Things to Prepare Before Moving to Detroit - Detroit - 1

If you are planning to move to Detroit (specifically to suburbs like Troy, Novi, and West Bloomfield), there are a few things you should prepare in advance.

The first thing to consider is related to your vehicle. You need to convert your Michigan driver's license within 30 days after moving, and the same goes for vehicle registration. However, Michigan auto insurance is among the most expensive in the U.S. Due to the No-Fault system, it often costs over $3,000 a year, so be sure to get detailed quotes. The price differences between insurance companies can be significant. Utilities are often bundled with DTE Energy for gas and electricity, and older homes may have poor insulation, leading to high gas bills in winter, so it's advisable to check the insulation condition when choosing a home.

In terms of Korean community infrastructure, H Mart Troy is a key resource. You can find almost all Korean ingredients there, and they regularly restock. There is also Korea Mart in Novi. Many connections within the Korean community are made through churches, with several Korean United Methodist Churches and Korean Presbyterian Churches located in Troy and Novi, which can be very helpful for information sharing and networking during your initial settlement. The Korean American Association of Michigan (KAAM) is also a good source for local event information.

The school districts of Troy City School District, Novi Community Schools, and Bloomfield Hills Schools are rated among the best in Michigan. It's important to check your children's school district before finding a home. Additionally, DTW (Detroit Metro Airport) is a Delta hub, and while there are no direct flights to Korea, you can connect to Incheon through code-sharing. Checking flight times and layover locations will help you plan your visits to Korea.