Relocating for military service is more than an ordinary move; it’s a major life transition. Between tight timelines, unpredictable orders, and the emotional toll of uprooting your family, a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can feel overwhelming. But with the right preparation, mindset, and support, it can also be an opportunity to begin a rewarding new chapter.
Whether you’re heading to Camp Lejeune or another military base along the Coastal North Carolina shoreline, this guide will help you navigate your relocation with confidence, and maybe even a sense of excitement for what’s to come.
Understanding the Military Move Timeline
Every military relocation begins with a set of orders and a ticking clock. Once you receive those orders, it’s crucial to start organizing right away. Military timelines often leave little room for delay, so make a checklist early. Schedule movers through the Defense Personal Property Program (DPS), gather records and paperwork, and keep a folder of everything, both digital and printed.
Having a clear structure helps reduce stress when things inevitably shift. Remember, even the most organized plans may require flexibility. Partnering with a real estate agent who understands the rhythm of military relocations, especially near bases like Camp Lejeune, can help keep things on track when timing is tight.
Choosing the Right Location
When relocating to Coastal North Carolina, location is everything. Many military families are drawn to areas such as Hampstead, Wilmington, and Topsail Island, which are within a reasonable commute to Camp Lejeune. Each offers a distinct lifestyle, from laid-back beach vibes to the family-friendly communities inland.
Think about proximity to work, schools, shopping, and recreation. Consider how much you value coastal living versus suburban quiet. A real estate agent with local expertise can help you identify neighborhoods that match your lifestyle, ensuring your new home feels right, not just convenient.
Buying vs. Renting
When making a military move, the question of whether to buy or rent can feel complex. If your orders are short-term, renting might make sense. But for many families stationed at Camp Lejeune for three years or longer, buying can be a smart investment, especially given the area’s steady market and high resale potential.
An experienced agent can help you weigh your options, factoring in Basic Housing Allowance (BHA) rates, potential equity growth, and resale value.
Preparing for a Quick Move
Speed and efficiency are key to a successful PCS move. Begin decluttering early by donating, selling, or storing items you don’t need. Create a “first night” box with essentials like toiletries, bedding, snacks, and chargers. Keep important documents, medications, and valuables with you rather than packed away.
If you’re selling your home, lean on professional staging and photography to make it stand out online. The first impression, especially for relocating buyers, often happens virtually. With the right preparation, even a tight timeline can lead to a smooth transition and a quick, successful sale.
Navigating the Emotional Side
Military moves are about more than logistics; they’re about people. Leaving friends, schools, and familiar places behind can be difficult, especially for children. Create a sense of continuity by involving the whole family in the process. Visit your new city virtually, explore local landmarks, and plan something fun to look forward to once you arrive.
Recognizing the emotional side of relocation helps make the process feel less transactional and more transformational. This is where empathy and community matter most, and where working with an agent who understands those dynamics can make all the difference.
Understanding the Local Market
Each community surrounding Camp Lejeune has its own rhythm, property trends, and lifestyle appeal. From the calm, coastal neighborhoods of Surf City to the suburban charm of Hampstead and the vibrant pace of Wilmington, understanding the nuances of each area will help you make the best decision for your lifestyle and budget.
Research local amenities, school ratings, and commute times. Reach out to community groups or military spouse networks for firsthand insight. A little preparation goes a long way in finding the right neighborhood fit.
Making the Most of Military Benefits
One of the best parts of relocating through the military is access to benefits that can ease financial pressure. VA loans allow qualified buyers to purchase homes with no down payment and favorable rates. Programs like Military OneSource and Move.mil also provide resources for budgeting, housing support, and moving logistics.
A skilled real estate agent familiar with these programs can help ensure you’re maximizing every available opportunity, saving you time, stress, and money in the long run.
Settling In with Confidence
Once you’ve arrived at your new duty station, take time to explore your surroundings. Connect with local support groups, meet your neighbors, and find your new favorite spots, whether it’s a coffee shop, a walking trail, or a beach to unwind after a long week. Settling in isn’t just about unpacking boxes; it’s about building belonging.
Leaning on local experts and fellow military families can help you feel at home faster, turning your PCS experience from daunting to rewarding.
Every Move Is a Fresh Start
Each relocation brings its own challenges but also incredible opportunities. New places, new people, and new beginnings await with every move. With preparation, perspective, and the right guidance, you can navigate your next PCS with confidence and ease. Whether it’s your first move or your fifth, remember that the right home, and the right team, can make all the difference.
Find Home Wherever Duty Calls
For many military families, moving is part of life, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Having someone in your corner who understands the process from personal experience can make all the difference.
As both a military spouse and a Military Relocation Professional, Savannah Holman has lived the challenges of PCS moves firsthand. When she and her husband relocated to Coastal North Carolina with military orders, she experienced the uncertainty, tight timelines, and emotional toll that come with moving under pressure. That experience shaped her mission as a real estate professional: to help other military families transition with confidence and care.
Today, she combines deep local knowledge with compassion and strategy, guiding families to homes that fit their needs, timelines, and lifestyles. From helping you understand VA loan options to connecting you with trusted local lenders, Savannah works to make every move feel easier and every client feel supported.
Whether you’re buying your first home near Camp Lejeune, selling before a new set of orders, or simply looking for a smoother relocation process, she’s ready to help you make your next move your best one yet.
Contact Savannah Holman today to begin your relocation journey with someone who understands both the mission and the meaning of home.
