How to Buy a Home After a PCS Move to Texas (Without Losing Your Mind)

PCS orders in hand? First off—thank you for your service! Now let’s talk about turning this new assignment into your next opportunity for stability, comfort, and smart real estate investment.

Moving to Texas doesn’t have to mean base housing or endless rentals. You can buy a home during or right after your PCS—and yes, it’s possible to do it without losing your mind.

Here’s how.

🎯 Step 1: Know Your PCS Timeline

Your first move is to get clarity on your timeline. Ask yourself:

• When are you required to report?

• Will you have temporary lodging (TLA/TLE)?

• Are you coming alone or with family?

• Are you open to buying sight unseen with virtual tours?

This helps set realistic expectations—and gives us time to plan ahead to make the transition smooth.

💵 Step 2: Understand Your VA Loan Benefits

VA loans are an amazing perk for active-duty military—and one of the best tools you can use when PCSing.

Benefits include:

• 0% down payment

• No private mortgage insurance (PMI)

• Competitive interest rates

• Easier credit and income guidelines

Not all lenders are great with VA loans, though—so let me help connect you with someone local who truly understands the process.

📑 Step 3: Get Pre-Approved Before the Move

Whether you're house-hunting from across the country or driving into Texas with a moving truck, getting pre-approved early puts you in a better position.

Why it matters:

• You know exactly what you can afford

• You’ll move faster in a competitive market

• You’ll look stronger to sellers

You’ll need pay stubs, LES, COE (Certificate of Eligibility), and a few financial documents—I'll guide you through it all.

🌎 Step 4: Choose the Right Area (Not Just Near Base)

Bases like Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Cavazos, or Lackland AFB are surrounded by great communities. But don’t limit yourself to what's closest.

Consider:

• School districts (Comal ISD is popular for military families)

• Commute vs. space & amenities

• Resale or rental potential after PCS

• Future investment growth

Areas like Spring Branch, New Braunfels, Canyon Lake, and Bulverde offer peaceful living with great access to the city.

📲 Step 5: Use a Military-Savvy Real Estate Agent

Buying after a PCS is different than buying in your hometown. You need a Realtor who:

• Understands VA loans

• Can work with out-of-state buyers virtually

• Knows the stress of fast timelines

• Can recommend military-friendly lenders and inspectors

• Advocates for you when you're not yet in town

I specialize in helping military families PCS smoothly and smartly—and I’ll be your boots on the ground when you can’t be here yet.

🧭 Step 6: Decide—Buy Before or After You Arrive?

There’s no wrong answer—just what’s right for you.

✅ Buy Before PCS:

• Lock in a home

• Start BAH right away

• Avoid temporary housing

✅ Buy After PCS:

• Tour in person

• Get to know the area

• More flexibility with timing

We’ll weigh the pros and cons together and make the right move for your family.

🗝️ Step 7: Close & Move In—Without the Chaos

Once you’re under contract, I’ll manage:

• Inspections

• Appraisal

• Repair negotiations

• Closing coordination

All while keeping you updated with videos, calls, and deadlines.

By the time you land in Texas, your home can be move-in ready—with utilities turned on, locks changed, and welcome mat waiting.

🎖️ Ready to Make Texas Home?

PCS moves don’t have to mean temporary living. Let’s find you a home that works for your family today—and builds wealth for your future.

📞 Kathleen Courville
📱 469-441-9517
📧 kathleencourvillere@gmail.com
🌐 kathleencourville-realtor.com

I’m here to make your PCS transition smooth, smart, and successful—because military families deserve more than just base housing.