The Importance of Credit in the PCS Cycle A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is often a whirlwind of orders, packing, and goodbyes. However, if your goal is to buy a home at your next duty station, your credit score is your most important asset. A higher score unlocks lower interest rates. For a
Pre-PCS Credit Score Boost: The 90-Day Plan Read More »
The Modern Haven for Military Families A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move brings a long to-do list. You find a house, enroll the kids in school, and unpack endless boxes. However, your first priority should be safety. In 2026, home security has moved far beyond simple door locks. For military families, smart technology is
Home Security & Smart Tech for Your Next Duty Station Read More »
Reflecting on a Vision of Equity Every January, we pause to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We often remember his words on equality, justice, and peace. However, Dr. King also fought deeply for economic justice. He understood that a family’s ability to own a home is a fundamental pillar
MLK Day: Building a Legacy Through Home Ownership Read More »
Understanding the 2026 BAH Increase The calendar has turned to 2026, and for nearly one million service members, that means a change in their monthly housing allowance. The Department of Defense recently implemented a national average increase of 4.2% for Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). This change took effect on January 1, 2026. For military
New Year, New BAH: Maximizing Your 2026 Rates Read More »
The holidays are over, and PCS season is approaching. Learn how to reset your finances and prepare for a mortgage in the 2026 market. Focus on credit health, debt-to-income ratios, and maximizing your VA loan benefits. The New Year Mortgage Mindset The holiday season often leaves even the most disciplined military families with a “financial
Post-Holiday Financial Reset: Getting Mortgage-Ready Read More »
A Return to Market Stability The real estate market is finally finding its footing. After years of “frozen” inventory and high interest rates, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of the “Great Housing Reset.” For military families, this means a shift away from the chaotic bidding wars of the past toward a steadier,
Looking Ahead to Real Estate Trends for 2026 Read More »
The Heart of Holiday Hosting Hosting during the holidays is a generous act of service. It typically involves managing a long list of responsibilities: planning a menu, decorating the home, and ensuring every guest feels welcome. For military families, this often means opening your “home of the moment” to fellow service members who cannot travel
Holiday Hosting for Families in Smaller Spaces Read More »
The Homeowner’s Tax Advantage Owning a home is a cornerstone of building financial security. It also comes with significant tax benefits. For many taxpayers, the federal deduction for homeownership expenses is a major reason to itemize their deductions. If your itemized deductions are greater than the standard deduction, you should itemize. The core homeowner deductions
2025 Tax Deductions for Military Homeowners: What to Prepare Now Read More »
The Unique Challenges of a Holiday Home Search Military life rarely follows the traditional real estate calendar. PCS orders can arrive at any time. This means you may find yourself house hunting during the busy holiday season. This timing presents real challenges for military families. First, you will find less inventory. Many sellers pull their
Home Search During the Holidays: A Buyer’s Advantage Read More »
The Winter Home Sale Challenge for Military Families Selling your home is never easy. Selling it during the cold, short days of winter adds extra complexity. This challenge can feel magnified for military families facing a tight Permanent Change of Station (PCS) timeline. You may not have the luxury of waiting for spring. One major
Winter Curb Appeal: How to Make Your Home Shine in Cold Weather Read More »
