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Navigating Your PCS Move: A Real Estate Guide for Military Families

Writer's picture: Joe FrankJoe Frank

As a real estate agent with an MRP Certification (Military Relocation Professional) I’m able to focus on assisting military families, while also understanding the unique, and numerous challenges you can face during a Permanent Change of Station (PCS).


Relocating is more than just a move; it's a transition that involves your entire family, career, and lifestyle. My goal is to provide you with comprehensive support and guidance, making your move smoother and less stressful.



Following are some of the biggest concerns when a military family receives a PCS. Please understand that whether you're buying, selling, or simply seeking advice, I'm here to support you each step of the way.  As your real estate ally, I can help you through the following common questions and concerns.


If you have any further questions or concerns that the following online sources don’t address, please feel free to contact me any time.




 

1. Understanding Your Military PCS Move Options 

When you receive your PCS orders, you have two primary options: (1) A government-arranged move or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly known as a DITY move. Government-arranged moves are coordinated for you, whereas (2) a PPM offers more control and potential to earn money if the move costs less than the government's allowance.


2. Military Moving Expenses and Allowances 

The military provides various allowances to cover your moving expenses. These include dislocation allowance, temporary lodging expenses, and mileage or travel allowances.

3. Handling Vehicle Transportation 

If your PCS involves vehicle transportation, there are specific policies and allowances. There are many great resources that walk you through the process of shipping your vehicle, or alternative transportation options for your new location. Here are a few resources to get you going:


5. Moving Timeline and Planning 

Your PCS timeline is crucial for a smooth transition. Following you will find moving checklists to help ensure you meet all critical deadlines, from housing arrangements to transportation bookings.

4. Dealing with Moving Delays and Damages 

Unfortunately, moving can sometimes involve delays, loss, and/or damages. The following resources can hell guide you on filing claims and seeking reimbursement, ensuring that you are compensated for any mishaps during your relocation.


6. Impact on Spouse Employment 

PCS moves can significantly impact your spouse's career. There are many resources and contacts available that can assist in job hunting and understanding employment opportunities in your new location.


7. Educational & Emotional Resources for Children 

Finding the right school during a transition process is crucial for families. I'm here to assist by providing detailed information about the top schools in your new area, including those that specialize in certain needs and curriculums. Relocating can be challenging for children, but thankfully, numerous resources are available to support them. These can aid in discussing and managing the move, ensuring the transition is as smooth as possible. Let's explore some excellent resources to get started:


8. Housing Options: On-Base or Off-Base? 

Deciding between on-base and off-base housing is a major decision. I’m always available to provide insights, as well as local housing market data and trends, cost of living, and housing availability to help you find a home that suits your family's wants, needs, and budget. Here are a few great resources to get you started:


9. Buy or Rent?

If you've decided living off-base is for your situation, the next big decision is to determine whether renting or buying a home is best for you and your family - now, and looking into the future. There are pros and cons to each, and it ultimately distills down to your unique situation, along with wants and needs. I can arm you with helpful insight, along with housing market data for both the rental market and re-sale (and new home) markets to help you make an informed decision. Here are some helpful online resources to get you started in making the decision:

10. Local Resources and Community Support 

Settling into a new community is easier with the right support. I’d love to connect you with local military support groups, community centers, and essential services to help you integrate smoothly into your new surroundings. Here a are a couple great resources to get you started.



Conclusion

Your PCS move is a significant event – I’m here to provide any guidance you many need each step of the way. From understanding your moving options to settling into your new home and community, my focus is to make your transition as seamless as possible.


In addition to the online resources referenced above, you can check out my curated resource page on the the Military Relocation process at JoeFrankRealtor.com/MilitaryRelocation


Please feel free to reach out with any other questions or for personalized guidance relative to your unique situation.


Thanks for reading this guide!

-Joe

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