Mastering multiple markets with Suburban Jungle
During our first call with new Suburban Jungle clients, we like to discuss what we call “anchors” – specific considerations “anchoring” you to a certain area or general location. Anchors can be anything that’s important to you and your family, from ensuring a quick, comfortable commute to work to ensuring kids have access to specific schools, activities, or teams.
“Anchors are so important, ” says Suburban Jungle Philadelphia Strategist Jodi Bloom. “And one of the biggest we hear is wanting to be close to family – one side or, often, both sides of the family.” Another, she says, is professional considerations. “Maybe one person needs to be in Philadelphia twice a month, but the other has to be in Manhattan a few times a week. Or maybe one person is fully remote and can live anywhere, but the other person splits time between New York and D.C.”
Enter the “parallel search,” where Suburban Jungle’s Strategists help clients explore different markets simultaneously to find the perfect fit.
“I’ve had clients exploring the Philadelphia suburbs while considering Westchester, New Jersey — even California and South Florida! They want to understand the differences and see which area aligns better with their needs,” says Jodi. “And because we’re national, we can help make that happen.”
Why People Are Exploring Multiple Regions
While the shift to remote work has enabled many to expand their suburban search radius, it’s just one of many factors driving this trend. As life evolves, so do priorities, and Suburban Jungle is here to help clients navigate these changes. Some other reasons we’re seeing more and more clients launch a parallel search?
New Life Stages: Many clients are entering new phases of life, like becoming empty nesters or moving closer to grown children scattered across different cities. “We help clients find communities that balance everything they need,” says Jodi. Whether that’s proximity to family, access to amenities, or a desire for year-round warm weather, the flexibility to explore multiple markets ensures that clients find a home that supports their next chapter.
Lifestyle, Affordability, and Taxes: Every region offers a different mix of lifestyle benefits, cost of living, and tax implications.
“By exploring multiple markets, clients can really weigh what matters most to them,” Jodi notes. Whether it’s comparing property taxes in the NYC suburbs with those in the Philadelphia area, or considering the lifestyle shift that comes with moving to South Florida, Suburban Jungle helps clients break down the details.
Balancing Family and Work: For families with loved ones in different cities or those trying to balance multiple offices, finding a central location is key.
“We often work with couples who want to be equidistant from family members in different markets,” Jodi explains. “For example, Philly’s suburbs might be the perfect middle ground for someone with family in New York and D.C. Or maybe they’re looking in New York, D.C., and Philadelphia to figure out what makes the most sense for their family.”
Career Changes: Career transitions often bring about the need to explore new regions. Clients who are considering new job opportunities in different cities frequently engage in parallel searches to understand what life would be like in each potential location.
“As they progress in the interview process, they work with us to explore the communities in those markets,” Jodi says. “This way, they’re ready to make an informed decision if the job offer comes through.”
Why Parallel Searches Make Sense
At the heart of a parallel search is the goal of empowering families with the information they need to make the best decision. Whether it’s comparing the suburbs of New York and Philadelphia or considering a move to a completely different region, Suburban Jungle’s Strategists are there to guide every step of the way.
“When clients are comparing regions, it’s important to have someone who understands the nuances of each area,” Jodi explains. “For example, I provide insights into the Philadelphia suburbs that they can’t just Google, while one of our NYC Strategists does the same for the New York suburbs. Working together, we help them make sense of their options.”
Making the Right Decision
The beauty of a parallel search is that it allows families to explore multiple regions without feeling overwhelmed. By working with Suburban Jungle, clients can compare different communities side-by-side and gain a well-rounded perspective that helps them find the place that truly feels like home.
“Parallel searches are all about giving families the tools and insights they need to feel confident in their decision,” Jodi says. “When you can explore different regions simultaneously, you’re better equipped to find the community that aligns with your lifestyle, work needs, and family priorities.”
Considering multiple markets? We can help! Schedule your free Suburbs Strategy session now.
