April 18, 2017, by Mikkie Mills – Working for the Military can sometimes mean a transfer to working to a different base. When that transfer call comes it means that you’ll need to find new housing. Transferring to a new base may lead to the opportunity to live on base, but sometimes on-base housing is unavailable, or maybe you just prefer to be located off base. When buying a new home for PCS orders there are some location considerations to keep in mind.
1. Proximity to Work
While searching for a new house you’ll need to keep in mind the distance between your house and the base. Some people can handle long commutes, but having a shorter commute time tends to be more appealing. Maybe you have a job that necessitates quick access to the base. In most cases, it’d be a good idea to set a maximum distance you’re willing to travel and work to find a home within that radius. It most cases it’s beneficial to take a trip out ahead of time to scout out the area. That way you can get a better feel for the area and take note of any “for sale by owner” signs that catch your eye.
2. Area Stores
You want to make sure that you have all the food shopping resources you need close to your home. The last thing you want is for your ice cream bars to melt because it takes you half an hour to drive home from the grocery store. Try to find a home that is within a 15-minute drive of at least one or two of your favorite grocery stores. There is evidence that living near grocery stores can help you to eat a healthier diet. If you eat out a lot, it may be better to look for a place that is close to your favorite restaurants instead.
3. Crime
If you live in a big city, you undoubtedly must make area crime statistics one of your location considerations. Even if you are picking out a house in the suburbs, it is a good idea to look at the crime statistics. Keeping your family safe is one of your primary duties, and picking out a safe neighborhood where your kids can play outside is one of the greatest gifts you can provide your family.
4. School District
If you have kids, an important consideration you need to make is what school district you want to live in. Providing your kids with a quality education is very important as it can have a big impact on their future. Even if you have to sacrifice a little bit on your other location considerations, living in a good school district may be well worth the effort.
5. Closeness to Friends and Family
If you have the opportunity to work at a base that is close to family and friends then don’t forget to factor their proximity into your location equation. You should consider trying to find a location that allows all members of your family to stay as close as possible to their friends. If you have kids, finding a house close to other family members means you will rarely have trouble finding a babysitter. It is also nice for your children to be able to visit their cousins, aunt, uncles and grandparents as much as possible while they are growing up. However, consider a distance where you’re close to family, but where you’re still allowed some personal space.
6. Day and Night
There is one final location consideration you need to make. Make sure you check out any potential house both during the day and at night. Neighborhoods often change drastically between night and day. You need to see what a neighborhood is like under both conditions to determine if it is somewhere you really want to live.
Finding a new home is no easy task. You will likely have to search long and hard to find the perfect home for your family. When you do though, you will know the right house when you find it. It’s a wonderful feeling to realize you have found a home that is in the perfect location for your family. Follow the above tips and you’ll be sure to find a house in the perfect spot for your needs.
About the Author: Mikkie is a freelance writer from Chicago. She is also a mother of two who loves writing about family, home improvements, and the occasional DIY project. When she’s not writing, she’s chasing the little ones around or can be found rock climbing at the local climbing gym.