14–0: Move and Close
The final stretch requires precision and zooming in on the details. You are waiting to hear the magic words: "clear to close."
Buying
- Conduct a final walkthrough of the property. If you are purchasing from afar, confirm that your agent can attend. Have them inspect structures such as detached storage sheds or garages. Your inspector might also offer to review any completed work as part of your contract.
- Close on your home.
- Receive the keys and begin move-in. Don't forget to change the locks!
Renting
- Complete your move-in inspection.
- Document any existing damage.
- Begin settling into the new home and community.
Relocating for a new medical position is an exciting milestone, but the process can feel overwhelming when timelines are compressed. Working with professionals who understand physician relocations can make the transition far smoother, allowing you to focus on preparing for your new role and your new community.
Why Physician Relocations Are Different
Physicians relocate under unique circumstances. Contract timelines are compressed, work schedules limit availability for home tours, and financing structures often differ from traditional buyers due to student loan balances and physician loan programs.
Working with professionals who understand these dynamics can significantly simplify the process. Reach out with questions, we have been through this before and are happy to help! From Residency to Retirement, we are here for you!
