PCS Season House-Hunting Guide

house with a sunset Every year, from May through August, the Emerald Coast becomes a hub of relocation activity as military families receive Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. If you’re one of the many service members transferring to Hurlburt Field, Eglin Air Force Base or NAS Pensacola, finding the right home quickly and confidently can feel overwhelming. This is where were come in!

Navarre Real Estate Source is a proud veteran and woman-owned agency that understands the PCS process because we’ve lived it ourselves. Here’s a simple guide to finding a home that checks all of your boxes, without the stress.

Prioritize Location: Commute Times and Access

One of the biggest questions when moving to a new duty station is: How long will my commute be? Whether you’re headed to Hurlburt Field, Eglin AFB or NAS Whiting Field, the following local areas offer easy access:

Navarre: Centrally located between Hurlburt Field and Eglin AFB; Navarre is popular with families due to highly rated schools and beach access.
Mary Esther: Closest to Hurlburt Field, this growing area offers a quicker commute and affordable housing options.
Fort Walton Beach: Offers a mix of established neighborhoods just 15-25 minutes from both Hurlburt and Eglin. Neighborhoods Kenwood and Northgate are highly sought after by long-time locals and PCSing families.
Shalimar: A small and quiet community just minutes from Eglin AFB.
Pace and Milton: Ideal for those assigned to NAS Whiting Field or who prefer a quieter, more rural lifestyle but don’t mind the longer commute times.

Pro Tip: Ask your agent about neighborhood traffic patterns! U.S. 98 can be unpredictable during peak hours.

Research School Zones and Kid-Friendly Amenities

If you’re relocating with children, we know school districts matter! Our area is home to several A-rated public schools and charter programs. Popular options include:

Holley-Navarre Primary & Intermediate Schools: Consistently ranked among the best in the area.
Kenwood and Elliott Point Elementary: Well-rated schools in Fort Walton Beach.
Pace High School: A top-rated high school for families living farther north.

Our real estate agents work closely with our clients to tailor our search to your desired school zone and family’s needs.

Also look for:

Nearby parks and playgrounds
Community pools or splash pads
Sidewalks and walkable neighborhoods
Youth sports leagues and recreation centers

Choose a Home That Meets VA Loan Guidelines

Most active-duty military buyers use their VA loan benefit, which means it’s essential to find a home that already meets VA appraisal standards. This includes:

No major roofing or water issues
Functional heating and electrical systems
No peeling paint on older homes

Our agents are experienced in VA loan transactions and can help you avoid properties that could cause delays or costly repairs.

Consider Move-In Ready and Flexible Closing Options

We know PCS timelines are tight. You may have just a few days to house-hunt and even less time to close! We’ll narrow our search to find homes that are:

Vacant or move-in ready
Available for a quick close
Willing to offer early occupancy if your furniture is delayed, if needed
Located in neighborhoods with military-friendly HOA policies

Work With a Local Agent Who Understands PCS Moves

We know you’re juggling a lot: leave paperwork, TMO schedules, school enrollment, packing and more. That’s why it pays to work with a local team that’s done this before, both personally and professionally.

At Navarre Real Estate Source, we specialize in working with military families relocating to Northwest Florida. Whether it’s virtual showings, coordinating inspections while you’re out of state or negotiating flexible occupancy, our team is here to make your move as smooth as possible.

Your Next Duty Station Starts with the Right Home, With NRES.

A PCS doesn’t have to mean stress and guesswork. With the right guidance, you can find a home that fits your lifestyle, timeline, and VA benefits.. all while enjoying the white sandy beaches the Emerald Coast has to offer.

If you’re relocating to Hurlburt Field, Eglin AFB or NAS Pensacola, let Navarre Real Estate Source be your boots on the ground. We’re here to help you find more than just a house; we’ll help you find your Florida home.

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