A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is part of military life but that doesn’t make it any less stressful. If you’re relocating to Colorado Springs, you’re not alone. Thousands of military families transition here every year thanks to bases like Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, and the Air Force Academy.
At Veteran Home Team Colorado, we’ve helped countless service members make the move smoothly. Here’s your step-by-step real estate checklist to make your PCS as stress-free as possible.
1. Secure Your Orders Then Contact a Local VA-Savvy Agent
Once you have official PCS orders in hand, it’s time to take action. Connect with a local real estate agent who understands VA loans, BAH timelines, and military relocation stressors. Not all agents “get” military life — we do because we’ve lived it.
Pro Tip: Reach out before you physically move. Many of our military clients buy homes remotely with virtual tours and digital paperwork.
2. Nail Down Your Budget (Including BAH)
Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) plays a key role in determining your homebuying power. Use your rank and zip code to estimate your BAH for Colorado Springs, then pair that with a VA-friendly lender to see what you qualify for.
We recommend working with lenders who specialize in VA loans — they know the ins and outs and can make your approval smoother.
Bonus: VA loans typically require $0 down and no private mortgage insurance (PMI), which means more buying power for you.
3. Decide: On-Base or Off-Base?
Some families prefer the structure of base housing. Others want to invest in property and settle into a civilian neighborhood. There’s no wrong answer — but knowing your preferences will help narrow your search.
- If you choose off-base housing, we can guide you toward neighborhoods with:
- Quick commute times to your duty station
- Highly rated schools
- Veteran-friendly communities
- Good resale value or rental potential (for when the next PCS hits)
4. Understand the Market Timing
Colorado Springs has a fast-moving real estate market — especially in the spring and summer months. If your PCS is happening mid-year, homes may go under contract in just a few days. Start your search early, get pre-approved fast, and be ready to write a strong VA offer.
Don’t worry, we know how to make your VA offer stand out.
5. Plan for Virtual Home Buying (If Needed)
Can’t visit in person? No problem. We’ve helped dozens of families buy homes sight-unseen using:
- Live video walk-throughs
- 3D tours
- E-signatures for all contracts
- Local partners for inspections and repairs
- You’ll stay in control of the process even from across the country or the world.
6. Prepare for Arrival
Once your offer is accepted, the countdown begins. Here’s what we help you coordinate:
- Home inspection and appraisal
- Utilities setup
- Closing date aligned with your arrival
- Move-in readiness (cleaning, repairs, etc.)
- We even offer local resources for movers, daycare, pet boarding, and more — just ask.
Final Thoughts
PCS moves come with challenges but buying a home in Colorado Springs shouldn’t be one of them. Whether this is your first move or your fifth, Veteran Home Team Colorado is here to help you find stability, community, and a place to call home.
Let’s make your transition smooth, strategic, and stress-free.
📞 Call or text Julie at 719-367-8676
📧 Email: julie@veteranhometeamco.com
🔗 Learn more: www.veteranhometeamco.com
