Moving to a new state is a major milestone. It comes with excitement, opportunity, and a long list of to-dos. If you're planning a move to Illinois—especially to luxury communities like North Barrington or Wynstone—you’ll want to approach your relocation with both strategy and local insight.
From understanding Illinois laws to registering your vehicle and getting acquainted with your new area, preparation is key. Whether you're moving for work, lifestyle, or a fresh start, taking the right steps early on will help you settle in with confidence.
Here’s a helpful guide to make your transition as smooth as possible.
1. Establish Legal Residency in Illinois
The first step in making Illinois your official home is establishing residency. This is especially important if you’re moving from a state with different tax laws, voting districts, or insurance regulations.
To establish residency in Illinois, make sure to:
-
Update your address with the United States Postal Service
-
Register to vote at your new Illinois address
-
Get a state-issued ID or driver’s license from the Illinois Secretary of State
It’s recommended to complete these steps within 30 days of your move. Doing so lays the foundation for everything else—from local taxes to school enrollment.
2. Update Your Vehicle Registration and Insurance
If you’re bringing a vehicle with you, Illinois requires that you register it within 30 days of establishing residency. This means you’ll need to:
-
Obtain Illinois auto insurance (minimum liability is required)
-
Transfer your title and registration to the state
-
Get an emissions test if your new home is in an affected county (including Lake County)
New Illinois residents must visit the Secretary of State's office in person to complete these steps. Be sure to bring your out-of-state title, proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed application.
3. Transfer Professional Licenses and Documents
If your career involves a state-issued license—whether in real estate, healthcare, education, or law—you may need to transfer or reapply under Illinois guidelines.
Research your specific profession’s licensing board and begin the process as early as possible. Some credentials transfer easily across state lines, while others may require additional coursework, exams, or verification.
Also, be sure to update important documents like your estate plan, vehicle title, and insurance policies to reflect Illinois laws and address changes.
Research your specific profession’s licensing board and begin the process as early as possible. Some credentials transfer easily across state lines, while others may require additional coursework, exams, or verification.
Also, be sure to update important documents like your estate plan, vehicle title, and insurance policies to reflect Illinois laws and address changes.
4. Explore Schools and Educational Options
If you have school-aged children, researching local districts and enrollment procedures should be a top priority. North Barrington, located in the Barrington 220 School District, offers highly regarded public schools along with access to respected private and parochial options.
Even if you're not moving with children, understanding school zones is important when purchasing a home—these boundaries often influence property values and long-term resale potential.
Even if you're not moving with children, understanding school zones is important when purchasing a home—these boundaries often influence property values and long-term resale potential.
To enroll a child in an Illinois public school, you'll typically need:
-
Proof of residency (like a lease or utility bill)
-
Your child’s birth certificate and previous academic records
-
Updated medical and immunization forms
5. Get to Know Local Tax Policies
Illinois has a different tax structure than many other states. Property taxes are among the highest in the country, while there is no tax on retirement income—making it a mixed landscape for new residents.
Make sure to:
-
Review local property tax rates, which vary significantly by county and municipality
-
Consult with a tax advisor to understand how your move will impact state and federal obligations
-
Explore available deductions or exemptions, like the homeowner’s exemption or senior freeze
Lake County, where North Barrington and Wynstone are located, posts detailed property tax assessments online. Reviewing them in advance can help you plan your budget more accurately.
6. Connect Utilities and Local Services
Before move-in day, coordinate the transfer or activation of utilities. In Illinois, this may include:
-
Electricity through ComEd
-
Natural gas from providers like Nicor or North Shore Gas
-
Water and sewer services through the village or county
-
Cable, internet, and security providers
-
Trash and recycling services
-
Lawn care and snow removal, depending on the season
7. Familiarize Yourself With Your New Community
One of the most rewarding parts of moving is discovering what makes your new area special. North Barrington offers a unique blend of privacy, natural beauty, and access to upscale amenities—especially within the gates of Wynstone, a premier golf community with 24/7 security and exclusive club features.
Explore:
-
Local parks, preserves, and golf courses
-
Restaurants, boutique shopping, and spas in nearby Barrington or Lake Zurich
-
Seasonal events like farmers markets, concerts, and holiday festivals
-
Commuting routes to Chicago or nearby employment hubs
Getting involved in local organizations, clubs, or charitable events is a great way to meet people and build community.
8. Work With a Local Real Estate Expert
Relocating from out of state brings unique challenges—from unfamiliar market conditions to coordinating a long-distance purchase or sale. That’s why working with a knowledgeable local agent is so important.
A real estate professional with experience in the North Barrington and Wynstone markets can:
-
Provide virtual showings or private previews
-
Recommend trusted local lenders, attorneys, and service providers
-
Guide you through neighborhood comparisons based on lifestyle needs
-
Negotiate on your behalf with attention to local pricing trends and timing
Especially in the luxury segment, having the right representation can make all the difference in securing the property that fits your vision and goals.
Reach Out to Connie Antoniou
Relocating to Illinois is a significant move—and having the right guidance makes the entire process more rewarding. Connie Antoniou specializes in helping clients transition to North Barrington and the surrounding area with ease and confidence. Her local expertise, attention to detail, and personalized approach ensure that every client is fully supported from first showing to final closing.
Whether you're relocating for work, investing in a second home, or seeking a lifestyle change, Connie helps you navigate every step of your move with professionalism and care.
Reach out to Connie Antoniou today to begin your journey to Illinois with a trusted real estate expert by your side.
Whether you're relocating for work, investing in a second home, or seeking a lifestyle change, Connie helps you navigate every step of your move with professionalism and care.
Reach out to Connie Antoniou today to begin your journey to Illinois with a trusted real estate expert by your side.