A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is one of the biggest transitions a military family will experience. Choosing the right home at a new duty station requires careful research and planning to ensure a smooth move.
Before making a decision, it’s crucial to ask the right questions about your new location. From housing options and commute times to schools and community resources, knowing what to expect will help you make an informed home-buying decision.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most essential questions every military family should ask before buying a home at their next duty station.
1. Housing Market & Home-Buying Considerations
What’s the housing market like near my new duty station?
Real estate markets can vary drastically from one location to another. Some duty stations are in high-demand, competitive housing markets, while others offer affordable homes with lower appreciation potential.
How to Find Out:
Research home prices on Zillow, Realtor.com, or MilitaryByOwner
Check historical trends in property values
Talk to a local military-friendly real estate agent
Should I live on base or off base?
Many service members struggle with the on-post vs. off-post decision. While on-post housing can offer convenience, off-post living may provide more space, privacy, and long-term financial benefits if you buy a home.
Ask about base housing availability & waitlists
Compare off-base home prices & BAH rates
Consider long-term investment potential if buying off base
What neighborhoods are best for military families?
If you’re buying a home, choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the house itself.
Things to look for in a military-friendly neighborhood:
Proximity to base (shorter commute)
Good school district (if you have kids)
Low crime rates
Nearby shopping, dining, and amenities
Pro Tip: Join local military spouse Facebook groups for insider knowledge on the best neighborhoods near your new duty station!
2. Schools & Family Considerations
What are the best school options near my duty station?
For military families with kids, school quality is often a top priority. Some duty stations have highly rated public schools, while others may require considering private or charter school options.
How to Find Out:
Use GreatSchools.org to check school ratings
Ask local parents in military family groups
Research DoDEA schools if considering on-base education
Are there military-friendly daycare options?
If you have young children, finding reliable childcare is a must. Some duty stations have Child Development Centers (CDCs) on base, while others require finding off-base daycare or preschool options.
Check if your new duty station has on-base childcare
Research off-base daycare waitlists before arrival
Look into Child Care Aware of America for military childcare assistance
3. Cost of Living & Financial Planning
How does the cost of living compare to my current location?
The cost of living can vary significantly from one duty station to another. Some areas, like Hawaii, California, and Washington, D.C., have a high cost of living, while others, like Texas or North Carolina, are more affordable.
Key Considerations:
Compare BAH rates at your new location (Use MilitaryPay.defense.gov)
Research average utility costs in the area
Check property tax rates & homeowners’ insurance costs
What’s the best way to use my BAH for home buying?
Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is designed to cover housing expenses, but in some areas, it may not fully cover mortgage and utility cost.
Example Calculation:
- Assume an E-6 with dependents receives $2,200/month in BAH
- Mortgage lenders recommend that housing costs should not exceed 40% of income
- $2,200 x 0.40 = $880 is a safe monthly mortgage range
Pro Tip: Work with a VA Loan specialist to determine your affordable home price range before you start house hunting.
4. Commute Times, Transportation & Base Access
What are the typical commute times to the base?
Traffic patterns can greatly impact your quality of life. Some bases have heavy congestion during peak hours, making a 10-mile commute take 45+ minutes.
How to Check Commute Times:
Use Google Maps to test commute times during rush hour
Research gate access & traffic patterns for your base
Consider housing options closer to back gates for easier access
Does the base have multiple gate access points?
Some bases, especially large ones like Fort Liberty, have multiple entrance gates. If you live on the opposite side of the base from where you work, you could spend extra time in traffic every day.
Research gate hours & access policies
Check for alternative entry points to reduce commute time
5. Local Community & Resources for Military Families
What support networks are available for military families?
Adjusting to a new duty station is easier when you have a support system in place. Many bases have Family Readiness Groups (FRGs), military spouse clubs, and community events that help families settle in.
Check if the base has an FRG or spouse club
Join local military Facebook groups
Visit the installation’s MWR office for events & activities
What local amenities and entertainment options are nearby?
Beyond housing and commute considerations, knowing what’s nearby for entertainment, dining, and outdoor activities can help you adjust to your new home.
Are there good restaurants, shopping centers, and parks nearby?
What outdoor activities are available (beaches, hiking, lakes, etc.)?
Is there a strong military community in the area?
Be Proactive and Ask the Right Questions Before Your Move
A PCS move is more than just finding a house—it’s about choosing a home that fits your family’s lifestyle and financial goals. Asking these essential questions before your move can help you avoid surprises and make a confident decision about where to live.
By researching the housing market, commute times, schools, cost of living, and local amenities, you can set yourself up for a smooth transition to your new duty station.
Need Help Finding a Home at Your Next Duty Station?
At The Barge Group, we specialize in helping military families navigate home buying and PCS moves. Our team understands military timelines, VA Loans, and the challenges of finding the perfect home at a new duty station.
Contact us today for expert real estate guidance and start planning your PCS home purchase with confidence!
This post provides a comprehensive, business-friendly guide for military families buying a home at a new duty station, ensuring they ask the right questions and make informed decisions. Let me know if you’d like any adjustments!