Buying your first home is exciting but when you’re doing it on a military timeline, it can also feel overwhelming. Between PCS orders, financing questions, and the challenge of finding a home that fits your family’s needs, the process can seem like a maze of moving parts.
For many service members and military families, purchasing a home is more than just a financial decision; it’s a milestone of stability and pride. With the right preparation, understanding, and support, you can turn what might feel like a complicated process into a smooth and rewarding experience.
Start with a Plan
Military life moves fast, and housing decisions often have to keep up. The moment you receive relocation orders, start planning your next steps. Establish your timeline, set a budget, and connect with a real estate professional who understands military moves and VA loans.
Unlike civilian moves, military relocations come with unique pressures: short notice, tight deadlines, and sometimes unfamiliar local markets. An agent experienced in military relocation, like Savannah Holman, can help you prioritize what matters most: proximity to base, strong resale potential, and a community that feels like home.
Understanding the VA Loan Advantage
The VA loan is one of the most valuable benefits available to service members and veterans. It’s designed to make homeownership more accessible by removing common barriers. With no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and competitive interest rates, VA loans make it easier to purchase a home with less upfront cost.
However, it’s important to know how the process works. You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA, which your lender can help you obtain. While VA loans often have specific appraisal and inspection standards, these requirements protect you, ensuring the home you buy is safe, sound, and a solid investment.
Choosing the Right Lender
Not all lenders are equally familiar with VA loans. When you’re shopping for financing, look for a lender who specializes in working with military buyers and understands the nuances of the program. Local lenders near bases like Camp Lejeune often have deep experience helping service members navigate the process smoothly.
A trusted lender can walk you through pre-approval, explain your borrowing power, and help structure your loan so it fits within your Basic Housing Allowance (BHA). Being pre-approved before you start house-hunting also strengthens your offer in a competitive market.
Deciding Where to Buy
For many military families relocating to Coastal North Carolina, proximity and lifestyle are key. Communities near Camp Lejeune, such as Hampstead and Wilmington, each offer their own unique advantages.
If you’re dreaming of ocean breezes and beach-town charm, Topsail Island and Wrightsville Beach offer beautiful coastal living. If you prefer a small-town feel with family-friendly amenities, Hampstead delivers both convenience and comfort.
The right real estate agent will help you weigh factors like commute time, school districts, neighborhood values, and long-term resale potential so you can make an informed choice that fits your family’s lifestyle.
Preparing for the Home Search
Once your financing is in place, it’s time to start your search. Create a list of your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” This helps keep your priorities clear as you tour homes.
Because military moves can be quick, many families shop for homes virtually before arriving. A skilled agent can provide virtual walkthroughs, video tours, and local insights so you can make confident decisions from afar. When you’re buying from a distance, communication is everything, so choose a professional who keeps you informed every step of the way.
Understanding Closing Costs and Fees
Even with a VA loan, you’ll want to budget for certain costs. While there’s no down payment, there may be closing costs, escrow fees, and the VA funding fee (which can be financed into your loan).
Your lender will outline these expenses clearly, but it’s always smart to plan ahead. Working with a local expert familiar with VA-friendly lenders and programs can help minimize your out-of-pocket costs. Some sellers may even agree to cover part of your closing expenses, depending on the market.
The Importance of a Home Inspection
Even though the VA requires an appraisal, that’s not the same as a full home inspection. A professional inspection is your opportunity to learn about the condition of the home and identify any potential issues before closing.
Your agent can recommend trusted inspectors who understand local homes and construction styles. Think of this step as your peace of mind: knowing you’re investing in a home that’s not just beautiful, but safe and structurally sound.
Building Long-Term Equity
Many military families hesitate to buy because they worry about moving again. But the right home, in the right location, can build equity and become a stepping stone for your future.
If you expect to be stationed at Camp Lejeune for several years, buying can be financially advantageous. And even if your orders change, a well-located home can easily become a rental property, offering income and investment potential for years to come.
An experienced agent will help you think beyond the immediate move and plan for the long-term value of your purchase.
Lean on Local Expertise
The home-buying process is always smoother with the right guide. A Military Relocation Professional (MRP) like Savannah Holman combines empathy with expertise, helping families navigate timelines, financing, and transitions with ease.
As a military spouse who’s personally lived through the PCS process, Savannah knows the stress, excitement, and unknowns that come with buying a home while serving. Her goal is to make your transition as seamless as possible, so you can focus on what really matters: settling into a home you love.
From Orders to Ownership
Buying your first home is more than a checklist; it’s a journey toward stability and belonging. With the right preparation, resources, and guidance, military families can approach homeownership with confidence. Every step, from pre-approval to closing, is an opportunity to build equity, community, and lasting memories.
Whether you’re buying your first home or your forever home, remember that it’s not just about where you live, it’s also about the life you create inside it.
Your Next Mission: Home
Your service has taken you around the world. Now it’s time to find a place that feels truly yours. From navigating VA loans to finding the right neighborhood near Camp Lejeune, Savannah Holman is here to make your first home-buying experience seamless, informed, and rewarding. With local expertise and a deep understanding of military life, she’ll help you turn relocation into realization.
Contact Savannah Holman today.
