DIY, MSL or a corporate firm?

Three ways to plan a move. Here is what each one costs and what you get.

Do it yourself: free, plus your time

You do every search yourself. It can work if you have weeks to spare and already know the place. Most mistakes show up after you sign a lease or pay a fee.

MSL Global Co: from $750, flat fee

We research visas, housing, schools and costs for the places you are comparing. You get a written report and a call to go through it. You make every decision.

Usually paid by an employer. One leading firm reports average US packages of $21,792 for renters and $63,685 for homeowners. Hard to justify if you are paying yourself.

Corporate firm: $20,000 and up