On average, people move once every 5 to 7 years, but that wasn't always the trend. It used to be that homeowners lived in their homes long enough to pay off their mortgage. But those who manage to fit this profile are now few and far between. Those who have lived in the same home for the past thirty years may find it baffling that people relocate so often, especially considering that moving is one of life's most stressful events. What are the motivating factors behind all these moves?
For starters, the employment scene is brightening and the housing market is doing well. According to Census Bureau data, folks who moved between 2011 and 2012 added up to 3.5 million, up from 2.8 million in 2010 and the highest we've seen since 2006 and 2007. With a…