Relocating to the Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) is exciting, but the logistics can be overwhelming. You aren’t just moving boxes; you’re moving your life. You need to know which DMV has the shortest line, how to register for Wake County schools before you have a permanent address, and where to find the best tacos.
Carolina Furnished Rentals (CFR) has helped hundreds of families navigate this transition. We created this guide to answer the questions that keep you up at night.
Don’t commit until you know the neighborhood.
The biggest mistake relocators make is signing a 12-month apartment lease or buying a home sight unseen.
Yes.
Unlike a hotel where you are just a room number, our single-family homes have private mailboxes.
You can forward your mail, receive Amazon packages, and start establishing your presence in NC immediately.
Use your CFR Lease Agreement.
In North Carolina, school assignments are strictly based on your address.
The Hack: A signed lease agreement (which we provide) is generally accepted as proof of residency by Wake County Public Schools and Durham Public Schools.
This allows you to enroll your children in the local district while you are still looking for your permanent home, ensuring they don’t miss a day of class.
It depends on your child.
01
If you rent with CFR, you skip this step.
02
Do this immediately.
North Carolina requires you to get an NC Driver’s License within 60 days of establishing residency.
03
You are in the City of Medicine.
Checklist
Which Vibe Fits You?
| If You Want… | Look At… | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Walkability & Nightlife | Downtown Raleigh | Rooftop bars, food halls, tech jobs. |
| Top Schools & Safety | Cary or Apex | Manicured lawns, community pools, #1 safety ratings. |
| Culture & Food | Durham | Award-winning dining, gritty/cool aesthetic, Duke University. |
| More House for Money | Holly Springs | Newer construction, larger lots, biotech jobs. |
Who can help me buy a permanent home?
Amanda (CFR Co-Founder).
As a licensed NC Broker with AG Williams Realty, Amanda specializes in helping CFR guests transition from “Temporary” to “Permanent.”
The Advantage: She knows what you liked about your rental property (and what you didn’t). She can seamless transition you from your Flex-Week lease into your new home closing, often coordinating dates so you never have to move twice.
Your Next Home Awaits
Stop searching multiple sites. Secure your flexible, furnished home with the local experts.
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