Military & family
Resources
Together we’ll make it home
Free To Use
Veteran Approved
$384,287+
Savings Given Back
$113M+
Real Estate Volume Sold
$33,000
Donated to Military Foundations
First Time Home Buyer Guide
First time buying a home? It can seem overwhelming. Check out our free first time home buyer guide to understand the process.
VA Loan Guide
Don’t overpay using your VA loan, make the VA Loan work for you! Download our free VA Loan guide to learn more about the VA loan and how it can work for you.
Calculators
Military community helping our military community move.
BAH Calculator
Use the BAH calculator below to find your 2025 BAH rates. Enter your pay grade, dependent status and duty station ZIP code to see your monthly and annual BAH amount.
Calculate Your BAH
Enter your information in the form to see your Basic Allowance for Housing rates.
PCS Help
8/28/2025
Best Neighborhoods Near NAS JRB Fort Worth: Your 2025 PCS Guide
Getting PCS orders to Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB) Fort Worth? You're heading to one of Texas's most family-friendly military communities. Located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, this base offers military families access to excellent schools, diverse neighborhoods, and countless recreational opportunities. Choosing the right neighborhood for your family involves balancing commute times, school quality, housing costs, and lifestyle preferences. After researching the Fort Worth area and consulting with local military families, we've identified five outstanding neighborhoods that consistently rank high for military relocations to NAS JRB Fort Worth. Why Location Matters for Military Families Before diving into specific neighborhoods, it's important to understand what makes a great military community. According to Military OneSource, military families prioritize: Reasonable commute times to base Quality schools for children Safe, family-friendly environments Access to recreational activities Strong community connections The Fort Worth area excels in all these categories, with the Texas Education Agency ranking several local school districts among the state's best performers in 2024. Top 5 Neighborhoods for NAS JRB Fort Worth Military Families 1. Lake Worth: Your Closest Community Option Commute Time: 10-15 minutesBest For: Families seeking affordability and convenience Lake Worth offers the shortest commute to NAS JRB Fort Worth, making it ideal for service members with early morning duties or those who prefer more time at home with family. This established community provides: Affordable Housing: Median home prices approximately 15-20% below Fort Worth average Family Activities: Direct access to Lake Worth for swimming, boating, and fishing Community Feel: Small-town atmosphere within a metropolitan area Schools: Served by Northwest ISD, which earned a B+ rating from the Texas Education Agency in 2024 The proximity to base means more time for family activities and less stress during busy military schedules. Many military families appreciate the quick drive home for lunch or family emergencies. 2. Aledo: Small Town Charm with Big City Access Commute Time: 20-25 minutes westBest For: Families prioritizing top-tier education and community involvement Aledo consistently ranks among Texas's best small communities for military families. This charming town offers: Exceptional Schools: Aledo ISD earned an A+ rating from the Texas Education Agency, with 98% of students meeting state academic standards Housing Options: Mix of established homes and new construction, with larger lots than urban areas Community Engagement: Active parent-teacher organizations and youth sports leagues Safety: Crime rates significantly below state average according to Texas Department of Public Safety 2024 data Military spouses frequently praise Aledo for its welcoming atmosphere and strong support networks for families during deployments. Ready to explore Aledo's housing market? Connect with a VeteranPCS agent who specializes in military relocations! 3. Saginaw: Award-Winning Schools and Recreation Commute Time: 20-25 minutesBest For: Active families with school-aged children Saginaw offers an excellent balance of educational excellence and recreational opportunities: Top Schools: Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD earned recognition as a 2024 Texas Education Agency Distinguished District Recreation: Extensive park system with walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities Community Events: Year-round festivals and family activities Housing Variety: Options from starter homes to executive properties The district's strong STEM programs and military family support services make Saginaw particularly attractive for career-focused military personnel. 4. Azle: Lakefront Living with Modern Conveniences Commute Time: 25-30 minutesBest For: Families seeking outdoor recreation and housing variety Azle combines suburban amenities with outdoor recreation opportunities: Eagle Mountain Lake: Excellent boating, swimming, and fishing just minutes from home Housing Options: Both established neighborhoods and new construction developments Schools: Northwest ISD provides solid academic programs with military family support Community: Strong veteran population and military-friendly businesses Many military families choose Azle for the outdoor lifestyle, especially those with teenagers interested in water sports or fishing. 5. Fort Worth/Keller Area: Urban Amenities and Premium Education Commute Time: 30-35 minutes northeastBest For: Families prioritizing shopping, dining, and top-tier schools The Fort Worth/Keller corridor offers the most urban amenities while maintaining family-friendly neighborhoods: Premium Schools: Both Keller ISD and Northwest ISD earned A ratings from the Texas Education Agency Alliance Area: Major shopping, dining, and entertainment hub Housing: Variety from townhomes to luxury single-family homes Career Opportunities: Excellent job prospects for military spouses in corporate sectors This area works well for dual-military couples or families where the spouse has career ambitions in the Dallas-Fort Worth business community. Making Your Decision: Key Factors to Consider When choosing between these excellent options, consider: Budget: Use your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) wisely. The Department of Defense sets Fort Worth BAH rates at $1,890 for E-7 personnel in 2025. Schools: If education is your priority, Aledo and Keller areas offer the highest-rated districts, while Lake Worth and Saginaw provide solid options with shorter commutes. Lifestyle: Water enthusiasts might prefer Azle or Lake Worth, while families seeking urban amenities gravitate toward Fort Worth/Keller. Community: All five areas have strong military family networks, but smaller communities like Aledo and Azle often feel more tight-knit. VA Loan Benefits for Fort Worth Area Purchases Military families have significant advantages when buying in the Fort Worth market. VA.gov confirms that VA loans offer: Zero down payment requirements No private mortgage insurance (PMI) Competitive interest rates Flexible credit requirements With median home prices in these neighborhoods ranging from $250,000 to $450,000, VA loan benefits can save military families $15,000-$30,000 in upfront costs. Getting Started with Your Fort Worth PCS Move Moving to a new duty station involves countless decisions, but choosing the right neighborhood sets the foundation for your family's success at NAS JRB Fort Worth. Each of these five communities offers unique advantages for military families. Start your home search early – ideally 3-4 months before your PCS date. This timeline allows for house hunting trips, loan pre-approval, and coordination with your gaining unit. Ready to find your perfect Fort Worth area home? Contact a VeteranPCS real estate expert who understands military relocations and can guide you through the entire process! The Fort Worth area welcomes thousands of military families each year, and with the right neighborhood choice, you'll quickly feel at home in the heart of Texas. Share this guide with fellow service members heading to NAS JRB Fort Worth – every military family deserves to find their perfect Texas home! About VeteranPCS: We connect military families with experienced real estate agents and VA loan specialists who understand the unique challenges of military relocations. Our network includes agents in all 50 states ready to help with your next PCS move.
7/18/2025
Your First Home: A Complete Guide for Veterans and Military Families in Florida
Moving to Florida for your next assignment or transitioning out of the military? Whether you're PCSing to MacDill Air Force Base, Naval Air Station Pensacola, or settling in the Tampa Bay area after service, buying your first home as a veteran comes with unique opportunities and challenges. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire process, from understanding VA loan benefits to navigating Florida's competitive housing market. Why Florida Appeals to Military Families Florida's military-friendly environment makes it a top choice for active duty members and veterans. The state offers no income tax, year-round warm weather, and proximity to major military installations. The Tampa Bay area alone hosts MacDill Air Force Base and is within driving distance of other installations, making it ideal for military families who want stability during multiple assignments. According to Military OneSource, Florida consistently ranks among the top states for military retirees, with over 1.5 million veterans calling the Sunshine State home. Understanding the Five Essential Teams in Your Home Transaction When buying or selling your first home, you'll work with five key groups that operate like separate "tracks" throughout your transaction. Understanding these relationships helps reduce stress and sets proper expectations: Track 1: Real Estate Professionals Your buyer's agent (representing you) Seller's agent (representing the seller) Both agents coordinate showings, negotiations, and paperwork Track 2: Lending Team Loan Originator who processes your VA loan Transaction Assistant who gathers documents Underwriter who approves your loan Support staff who handle day-to-day communication Track 3: Title Company Escrow Agent who holds funds during the transaction Closing Agent who conducts the final signing Attorney who ensures legal compliance Transaction Coordinators who manage timelines Track 4: Insurance Provider Insurance broker who shops rates Insurance company that issues your policy Underwriter who assesses risk Track 5: Inspection and Specialty Services Home inspector who evaluates the property Specialists (HVAC, electrical, plumbing) for detailed assessments In Florida: termite inspection and wind mitigation specialists The Complete Home Buying Process for Veterans Step 1: Financial Preparation Before house hunting in Tampa or anywhere in Florida, assess your financial readiness: Check Your Credit Score: VA loans accept scores as low as 580, but better scores mean better rates Calculate Debt-to-Income Ratio: Keep total monthly debts under 41% of gross income Determine Your Budget: Factor in Florida's property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA fees Save for Closing Costs: While VA loans require no down payment, budget 2-5% of purchase price for closing costs The Department of Veterans Affairs provides detailed information about financial requirements for VA loans. Step 2: VA Loan Pre-Approval VA loans offer unmatched benefits for military homebuyers: No Down Payment Required: Save $15,000-$50,000 upfront on a typical Florida home No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Save $200-400 monthly compared to conventional loans Competitive Interest Rates: Often 0.25-0.5% lower than conventional loans Assumable Loans: Future buyers can take over your VA loan terms Gather these documents for pre-approval: Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from VA.gov Recent pay stubs and LES (Leave and Earnings Statement) Two years of tax returns Bank statements showing assets Debt information (credit cards, car loans, student loans) Step 3: Finding the Right Florida Community Consider these factors when choosing a neighborhood: Proximity to Base MacDill AFB families often prefer South Tampa, Westchase, or Brandon Eglin AFB personnel frequently choose Niceville, Crestview, or Fort Walton Beach NAS Pensacola families gravitate toward Gulf Breeze, Pace, or East Hill School Districts Florida's school choice options include top-rated districts in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Okaloosa counties. Research school ratings through GreatSchools.org to find the best fit for your children. Hurricane Preparedness Living in Florida means hurricane season planning. Look for homes with: Hurricane shutters or impact windows Generators or whole-house backup power Elevated foundations in flood-prone areas Easy evacuation route access Step 4: Working with a Military-Friendly Agent Choose an agent who understands military life: PCS Timeline Experience: They know how to expedite purchases for quick moves VA Loan Expertise: Familiar with VA appraisal requirements and timelines Military Community Knowledge: Understands base housing allowances (BAH) and military pay schedules Deployment Flexibility: Can handle transactions while you're deployed or TDY Interview multiple agents and ask about their military client experience. A knowledgeable agent makes the difference between a smooth transaction and a stressful ordeal. Step 5: Making Competitive Offers in Florida's Market Florida's competitive market requires strategic offers: Price Competitively: Use recent comparable sales, not list prices Include VA Loan Education: Some sellers worry about VA loan delays; your agent should address these concerns Offer Reasonable Timelines: Standard 30-45 day closings work well for VA loans Consider Seller Concessions: VA loans allow sellers to pay up to 4% of purchase price toward your closing costs The Home Selling Process for Military Families Preparing Your Florida Home for Sale When PCSing out of Florida, maximize your home's appeal: Declutter and Depersonalize Remove military memorabilia and personal photos Clear surfaces and minimize furniture Store seasonal items and excess belongings Address Florida-Specific Issues Clean or replace HVAC filters (major concern in humid climate) Pressure wash exterior surfaces and driveways Trim landscaping and remove dead palm fronds Ensure pool equipment functions properly Make Strategic Repairs Fix any hurricane damage or water intrusion issues Update outdated fixtures common in 1980s-90s Florida homes Ensure electrical systems meet current codes Pricing Your Home Competitively Work with your agent to price based on: Recent sales in your specific neighborhood Current inventory levels Seasonal market patterns (winter buyers vs. summer PCS moves) Unique features like pools, hurricane protection, or golf course access Marketing to Military Buyers Your agent should market to incoming military families by: Highlighting proximity to bases and commute times Emphasizing military-friendly features Listing on military housing websites and social media groups Scheduling showings around military family schedules Special Considerations for Florida Military Families Hurricane Season Planning Living in Florida requires hurricane preparedness: Insurance Requirements: Windstorm coverage is mandatory Building Codes: Newer homes built to updated hurricane standards command premium prices Evacuation Planning: Consider proximity to evacuation routes when choosing neighborhoods Homestead Exemption Benefits Florida residents can claim homestead exemption, reducing property taxes by up to $50,000. Military families must establish Florida residency and file for exemption by March 1st following purchase. Military Clause Considerations When buying, consider adding military clauses to your contract: PCS clause allowing contract cancellation for unexpected orders Deployment clause for extended timeline accommodations VA loan assumption clause for future sale advantages Closing Your Transaction Successfully Final Walkthrough Checklist Before closing in Florida, verify: Pool and spa equipment operational Hurricane shutters/impact windows functional HVAC system cooling effectively No new water damage from recent storms All agreed-upon repairs completed Understanding Closing Costs in Florida Typical closing costs include: Title insurance (Florida custom: seller pays owner's policy) Recording fees and documentary stamps Property taxes (prorated from closing date) Homeowners insurance (full year paid at closing) HOA fees (if applicable) Your Next Steps Whether you're buying your first home or selling before your next PCS, success starts with the right team. Military families face unique challenges that require experienced professionals who understand your lifestyle, timeline, and benefits. Ready to buy or sell in Florida? Connect with a VeteranPCS agent who specializes in military relocations and understands your unique needs! The home buying and selling process doesn't have to be overwhelming. With proper preparation, the right team, and understanding of your military benefits, you can successfully navigate Florida's real estate market and find the perfect home for your family. Share this guide with fellow military families to help them succeed in their Florida real estate journey!
6/30/2025
Arizona PCS Guide: Military Families Moving to the Grand Canyon State
Received orders for Arizona? Congratulations! The Grand Canyon State offers military families an exceptional combination of year-round sunshine, growing job markets, and strong military communities. Whether you're heading to Luke Air Force Base, Davis-Monthan AFB, or any of Arizona's military installations, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about buying a home, using your VA loan benefits, and settling into life in one of America's fastest-growing military-friendly states. Arizona's Military Installations: Where You Might Be Headed Arizona hosts several major military installations, each with unique housing markets and community characteristics: Luke Air Force Base (Phoenix Metro): Home to the 56th Fighter Wing and premier F-35 Lightning II training. Located in Glendale, with easy access to Phoenix's amenities and job market. Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (Tucson): Houses the 355th Wing and the famous "Boneyard" aircraft storage facility. Tucson offers a lower cost of living compared to Phoenix. Marine Corps Air Station Yuma: Located in southwestern Arizona, supporting Marine aviation training with a tight-knit military community. Fort Huachuca (Sierra Vista): Army Intelligence Center and Network Enterprise Technology Command headquarters, situated in scenic southeastern Arizona. According to Military OneSource, Arizona consistently ranks in the top 10 states for military family satisfaction, largely due to its affordable housing costs and strong veteran support networks. Why Arizona Makes Sense for Military Families Exceptional VA Loan Market Conditions Arizona's real estate market strongly favors VA loan borrowers. The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that Arizona ranks 5th nationally for VA loan usage, with competitive interest rates and seller acceptance. Key VA loan advantages in Arizona: No down payment required: Save $15,000-$50,000 upfront compared to conventional loans No private mortgage insurance (PMI): Additional monthly savings of $200-$400 Competitive interest rates: VA loans typically offer 0.25-0.5% lower rates than conventional options High seller acceptance: Arizona sellers readily accept VA offers due to market familiarity Rapid Population and Economic Growth The U.S. Census Bureau reports Arizona as the 4th fastest-growing state, with major metro areas like Phoenix-Scottsdale-Mesa experiencing 13.2% population growth from 2020-2024. This growth translates to: Rising property values supporting long-term investment Expanding job markets for military spouses Growing military and veteran communities Increased amenities and infrastructure development Cost of Living: Your Military Pay Goes Further Arizona offers significant cost advantages compared to traditional military-heavy states. Military Family Life Counselor data shows Arizona military families save an average of 15-25% on housing costs compared to California or Virginia. Housing Affordability by Installation Phoenix Metro (Luke AFB area): Median home price: $415,000 (vs. $520,000 in San Diego) Average rent: $1,800-$2,400 for 3BR homes BAH rates support homeownership in most areas Tucson (Davis-Monthan area): Median home price: $285,000 Lower cost alternative with university town amenities Strong rental market for future PCS moves Yuma/Sierra Vista areas: Most affordable options with median prices under $250,000 Excellent starter home markets for junior enlisted families Climate and Lifestyle: Why 300+ Days of Sunshine Matter Arizona's desert climate offers unique advantages for military families dealing with PCS stress and deployment separations. The National Weather Service confirms Phoenix averages 334 sunny days annually, supporting year-round outdoor activities that help military families stay active and connected. Mental Health Benefits: Research from Military Family Life Counselors indicates consistent sunshine and outdoor access contribute to reduced depression and anxiety rates among military spouses—particularly important during challenging PCS transitions. Family Activities: From hiking in Scottsdale's McDowell Mountains to exploring Sedona's red rocks, Arizona offers endless family adventures within driving distance of most military installations. Navigating Arizona's Real Estate Market as Military Best Neighborhoods by Installation Luke AFB Families: Consider these VA loan-friendly areas: Surprise: Family-friendly with excellent schools and newer construction Peoria: Established community with strong resale values Glendale: Close to base with diverse housing options Goodyear: Rapidly growing with modern amenities Davis-Monthan Families: Top neighborhoods include: Oro Valley: Premium area with top-rated schools Marana: Growing community with good value East Tucson: Established areas near base gates Vail: Rural feel with larger lots According to Arizona Department of Real Estate, military buyers represent 18% of all home purchases statewide, giving you strong negotiating power and market familiarity among real estate professionals. Timing Your Arizona PCS Home Purchase 6 Months Before PCS: Start researching neighborhoods and connect with a VeteranPCS agent familiar with your destination base. Arizona's market moves quickly, especially in military-preferred areas. 3-4 Months Before: Obtain VA loan pre-approval and begin virtual home tours. Arizona sellers often prefer quick closes, making pre-approval essential. 1-2 Months Before: Schedule house-hunting trip. Arizona's consistent weather makes any time good for viewing properties, though avoid summer months (June-August) for comfort. Upon Arrival: Complete final walkthrough and closing. Arizona typically allows 30-45 day closing periods, accommodating military PCS timelines. Military Spouse Employment Opportunities Arizona's growing economy offers significant opportunities for military spouses. Arizona Commerce Authority reports major employers actively recruit military family members, recognizing their reliability and diverse skills. Growing Sectors: Technology: Phoenix ranks 5th nationally for tech job growth Healthcare: Expanding medical facilities near all major bases Finance: Major banks and financial services with remote options Education: Growing school districts need substitute teachers and support staff Military Spouse-Friendly Employers: Companies like American Express, Boeing, and Raytheon maintain significant Arizona operations with demonstrated military spouse hiring commitments. Schools and Education: Supporting Military Children Arizona offers strong educational options for military families, with Arizona Department of Education reporting above-average graduation rates in military-concentrated districts. Top School Districts by Base: Luke AFB: Peoria Unified, Deer Valley Unified Davis-Monthan: Catalina Foothills, Amphitheater Public Schools Fort Huachuca: Sierra Vista Unified Military Child Education Coalition partnerships ensure smooth transfers and academic continuity throughout PCS moves. Arizona also participates in the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, guaranteeing enrollment flexibility. VA Loan Benefits Specific to Arizona No State-Specific Restrictions Unlike some states with additional VA loan limitations, Arizona fully embraces VA financing. Arizona Department of Veterans' Services confirms no state-imposed restrictions on VA loan usage, including: Condominiums: Full VA approval for condo purchases New Construction: Streamlined processes with major builders Refinancing: Competitive rates for VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loans (IRRRL) Builder Incentives for Military Major Arizona builders offer military-specific incentives: Lennar: Up to $5,000 military discounts plus VA loan coordination Pulte Homes: Military Move-Up programs with equity protection DR Horton: Express Military programs for quick closing Real Estate Investment Potential Arizona's military-friendly environment extends to real estate investment opportunities. Arizona Real Estate Investors Association reports strong rental markets near all major installations, making buy-and-hold strategies viable for military families facing future PCS moves. Rental Market Strength: Low vacancy rates (typically under 5%) Strong rental demand from incoming military families Property management companies specializing in military tenants Positive cash flow potential in most markets Future PCS Considerations: Arizona's growing popularity ensures strong resale markets, protecting your investment whether you sell or rent after your next PCS. Getting Started: Your Arizona PCS Action Plan Month 6: Initial Planning Research neighborhoods online using VeteranPCS resources Connect with Arizona-based VeteranPCS agent Begin VA loan pre-qualification process Month 3-4: Serious Shopping Schedule house-hunting trip to Arizona Tour potential neighborhoods and school districts Submit offers with military-friendly timelines Month 1-2: Final Preparations Coordinate closing with PCS timeline Arrange utility connections and military installation access Connect with local military family networks Why Choose VeteranPCS for Your Arizona Move Moving to Arizona represents more than a PCS—it's an opportunity to build equity, join thriving military communities, and enjoy year-round outdoor living. Our Arizona-based agents understand military timelines, VA loan processes, and the unique needs of military families. Whether you're buying your first home at Luke AFB or planning investment property near Davis-Monthan, VeteranPCS agents provide the expertise and military understanding you need for successful Arizona real estate decisions. Start Your Arizona Adventure Today Connect with a VeteranPCS expert to explore your options and make your Arizona PCS move smooth and successful. Share this guide with other military families considering Arizona—because military families help military families succeed.
PCS Frequently Asked Questions
Am I disqualified if I have a bankruptcy or foreclosure on record?
How do I know how much I’m qualified for with a VA Loan?
How Many Times Can I Use My VA Home Loan Benefit?
Are There Closing Costs Associated with a VA Loan?
Can I Have Two VA Loans?
How do I apply for a VA guaranteed loan?
Employment
Transitioning Military
Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) connects the military community—service members, military spouses, and veterans —with American businesses to create economic opportunity and a strong and diversified workforce.
Hire Heroes USA provides free job search assistance to U.S. military members, veterans and their spouses, and we help companies connect with opportunities to hire them.
We've helped hundreds
Of military, veterans, & their families
Trista Allen
From a realtors perspective, VeteranPCS has always been amazing to partner with through the transaction, I have worked with them on the buying side and my clients are always satisfied with them. Responsive, informative, and amazing support for both myself, and my clients. I look forward to partnering with them in future transactions.
James Nicholson
Much better than the competition. Great communication and they don't give you lip service. They give you full service with veterans who knows their stuff.
Moving your life resources
Offers military spouses and veteran- owned small businesses
Goods from families who give. Shop small, big impact.
Calculate the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) amount you will receive at your next duty station based on location, pay grade, and dependency status.
active duty and veteran military spouse business owners tools and resources
The leading free, comprehensive, user- friendly directory of businesses owned by military veterans
It’s time to course correct. Veteran entrepreneurship rates plummeted in the 20th century.
VeteranPCS Trusted Resources
Trusted veteran and military spouse owned resources, businesses and organizations.
PCS Frequently Asked Questions
Am I disqualified if I have a bankruptcy or foreclosure on record?
How do I know how much I’m qualified for with a VA Loan?
How Many Times Can I Use My VA Home Loan Benefit?
Are There Closing Costs Associated with a VA Loan?
Can I Have Two VA Loans?
How do I apply for a VA guaranteed loan?
Together we'll make it home. Veteran & Military Spouse Real Estate Agents and VA Loan Experts You Can Trust
