PCSmoves.com Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.pcsmoves.com/blog/Copyright PCSmoves.com2024-01-09T08:08:55-07:00tag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:16855Effective Strategies To Reduce Family Stress with Military Relocation <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/iStock-1446902335.jpg" width="2667" height="1124" />
Relocating with family can be an overwhelming experience, especially for military personnel who often undergo frequent moves. The process of packing up your life, saying goodbye to familiar surroundings, and starting afresh in a new location can bring about stress and anxiety. However, by implementing effective strategies, you can minimize the challenges and ensure a smoother transition for both yourself and your loved ones. In this article, we will explore some practical ideas to reduce the stress of relocating with your family.
Plan Ahead: Proper planning is the foundation of a successful and stress-free relocation. As soon as you receive notice of your upcoming move, start creating a comprehensive moving checklist. Break down the tasks into manageable steps and establish a timeline to accomplish them. This proactive approach will help you stay organized and avoid last-minute chaos. Involve your family in the planning process, assign age-appropriate tasks, and ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.
Communicate Openly: Clear and open communication is crucial when relocating as a family. Discuss the upcoming move with your spouse and children, addressing any concerns or fears they may have. Encourage everyone to express their emotions and actively listen to their thoughts. Be honest about the challenges and uncertainties, but also emphasize the positive aspects of the move, such as new opportunities and experiences. By fostering an open and supportive environment, you can alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of togetherness.
Research the New Location: Take the time to gather information about your new destination. Explore the local community, schools, healthcare facilities, recreational opportunities, and support services available for military families. Share this knowledge with your family to help them visualize their new environment and alleviate any apprehensions they may have. Engage your children in the research process by showing them pictures or videos of the area, highlighting fun attractions, and involving them in choosing activities they might enjoy.
Seek Support from Military Resources: The military community offers valuable resources to assist families during the relocation process. Contact your installation's relocation assistance program, family support center, or spouse organizations for guidance and support. They can provide information on housing options, schools, and local services, as well as connect you with other families who have experienced similar moves. Utilizing these resources can help ease the transition and provide a sense of camaraderie and support.
Involve Children in the Packing Process: Involving children in the packing process can empower them and help alleviate their anxiety about the move. Allow them to pack their belongings, decorate their moving boxes, and label them with their names. Encourage them to make a "moving day" box with their favorite toys, books, and comfort items to keep with them during the transition. This engagement will give children a sense of control and ownership over their belongings and help them feel more at ease during the move.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/Military_Relocation.jpg" width="2165" height="856" />
Establish Familiarity in the New Home: As you settle into your new home, prioritize creating a sense of familiarity and comfort. Unpack essential items first, such as bedding, toiletries, and favorite family possessions. Arrange familiar furniture and decor to recreate a familiar environment. Set up your children's rooms early on, ensuring they have familiar items and their personal spaces are welcoming and comforting. This familiarity will help everyone adjust more easily to the new surroundings.
Relocating with family can be a challenging endeavor, but by implementing effective strategies, you can reduce stress and create a smoother transition for everyone involved. Through careful planning, open communication, research, seeking support from military resources, involving children in the process, and establishing familiarity in the new home, you can navigate the relocation experience with greater ease and ensure a positive start in your new location. Remember, maintaining a positive outlook and embracing the opportunities that come with each move will go a long way in easing the stress and embracing the adventure of military relocation with your loved ones.
If you are ready to move, we are here to serve you. Our real estate professionals can help you find the perfect home as well as answer many of your questions about our area. 2023-07-12T13:34:45-07:002024-01-09T07:29:44-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12830Coming to Naval Station Norfolk Soon?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/image1.png" width="1000" height="600" />
Coming to Naval Station Norfolk Soon?
Search For Homes For Sale Around Your New Duty Station.
PCSMoves.com invites you to browse homes that are currently for sale in proximity to <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/naval-station-norfolk/">Naval Station Norfolk</a>, or <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/regional-base-guide/">another new duty station</a> in Hampton Roads, Norfolk, Southeastern Virginia, and Northeastern North Carolina. We make it easy for you to sort your home searches by military base/installation.
Naval Station Norfolk is the headquarters for the <a href="https://www.usff.navy.mil/">U.S. Navy’s Fleet Forces Command</a> and the world’s largest naval station. It has the largest concentration of Naval forces and vessels with 75 ships, 14 piers, 134 aircraft, and 11 aircraft hangars. It is located at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sewell%27s_Point">Sewell’s Point</a> in Norfolk, Virginia.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/image1.jpg" width="600" height="400" />
Norfolk, Virginia is a vibrant harbor city located along the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay in Southeastern Virginia. Notable neighborhoods that are favorites for Naval personnel include <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#nearby_false,-1/city_Norfolk/subdiv_Ghent/">Ghent</a>, <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#nearby_false,-1/city_Norfolk/subdiv_Ocean%20View/">Ocean View</a>, <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#nearby_false,-1/township_Bolling%20Brook/">Bolling Brook</a>, <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#nearby_false,-1/county_Norfolk/elementaryschool_Bay%20View/">Bay View</a>, <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#nearby_false,-1/city_Norfolk/subdiv_Cromwell%20Farm%2CWilloughby%20Beach/">Willoughby Beach</a>, and <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#nearby_false,-1/city_Norfolk/subdiv_Cromwell%20Farm/">Cromwell Farm</a>. Most neighborhoods feature traditional homes and yards filled with established trees. City living is available as well in downtown Norfolk with modern mid-rise buildings featuring condominium homes and waterfront views. <a href="https://www.downtownnorfolk.org/">Norfolk</a> has fantastic entertainment, museums, and restaurants, as well as medical facilities and tech employment centers.
Early in your PCs move process, you can use this search tool to research home prices and options in the area around your new duty station. If you need assistance, <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">one of our Military Relocation Specialists</a> will be happy to get you the information you need. We look forward to serving your home buying needs. Welcome to Norfolk!2023-06-17T07:31:00-07:002023-07-12T13:24:51-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:16092Memorial Day 2023: Historic Places Near Hampton Roads, Virginia, to Honor and Commemorate Our Heroes<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/memorial_day_2023.jpg" width="1000" height="400" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember the brave individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. With its rich military history, the Hampton Roads area in Virginia offers numerous historic sites to visit and pay tribute to our fallen heroes. Here are some notable locations near Hampton Roads to help you plan your Memorial Day 2023 observance.
Fort Monroe National Monument, Hampton
Fort Monroe, also known as "Freedom's Fortress," played a pivotal role in our nation's history, from the Civil War to World War II. The Casemate Museum within the fort highlights the area's military heritage, making it an ideal place to reflect on the sacrifices made by our service members.
Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington
While not located in Hampton Roads, Arlington National Cemetery is just a short drive away and is a must-visit destination for Memorial Day. This hallowed ground is the final resting place for more than 400,000 service members and their families. The Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a solemn and moving experience.
Jamestown Settlement, Williamsburg
Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that provides a glimpse into the lives of the first English settlers in America. Visiting this historic site is a reminder of the challenges faced by our ancestors and the origins of our country's military history.
The Virginia War Museum, Newport News
The Virginia War Museum features an extensive collection of military artifacts and exhibits that span from the Revolutionary War through current conflicts. A visit to this museum on Memorial Day provides an opportunity to learn about our military history and honor the sacrifices made by generations of service members.
The MacArthur Memorial, Norfolk
Dedicated to the life and achievements of General Douglas MacArthur, this memorial in downtown Norfolk offers a wealth of information on both World Wars and the Korean War. Take a moment to reflect on the brave men and women who served under MacArthur's command.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/memorial_day_2023_historic_hampton_roads_places_to_visit_fields_of_poppies.jpg" width="1000" height="344" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
The Mariners' Museum and Park, Newport News
The Mariners' Museum and Park is home to the USS Monitor Center, which showcases the history of the famous Civil War ironclad. This museum provides an insightful look into the lives of the sailors who served aboard the Monitor and the sacrifices they made for our country.
Yorktown Battlefield, Yorktown
The Yorktown Battlefield, part of the Colonial National Historical Park, marks the site of the decisive battle that ended the Revolutionary War. Visit the battlefield and the nearby Yorktown Victory Monument to pay your respects to the courageous men who fought for our nation's independence.
The Military Aviation Museum, Virginia Beach
The Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach houses one of the world's largest collections of military aircraft from both World Wars. By visiting this museum on Memorial Day, you can learn about the history of military aviation and pay tribute to the pilots who served our country.
These are just a few of the historic sites near Hampton Roads, Virginia, that provide a meaningful and educational way to honor and remember our fallen heroes on Memorial Day 2023. As we pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice, let us also express our gratitude to those who continue to serve and protect our nation.2023-05-10T05:34:23-07:002023-05-10T05:51:19-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:15128Care Package Ideas for Deployed Family Members<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/ideas_for_care_packages_deployment.jpg" width="1061" height="444" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
When a loved one is deployed in the military, it can be especially challenging to show your support and let them know you are thinking of them. A great way to provide comfort and reminders of home during a deployment is by sending a care package. Care packages can be a lifeline for a deployed service member and can help them feel connected to their loved ones back home. Here are some care package ideas for military deployments that are sure to bring a smile to your loved one's face.
Snacks and Treats
Snacks and treats are a great way to remind your loved one of home. Consider sending their favorite snacks or a mix of sweet and savory treats. You can include items like beef jerky, energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit. Just be sure to check the shipping restrictions for any items that may not be allowed in the deployed location.
Personal Care Items
Personal care items are a practical and thoughtful gift that can help a deployed service member stay healthy and comfortable. You can include items like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, deodorant, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. You can also add in a few extra treats like razors, shaving cream, or a favorite brand of soap. These items may not be readily available in the deployed location, so they will be greatly appreciated.
Photos and Letters
Being away from loved ones is one of the toughest aspects of a military deployment. Sending photos and letters is a great way to help your loved one feel connected to home. You can include pictures of family members, friends, and pets. You can also write letters to your loved one and include them in the care package. Encourage other friends and family members to write letters as well to create a bundle of love and support. Included with letters and packages (where possible) are email and other communication from home. Being there for them with positivity and encouragement is likely the best care package possible.
Comfort Items
Deployments can be extremely stressful, and sometimes it's the little things that make all the difference. Consider sending comfort items like a cozy blanket, a soft pillow, or a warm scarf. You can also include items like a stress ball or a small plush toy to help your loved one relax and destress. These small items can make a big difference in helping the deployed service member feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Entertainment
Deployments can be long, and it's important to have ways to pass the time. Consider sending entertainment items like a deck of cards, a puzzle book, or a book by their favorite author. You can also include a subscription to a streaming service like Netflix or Hulu or a few new movies to watch. (This is probably something to ask them about in advance. They can tell you what is available where they are.) These items can help the service member relax and take their mind off the stresses of deployment.
Personalized Items
Personalized items are a great way to remind your loved one of home and let them know you're thinking of them. You can include items like a customized photo album or a personalized keychain with a special message or inside joke. You can also send a customized mug or a t-shirt with a special message or design. These type of gifts do not have to cost much, but often they mean the world as your loved one knows that they come uniquely from you.
Seasonal Items
If your loved one is deployed during a specific holiday or season, consider sending items that will help them celebrate. You can include items like a small Christmas tree and decorations for Christmas, flags and decorations for the Fourth of July, or Halloween-themed care packages for Halloween. For those that are fans of a college or professional sports fans, memorabilia or mementos from their favorite team can be a great boost.
Care packages are a great way to show your support and love for a loved one who is deployed in the military. Whatever you choose to include, remember that the most important thing is letting your loved one know that they're in your thoughts and that you're there for them, no matter where they are in the world.2023-02-16T08:35:31-07:002023-02-16T08:56:23-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11552Are You PCSing to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story? Search For Homes For Sale Around Your New Duty Station.<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/f576ya8ZN6syS3jmBB1a6zsqYyL7qR9y5RyCsYs15m5FKH0G31IDBkc-THkq2aoHIlWXOAiTDilqXe4fO_B5EeX-rs92E_lskii3oS4-6VQ10yUhbtrOUUukGNn-EpT86Blk3p5G" width="1000" />
Are You PCSing to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story?
Search For Homes For Sale Around Your New Duty Station.<br />
PCSMoves.com invites you to browse homes that are currently for sale now in proximity to <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nab-little-creek/">JEB Little Creek - Fort Story</a>, or <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/regional-base-guide/">another new duty station</a> in Hampton Roads, Norfolk, Southeastern Virginia, and Northeastern North Carolina. When you search on PCSMoves.com, it will be easy to sort your home search by military base/installation.
<a href="https://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrma/installations/jeb_little_creek_fort_story.html">JEB Little Creek - Fort Story</a> is the United States’ premier installation for Expeditionary Forces. It is a combination of the former Naval Amphibious Base at Little Creek, and the Army Post of Fort Story. Both bases are located along the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Fort Story has the distinction of housing the historic site of the first landing by English colonists in 1607. The base at Little Creek began as the training ground for the amphibious assaults of World War II.
If you are early in your transition/move, you can use this as research for home prices and options in the area around your new duty station.
If you need assistance, we invite you to <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">contact one of our Military Relocation Specialists</a> and they will be happy to get you the information you need. We look forward to hearing from you!2023-01-23T14:59:00-07:002024-01-09T08:07:49-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:14472The Happiest Of Holidays<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/happy_holidays_pcs_1.jpg" width="1000" height="395" />
As we approach this holiday season, we hope that it is filled with hope, joy, friends and family. Our wish is that you are surrounded by warmth and love. Here are some fun (and no cost!) things to do here in Hampton Roads to help bring the Christmas spirit to you and yours.
Some Fun Local Christmas Light Displays & Activities
Deck The Hall - Chesapeake City Hall, 306 Cedar Rd November 25th - January 1st from 6-9 pm. There is no cost for this drive through display.
Holiday Wonder Walk - Hampton Coliseum parking lot 1000 Coliseum Drive. Dec 19-25 from 5-8pm. Free and open to the public
ARTech Lights - Newport News Brooks Crossing, 550 30th Street Dec 3 - Jan 1st 5-9pm Free and open to the public
Elf Door Discovery - Downtown Norfolk This is a daytime (the doors are not lit up) scavenger hunt. Find all the colorful doors throughout downtown Norfolk.
Candy Cane Hunt - Dowdy Park in Nags Head OBX 3005 South Croatan Hwy Thursday December 15th from 5:30 - 6:30pm This a free and open to the public event where kids can search for candy canes at the park.
Festival of Lights - Suffolk Sleepy Hole Park, 4616 Sleepy Hole Road Nov 30 -Dec 30 5:30-9:30pm. Free and Open To the Public
Snowglobe Spectacular - Virginia Beach Town Center November 25 -December 31 6pm - 9pm Free and Open To the Public. Live entertainment on Weekends.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/pcs_holidays-2.jpg" width="1000" height="433" />
“One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas Day. Don’t clean it up too quickly.” – Andy Rooney
May your Holidays be filled with glorious messes and fun memories made. We wish you the Merriest of Christmases and the Happiest of Holidays!2022-12-13T05:21:57-07:002023-02-16T07:02:17-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:14465Military Holiday Mailing Dates for 2022<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/military_holiday_shipping_dates_2022.jpg" width="1000" height="455" />
2022 Military Holiday Mailing Deadlines
Each year, we try to post the deadlines for mailing holiday cheer to deployed Military members and their families. They are serving far away so that we can enjoy the holidays here in peace and freedom and packages from home mean so much to them. Making sure that packages arrive by December 25th is important. The U.S. Postal Service recommends the following deadlines to make sure your packages make it on time.
For most Continental US destinations, the cutoff date is:
USPS Retail Ground or First Class Mail Dec 17
Priority Mail Dec 19
Express Mail Dec 23
For Mail to APO / FPO Addresses
Priority Mail & First Class Mail Dec 9
Express Mail Delivery (PMEMS) Dec 16
For those who may be first timers to mailing gifts to their military loved ones, here are a few restrictions to keep in mind. Any items that are on any of these lists are restricted:
<a href="http://pe.usps.com/text/pub52/welcome.htm" data-wct-parsed="1">Publication 52 – Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Mail</a>.
QSG 601 Basic Standards for All Mailing Services – Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Materials.
Domestic Mailing Standards, section 10.0 Hazardous Materials.
There may be other restricted items depending on which APO or FPO that you you are sending packages to.
Some questions and answers.
Q: Can I use the U.S. Postal Service’s ‘<a href="https://reg.usps.com/entreg/LoginAction_input?app=GSS&appURL=https://cns.usps.com/" data-uw-rm-brl="false">Click-N-Ship</a>’ program, and the “<a href="https://about.usps.com/postal-bulletin/2009/pb22265/html/info1_004.htm" data-uw-rm-brl="false">If It Fits, It Ships</a>’ flat-rate mailing boxes?
A: Yes! You can use flat rate boxes!
Q: Can I print labels and postage before coming to the post office?
A: Yes! Protip: Most offices have a drop off point so you can avoid waiting in line. It's a timesaver!
Q: How can I make sure that mail gets to the right place?
A: It ia always a good idea to add another slip of paper INSIDE your package with the APO address, name and rank of your intended loved one. This helps incase the outside of the package is damaged en route.
Other things to keep in mind:
Temperature: Sending packages means that they may be subjected to extreme temperatures. Delicate items such as electronics and food may not be suitable for shipping.
Packaging: It is important to send packages that are appropriately protected from normal handling that they will undergo. Items that are not packaged properly are likely to get damaged.
As always, if your post-deployment plans include a PCS move to or from the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact" data-uw-rm-brl="false">contact us</a> for assistance. 2022-12-08T10:31:00-07:002022-12-12T11:42:58-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:14183Veterans Day 2022<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/iStock-528462035.jpg" width="2121" height="1414" />
Celebrating Veterans Day 2022
Whether you are enjoying one of the hundreds of free or discounted meals offered by local restaurants and eateries, marching in a local parade or observing a wreath laying at a local cemetary, we thank you for your service.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/iStock-475705392.jpg" width="350" height="239" style="float: right; margin: 20px;" />Your sacrifice (along with that of other veterans) allows everyone in America to enjoy the freedoms and liberties that we do.
“Better than honor and glory, and history’s iron pen, was the thought of duty done and the love of his fellow-men.” -Richard Watson Gilder
PCSmoves.com honors all of the heroes who have served the country and their fellow man with honor and bravery. We appreciate your service and we hope your Veterans Day is meaningful and an uplifting day for you.2022-11-10T10:59:28-07:002022-11-30T07:03:10-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:7731Selling Your Home in Hampton Roads<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/Selling%20Your%20Homes%20in%20Hampton%20Roads.png" width="1000" height="600" />Selling Your Home in Hampton Roads
Did you know that <a href="http://pcsmoves.com">PCSMoves.com</a> is powered by <a href="http://treg.com">The Real Estate Group</a>? We are a veteran-owned, local real estate firm, and ‘A Hampton Roads Original’. Our agents have deep roots in the community and know the market like the back of their hands. Plus, many TREG agents are veterans and military spouses of veterans. They are the best equipped and trained agents in the region. Many have PCSing experience and can help you when you rotate out of the area too. Here are some of the tools we employ to get your home sold fast, and for the best possible price.
Our Websites | <a href="http://treg.com">TREG.com</a> is our premier brokerage website. It is one of the most widely used real estate websites in our region including the Hampton Roads cities of Newport News, Hampton, Suffolk, Isle of Wight, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, and the counties of northwest North Carolina. This website provides access to the newest and most accurate listing information available including virtual tours, property photos, walking score, school information, and much more. When your home is displayed here, it increases the likelihood of selling quickly. Likewise, <a href="http://pcsmoves.com">PCSMoves.com</a> features the same listing content with a special marketing focus toward active-duty military and veteran communities. We have served thousands of military homebuyers and sellers as part of a national network of real estate brokers and agents.
Our Online Marketing | Our online marketing efforts focus largely on providing your home’s listing information to the largest and most visited websites around the world (think Zillow, Trulia, REALTOR.com). Since our region has thousands of military members moving in from around the globe, this guarantees your home’s listing is seen by targeted homebuyers. We excel at search engine optimization (SEO), which means that your home gets seen by more buyers.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/selling%202.png" width="1000" height="400" />Photography & Virtual Tours | Studies have shown that home buyers are most likely to visit homes that have multiple photos and virtual tours online. This also means that buyers visiting your home have already previewed it online and are highly interested before they walk through the front door.
Open Houses | We will expose your home to the widest possible audience. Your open house will be posted on our websites AND many of the national real estate search websites as part of multiple listing service data feed sharing.
We’re Social | We enhance the marketing of your home through strategic social media posting on multiple platforms that direct homebuyers back to our website and your listing.
In Print | When appropriate, we will highlight your home’s listing through print media that reaches offline buyers. We regularly advertise in local newspapers, direct mail, and magazines.
We invite you to contact one of our <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">Military Relocation Specialists</a> to find out more regarding selling your home here in Hampton Roads. Satisfied customers are the foundation of our business. Let’s get started today!2022-09-14T04:15:00-07:002022-09-14T07:57:31-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12033PCS Move To Norfolk Virginia? Here Are Some Things To Know!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/unnamed_99.png" width="1000" height="600" />
PCS Move To Norfolk, Virginia? <br />Here Are Some Things To Know!
A PCS transfer to the ‘Norfolk’ area can mean a lot of things. For one, the military community is expansive here. You actually may not be stationed in Norfolk itself. There are military installations from Yorktown to Northeastern North Carolina, and everywhere in between! All branches are represented here. You may be happy to live by the ocean, and have numerous military amenities to enjoy, or you may be happy with the large military community and camaraderie it provides. We are providing some ‘need to know’ information about the area that we hope you will find helpful well before you begin packing.
Location
200 miles south of <a href="https://washington.org/">Washington D.C.</a>
<a href="https://washington.org/"></a>Metropolitan area is referred to as <a href="https://www.virginia.org/places-to-visit/regions/hampton-roads/">Hampton Roads</a>, <a href="https://regionsofva.weebly.com/tidewater.html">Tidewater,</a> or <a href="https://www.virginia.org/places-to-visit/regions/eastern-shore/">Coastal Virginia</a>.
NBN is located on a peninsula known as <a href="https://www.pilotonline.com/history/article_eca5989a-045b-578d-8f7e-ee61b69797aa.html">Sewell’s Point</a>.
The cities of <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/">Chesapeake</a>, <a href="https://www.visitnorfolk.com/">Norfolk</a>, <a href="https://www.portsmouthva.gov/">Portsmouth</a>, <a href="https://www.suffolkva.us/">Suffolk</a>, and <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/">Virginia Beach</a> are considered to be the ‘southside’ of Hampton Roads.
<a href="https://www.hampton.gov/">Hampton</a>, <a href="https://www.nnva.gov/">Newport News</a>, <a href="https://www.visityorktown.org/">Yorktown</a>, and <a href="https://www.visitwilliamsburg.com/">Williamsburg</a> are located in north Hampton Roads, and are also known as the ‘<a href="https://www.virginiapeninsulachamber.com/">Virginia Peninsula</a>’.
Military
<a href="https://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrma/installations/ns_norfolk.html">Naval Station Norfolk</a> is the largest Navy base in the world. The base can host up to 75 ships along its piers, and has room for 130 aircraft. It supports the readiness of the entire Atlantic Fleet. The local military presence in greater Hampton Roads is the largest concentration of military personnel outside the Pentagon. Here is a list of the installations near Norfolk, the first link is general information, and the HOMES link following it has listings of homes for sale today in proximity to each base noted. We hope you find it helpful as you begin researching your new ‘home’.
<a href="https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Home/Shipyards/Norfolk/">Norfolk Naval Shipyard </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/norfolk-naval-shipyard/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/norfolk-naval-shipyard/"></a><a href="https://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrma/installations/nas_oceana.html">NAS Oceana </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nas-oceana/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nas-oceana/"></a><a href="https://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrma/installations/nas_oceana/dam_neck_annex.html">Dam Neck Annex </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nas-oceana/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nas-oceana/"></a><a href="https://portsmouth.tricare.mil/">Portsmouth Naval Medical Center </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/naval-medical-center/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.atlanticarea.uscg.mil/Atlantic-Area/Units/District-5/Sector-Virginia/">Coast Guard Portsmouth </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/uscg-sector-hampton-roads/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrma/installations/jeb_little_creek_fort_story.html">JEB Little Creek - Fort Story</a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nab-little-creek/">HOMES Little Creek</a> / <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/fort-story/">HOMES Fort Story</a>
<a href="https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/dod/jfcom.htm">U.S Joint Forces Command-Suffolk </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/dod-joint-complex/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrma/installations/nsa_hampton_roads/nsa_northwest_annex.html">NSA Northwest Annex </a><a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nsa-northwest-annex/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.jble.af.mil/">JBLE-Langley-Eustis </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/fort-eustis/">HOMES Eustis</a> / <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/langley-air-force-base/">HOMES Langley</a>
<a href="https://www.atlanticarea.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/District-5/District-Units/Sector-Virginia/Area-of-Responsibility/">Coast Guard Station Cape Charles </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#city_Cape%20Charles/state_VA/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.forcecom.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/FORCECOM-UNITS/TraCen-Yorktown/">Coast Guard Station Yorktown </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#city_Yorktown/state_VA/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrma/installations/nws_yorktown.html">Yorktown Naval Weapons Station </a><a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#city_Yorktown/state_VA/">HOMES</a>
<a href="https://www.dcms.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Director-of-Operational-Logistics-DOL/Bases/Base-Elizabeth-City/">Coast Guard Station Elizabeth City </a> <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/uscg-base-elizabeth-city/">HOMES</a>
Living in Norfolk
Historical charm is highlighted in the Norfolk area home styles, although the city’s vibrant <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#city_Norfolk/subdiv_Downtown%20Area/">downtown</a> area also provides a mix of both Victorian era homes along cobblestone streets and the modern aesthetics of luxury loft condominium homes. Granby Street is a hub offering restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues. This includes college students from nearby Tidewater Community College and Old Dominion University.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/UJqVnuFPRHPEWg4wE49vGx2WudfocJTD-NKcRd2LwDE3mr4HCwgmUZ2TheIk7qUNYEJYpbrNfJ1GsDOwDZMiUIQSfX6E4DfMwiINwkJkKL8EsF1ctSS6HCkLgfcRPycG5sdG9EoJ" width="473" height="316" />
The <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#city_Norfolk/subdiv_Larchmont/">Larchmont</a> neighborhood of Norfolk features classic bungalow homes that consistently draw military families to the area. If you're looking at an assignment to Naval Station Norfolk, NSA Hampton Roads, or even JFC Suffolk (which is just a quick drive through the midtown tunnel), this popular Norfolk district is an ideal choice. Other popular Norfolk neighborhoods include <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#city_Norfolk/subdiv_Ocean%20View/">Ocean View</a>/<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#city_Norfolk/subdiv_East%20Beach/">East Beach</a> along the Chesapeake Bay beaches and <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/results/#city_Norfolk/subdiv_Ghent/">Historic Ghent</a> with its funky, artsy vibe.
We suggest that before deciding where you want to live, get familiar with the local <a href="https://www.virginiadot.org/travel/hro-tunnel-default.asp">bridge/tunnel system</a> because it’s a huge factor for determining commute times. Traffic can regularly back up at bridges and tunnels in this coastal region.
Things to Do
Our miles upon miles of Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay shoreline provides much to do each season. You can easily enjoy all types of water activity - swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, SUP, sunbathing, and boardwalk/pier visits.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GliB0Vaxm3Wo4dK932in2xQkWCUYPU3iFMzNgNFbZemqbZA_1Vst9OAHHKVZehyQ5fHjit2B9LUoQcRvO7jSraOz-l2Xbu3ork1Gt-XC4qkVpfvyqZJq7JURK47YuJaru5O7TTi1" width="477" height="318" />
Off the beach, you will find myriad choices for family outings. The <a href="https://virginiazoo.org/">Norfolk Zoo</a>, <a href="https://norfolkbotanicalgarden.org/">Botanical Garden</a>, <a href="https://www.virginiaaquarium.com/">Virginia Aquarium</a>, <a href="https://childrensmuseumvirginia.com/">Children’s Museum</a>, <a href="https://www.colonialwilliamsburg.org/">Colonial Williamsburg</a>, and <a href="https://buschgardens.com/williamsburg/">Busch Gardens/Water Country USA</a> all make great ways to spend a day close to home. Hint: any of these places would make a terrific ‘day off’ with the kids on a house hunting trip to Norfolk before your move. The area also has many <a href="https://www.wavy.com/living-local/hampton-roads-parks-guide/">parks</a> and <a href="https://www.wavy.com/living-local/hampton-roads-hiking-guide/">nature trails</a> for outdoor lovers.
We love living here and know that you will too. <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">Contact us</a> and we can connect you with a <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">REALTOR®</a> who can listen to your needs and show you homes that are a perfect fit for your lifestyle. Welcome to Norfolk!2022-09-02T10:34:00-07:002022-09-02T11:21:34-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:13348Get To Know Our Local Military Attractions<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/Local_Military_Attractions.jpg" width="1999" height="1334" title="Local Military Attractions" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Our area thrives on having the world's largest naval base, Naval Station Norfolk. The military has shaped Hampton Roads and the Northeast North Carolina area. From the diversity of cultures in our area, the people who have come here because of the military and stayed because of the community, to how we go about daily life, the military has truly affected every ounce of this area.
We’ve rounded up the must-see military attractions in our area!
<a href="https://nauticus.org/explore/battleship-exhibits/about-the-battleship/">Battleship Wisconsin</a>, Norfolk
<a href="https://www.virginia.org/listing/fort-norfolk/4080/">Fort Norfolk</a>, Norfolk
<a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/content/history/museums/hrnm.html">Hampton Roads Naval Museum,</a> Norfolk
<a href="http://www.macarthurmemorial.org/">MacArthur Memorial</a>, Norfolk
<a href="https://militaryaviationmuseum.org/">Military Aviation Museum</a>, Virginia Beach
<a href="https://newportnewshistory.org/virginia-war-museum/">Virginia War Museum</a>, Newport News
<a href="https://www.nps.gov/fomr/index.htm">Fort Monroe</a>, Fort Monroe
Each of these is unique in its storytelling and brings to light the military history of our area. Which ones are you most excited about seeing?
2022-08-15T02:00:00-07:002024-01-09T07:30:28-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11850Are You PCSing to Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach?<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/VcKywK7YS9RtEiCKakPyQ0nGVBuCZjP-_-r_dIRY8oEzrFhFZyxGakRvofEe8ANjwdOXLNzpucEz0fy6_h20K2vHzzwtntoqfHKgT-keFXlvc-6rXH-qfCHg9xcaMFn478_RdNmI" width="1000" />
Are You PCSing to Naval Air Station Oceana In Virginia Beach?
With PCSMoves.com, you can easily search homes that are currently for sale near your new duty station! We invite you to browse homes that are for sale today in proximity to <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nas-oceana/">NAS Oceana</a>, or <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/regional-base-guide/">another new duty station</a> in Hampton Roads, the Virginia Peninsula, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Southeastern Virginia, and Northeastern North Carolina. PCSMoves.com makes it super easy to sort your home search by military base/installation. You can preview all homes for sale today below.
We love jet noise! Naval Air Station Oceana is the U.S. Navy’s East Coast Master Jet Base. The installation also includes Dam Neck Annex, and Naval Auxiliary Landing Field Fentress. The base has approximately 10,500 active Navy personnel and about 4,500 civilian personnel. NAS Oceana is the second largest employer in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
If you are early in your transition/move, you can use this as research for home prices and options in the area around your new duty station. If you need assistance, we invite you to <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">contact one of our Military Relocation Specialists</a>, they will be happy to get you the information you need. We look forward to assisting you with your PCS move. 2022-07-26T11:41:00-07:002022-07-27T07:46:23-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12943Unique Ways To Celebrate July 4th<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/image3.png" width="1000" height="600" />
Unique Ways To Celebrate July 4th
Independence Day is all about tradition… traditions of family get-togethers, parades, being outdoors, all culminating in watching fireworks displays. As a military family, you may find yourself in an unfamiliar place, or just wanting to ‘change it up’ this year. We have some ideas to give your holiday a little patriotic ‘twist’.
Patriotic Playlist | Put together a creative list that is inspired by the Great American Songbook. It can include old standards such as ‘America The Beautiful’, All-American songs like ‘Born in The USA’, or even songs that feature red, white, and blue in their titles. Let your imagination fly! We are thinking about Katy Perry’s ‘Firework’. Tell us about your list in the comments below.
Road Trip | Are you stationed near Washington DC? Consider a road trip to the National Mall. Trust us, there is nothing like seeing fireworks with the Washington Monument in the foreground.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/july4-2.jpg" width="389" height="260" />
From The Air | If you are planning on going out of town anyway, is it possible to schedule your flight so that you are taking off (or landing) around 9:30pm? In most major cities, you will have a front row seat, and a new perspective of the fireworks displays in your area.
Patriotic Potluck | Organize a red, white, and blue potluck. It can be a fun change from the traditional barbecues that are normally held on the 4th. Ask everyone to bring only red, white, or blue food. Think blueberries, strawberries, whip cream… and <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/vickie15/red-white-blue-food-ideas/">Pinterest</a>!
Get Showy | Ask your kids to mount a production for the 4th. Dress up as historical figures, recite the preamble to the constitution, sing patriotic songs, etc. This could keep the kids occupied the entire day, and you entertained that evening.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/july4-4.png" width="512" height="207" />
Propose A Toast | Your kids will love toasting to Independence with these kid-friend <a href="https://kitchenfunwithmy3sons.com/strawberry-jello-shots-with-pop-rocks/">strawberry jello shots with pop rocks</a>. They have a great flavor and the crunch of pop rocks!<br /><br />Movies Under The Stars | You can show <a href="https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/arts-and-culture/g21095983/4th-of-july-movies/">patriotic-themed movies</a> outside on your patio weather permitting. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Secret Uncle Sam | Just like secret Santa but different. Get some red, white, and blue ribbon to tie a few carnations and a festive note to your neighbors door knobs. You can also do this with balloons.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/july4-3.jpg" width="493" height="329" />
Play A Game | Instead of just watching sports, get out and play! Basketball, dodgeball, baseball, or volleyball are all great fun. If it happens to be a rainy day, play great American board games like Connect Four, Jenga, Monopoly, or Scrabble.
We hope that we have given you some alternative ideas for celebrating Independence Day this year. We extend our sincere thanks to all past and present service members who make our freedom possible, and especially all those who are currently deployed and far from their loved ones. 2022-06-29T12:04:00-07:002022-06-29T12:13:39-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12882Must-read VA Home Loan Tips<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/2.png" width="1000" height="600" />
Must-read VA Home Loan Tips
New to the VA home loan process? Using your VA home loan benefits to purchase a home is exciting, but can also be confusing. You’ll quickly learn new acronyms like APR (Annual Percentage Rate), GFE (Good Faith Estimate), and MPR (Minimum Property Requirements). Loan officers and underwriters will be asking for tax returns, pay stubs, and other documents. If you come to the process with some preparation and education, you will set yourself up for the best possible experience. We have included some tips that will be helpful along the way.<br /><br />Begin Without a Certificate of Eligibility | Your <a href="https://www.veteransunited.com/va-loans/va-home-loan-eligibility/#coe">VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)</a> is not needed to start the VA loan process. Normally, your lender will procure this document for you down the road. If you are concerned about your entitlement amount, or would feel better having the proof early, you can use the <a href="https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/homepage">VA eBenefits portal</a> to get started. Be sure to get with your lender of choice to start your pre-qualification/pre-approval process though. <br /><br />Review Your Credit Report | Before pursuing your loan prequalification, get a <a href="https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action">free copy of your credit report</a>. Examine the report for errors. About 25% of credit reports contain errors that have the potential to derail your home loan. A good thing to know is that lenders see different scores than consumers, and use a formula weighted for mortgage lending. <br /><br />Problems With Job Gaps | The preference for lenders is to see that you have had your current job for at least two years. That may not be feasible, especially if you have separated from the military recently. If you fall under the two year threshold, the lender will want to see continuity between previous employment, education, MOS, and your current employment. The lender may require that you are at your current job for a certain number of months. If you fall into this category, better to ask questions now. <br /><br />Pre-approval is Not a Guarantee | Pre-approval is important because it tells you how much home you can afford, and how much the lender will likely extend to you. VA loan pre-approval and pre-qualification will help. Pre-approval shows sellers that you are a serious buyer who will likely be able to close. Your pre-approval letter is a welcome sight to both home sellers and their real estate agents, and your offer to purchase should get serious attention. <br /><br />Find a VA-Savvy Agent | Your VA home loan is a specialized product that some lenders and real estate agents are more familiar with than others. <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">Find an agent</a> who understands the VA home loan benefit, saving you time and money. An important consideration is an agent who understands the VA home loan appraisal process, and will steer away from properties that may not meet the VA’s minimum property requirements.
Money Needed Up Front | Most VA homebuyers will not need to make a down payment. But you will need funds for an earnest money deposit, an appraisal, home inspection, and possible closing costs. You may get some of these returned to you at the closing table.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/image2a.jpg" width="1267" height="828" />
Understand Residual Income | Residual income is a very important requirement that is unique to VA home loans. The VA wants you to have a minimum amount of money left over each month after the mortgage payment and other major expenses. This benchmark changes by your family size and geographic location. It is important to understand this guideline. <br /><br />Home Inspection | A <a href="https://superinspectionpros.com/blog/top-10-benefits-of-home-inspections/">home inspection</a> is not required, but it is highly recommended. A home inspection allows you to get a clear look at the home you are purchasing and any potential problems that lie under the surface. You can renegotiate items with the seller after the inspection or you can use it for ‘informational purposes only’. <br /><br />Occupancy Requirements | The VA home loan is a program for primary residences so it has occupancy requirements. You are supposed to occupy the property within 60 days of your closing. A spouse can fulfill this requirement, which allows service members to purchase a home during a deployment. If you think that you may have potential occupancy issues, be sure to discuss them with your VA loan specialist. <br /><br />Buying New Construction | You can purchase a new construction home using your VA home loan benefit. You may need to get a short-term construction loan from the homebuilder or another financial institution to fund the home’s construction, then refinance that loan into a VA home loan using a construction-to-permanent refinance. <br /><br />Buying a Condo? Start Looking Early | Condominium homes are an acceptable property type for your VA home loan, but the condominium development needs to be on the VA’s list of approved condominium communities. If your chosen property is not in an approved community, you may be able to get it added, but the process can take some time. <br /><br />Community Property State? | If you are purchasing a home in a community property state, your lender can check your spouse’s credit score even if they are not going to be obligated to the loan. Plus, your spouse’s debts will likely be counted into your overall debt-to-income and residual income calculations. By providing income documentation, you may be able to offset the debt of your on-purchasing spouse.<br /><br />Child Support | If you are receiving child support, it may be able to be counted as effective income. Most lenders will want to see documentation that the support will likely continue for a few years after your loan closes. Conversely, if you are paying child support, that will be counted as debt.
We hope these tips will assist you along the road to home ownership using your <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/">VA home loan benefit</a>, and give you food for thought during your initial home purchase planning. Please do not hesitate to reach out to one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> for further assistance. 2022-06-24T07:19:00-07:002024-01-09T07:35:21-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12786Stumped On What To Get Dad For Father's Day?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/fathers-day-1.png" width="1000" height="600" />
Stumped On What To Get Dad For Father’s Day?
It’s almost here, that time to honor the Dads in our lives. It can be tricky to find the perfect gift. Our suggestion is to think outside the box. We have put together some gift ideas that may not have been on your radar, but may make terrific Father’s Day gifts. The gifts are in all price categories and interests. Enjoy!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/fathers-day-2.png" width="375" height="215" />
<a href="http://goldbelly.com">Goldbelly</a> is a curated marketplace of regional and artisanal foods. You can find products from famous restaurants and food stores throughout the country and have them shipped directly to your door. Dad may love the ‘<a href="https://www.goldbelly.com/duff-goldman/duffalo-cake?ref=merchant">Duffalo Cake</a>’, a chocolate cake with chocolate cream cheese filling from Duff Goldman, or how about <a href="https://www.goldbelly.com/angel-food-bakery-and-donut-bar/best-dad-ever-donuts?ref=search&search_id=67334294">BEST DAD EVER</a> spelled out in donuts???
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/fathers-day-3.png" width="597" height="289" />
How about a custom cornhole set? Then Dad can have a little ‘RnR’ right in the backyard. You can start shopping on etsy for all things cornhole, from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/search?q=custom+cornhole&explicit=1&is_personalizable=true">custom boards</a> to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/search?q=custom+cornhole+bags&is_personalizable=true">custom bags</a>, and everything in between.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/fathers-day-4.png" width="597" height="279" />
With a subscription to <a href="https://www.homechef.com/">Home Chef</a>, your Dad will receive fresh ingredients and recipes to create meals that include special dietary preferences and customization to his likes and tastes. <a href="https://www.penzeys.com">Penzeys Spices</a> has gift boxes that are great for gift giving. You can choose the classics, grilling spices, salt-free, or create a custom gift box.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/fathers-day-5.png" width="600" height="300" />
Dad will love being kept stocked up with all the razors, creams, and gels that he needs to maintain a fresh and smooth shave. A subscription to the <a href="https://www.dollarshaveclub.com/">Dollar Shave Club</a> will do just that.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/fathers-day-6.png" width="596" height="356" />
This <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Daughter-Magnetic-Wristband-Birthday-Carpenter/dp/B07VXCN5KK/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8&th=1">magnetic tool wristband</a> is something that Dad never knew he needed, but will never be without. No more putting screws or tiny drill bits in their mouth as they work on a project.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/jDlcU4ZoDeYdO8gIk-vpf0UtkNuOFMDs5ED1s5Uedi0VKtL917tkD26v50kYX72IsMg1IQ6JCg2W-lR1mR1FnO5AJHNnC_HQ0ZxMD6Q4Jx3m3iVbSjj7I_4t3FYxd-vSe53G15sJBGGxkgst" width="310" height="282" />
You can order a unique <a href="https://fairlightco.com/pages/design-your-own-portrait?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=%F0%9F%9A%80TS%20%7C%20WNL%20%7C%20Father%27s%20Day%20%7C%20WC%20%7C%20CBO&utm_term=WNL01%20%7C%20Usa%20%7C%20M%2BF%20%7C%2022-65%2B%20%7C%20Broad%20%7C%20AP&utm_content=FRL053%20%7C%20Video%20%7C%20Father%27s%20day%20%7C%20Turn%20your%20favorite%20memory%20into%20a%20masterpiece%20for%20Father%27s%20Day%F0%9F%98%8D%20-%20Copy%205&fbadid=23850894652720050&fbclid=IwAR3UKpBq-f33Ji3Qmcf19tdyUeM0iQmwaB5rbLNJF2L9laAkTkY28nZKvD4">custom illustration</a> for Dad from Fairlight Co. It’s super easy to order, select color palette and size, then upload your photo and go!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/fathers-day-8.png" width="366" height="347" />
These <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AWU1MUU?tag=bfjenae-20&ascsubtag=6225798%2C45%2C65%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Cgoogle%2C776%3A1%3B962%3A1%3B901%3A2%3B900%3A2%3B974%3A2%3B994%3A3%3B1115%3A2%2C18101029%2C0%2C0">magnetic glasses holders</a> give Dad a subtle place to hang their glasses when not in use. You may never hear, “hey, have you seen my glasses” again.
Have we sparked ideas for a Father’s Day gift for the dad in your life? We hope so. Remember that the most important gift is that of your time, time with Dad, time with family. Happy Father’s Day.2022-06-10T08:10:00-07:002022-06-29T10:34:09-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:127423 Quick & Easy Ways To Incorporate Red, White, and Blue Into Your Decor<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/rwb1.png" width="1000" />
3 Quick & Easy Ways To Incorporate <br />Red, White, and Blue Into Your Decor
Memorial Day, National Flag Day, July 4th, Veterans Day - red, white, and blue decor is always in style. Military families are especially proud of their patriotism, and love to show it. We have gathered some simple and affordable home decor ideas to celebrate the U.S.A! We hope to inspire you with these easy to accomplish ideas.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/rwb2.png" width="1000" />
The Front Porch | Looking for a subtle but impactful first impression perhaps? We like this wicker basket on the front door (vs. a wreath) with flags added instead of flowers. You can also add a flag to flower pots on your front porch to brighten things up. Quick Sources: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Small-American-Flags-Stick-Inch/dp/B09LVCTNQ7/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2ZTJNM2NZ7AU1&keywords=small+u.s.+flags+on+sticks+12%22&qid=1654268497&sprefix=small+u.s.+flags+on+sticks+12+%2Caps%2C51&sr=8-3">(10) 8x5” flags</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/GiftExpress-12-Pack-American-Handheld-Stitched/dp/B08J4HP2DQ/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1ZLFNIX7YP7Y1&keywords=small+u.s.+flags+on+sticks+8+x+12&qid=1654268651&sprefix=small+u.s.+flags+on+sticks+12%22%2Caps%2C45&sr=8-2">(12) 12x8” flags</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/rwb3.png" width="291" height="336" /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/rwb4.jpg" width="268" height="336" />
A Patriotic Tiered Tray | The beauty of the tiered tray is that it can be decorated on the fly for any season, holiday or occasion. It can also be moved around your home. It can be a centerpiece on your dining room table, placed on an entryway console table, it works almost everywhere. Here are some <a href="https://www.prudentpennypincher.com/tiered-tray-4th-of-july-decorations/">idea starters</a> to get your creativity going. Stars, flags, small signs can all be added to give the tray an Americana feel. Quick Sources: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/4W-Serving-Galvanized-Cupcake-Dessert/dp/B08KG9Y26H/ref=sxin_14_pa_sp_search_thematic_sspa?content-id=amzn1.sym.bdb62de4-4445-472f-a46c-4743abbcf384%3Aamzn1.sym.bdb62de4-4445-472f-a46c-4743abbcf384&crid=30J3OO4V7MQEQ&cv_ct_cx=galvanized+tiered+tray&keywords=galvanized+tiered+tray&pd_rd_i=B08KG9Y26H&pd_rd_r=e1045fc1-353a-498f-9edf-eefec4289433&pd_rd_w=C7htv&pd_rd_wg=dqwDk&pf_rd_p=bdb62de4-4445-472f-a46c-4743abbcf384&pf_rd_r=YN1C2K6QD6EN3NF2SRRE&qid=1654269219&sprefix=galvanized+tiered+tray%2Caps%2C49&sr=1-1-8acce81c-1022-4788-a21d-98553f7388f3-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExWVdCQ1ZEQlIwMExDJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjcwNDA2MUgzNTRESUNLODdIQSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNTE1MDUwMjFYVzBBMFAzVUpSNSZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX3NlYXJjaF90aGVtYXRpYyZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=">Galvanized tiered tray</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/rwb5.png" width="300" height="364" /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/rwb6.png" width="268" height="364" />
On The Mantel | Your fireplace mantel is a focal point of your home, what better place to add some patriotic touches. Consider adding an inexpensive flag fabric garland as an easy way to add patriotic interest and color to a neutral fireplace. Small flags and festive stars can also be added. Here is <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pkr613/mantel-ideas-for-july-4th/">some inspiration</a> to get you started. You may also consider moving some your your military memorabilia to the mantel, a flag case, and even vintage military items depending on your decorating style. Quick Sources: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/search?q=red%20white%20blue%20flag%20garland">Flag fabric garland</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=grapevine+star&i=garden&crid=1D2RTADYE66C5&sprefix=grapevine+star%2Cgarden%2C62&ref=nb_sb_noss_1">grapevine stars</a>.
America is a tune.
It must be sung together.
GERALD STANLEY LEE
<br />We invite you to share your favorite ways to add some fun red, white and blue color in your home in the comments below. And, if you have an upcoming PCS move to or from the Hampton Roads region of Virginia/North Carolina, please <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">reach out</a> to one of our experienced Military Relocation Specialists. 2022-06-07T05:51:00-07:002022-06-29T10:44:59-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12616See, Go, Do - Memorial Day Weekend Edition<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/52022PCSMovesBlog_MemorialDay2022.png" width="1000" height="600" />
See, Go, Do - Memorial Day Weekend Edition
As you know, Memorial Day is a day to honor, remember, and reflect on those veterans and military personnel who died in military service. May is also Military Appreciation Month and many businesses have special offers and discounts available to active-duty military personnel, their dependents, and veterans.
National Memorial Day Ceremonies & Events For 2022
This list highlights some 2022 National Memorial Day events. You can use this <a href="http://www.military.com/base-guide/">Base Guide</a> to find events that are planned near your local installation.
<a href="https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Visit/Events-and-Ceremonies/Ceremonies/Memorial-Observances">Arlington National Cemetery</a>
This ceremony takes place on May 30th at the Amphitheater. The President of the United States typically delivers an address at the Memorial Day ceremony. Free and open to the public.
<a href="https://www.pbs.org/national-memorial-day-concert/">National Memorial Day Concert</a>
The National Memorial Day Concert will be broadcast on Sunday, May 29th at 8 p.m. Eastern. You can check your local listings to watch, or go to the <a href="https://www.pbs.org/national-memorial-day-concert/">concert website</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/blogquote1.png" width="1000" height="450" />
<a href="https://www.americanveteranscenter.org/avc-events/parade/">National Memorial Day Parade</a>
The National Memorial Day Parade returns in person for 2022 along Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C. The event begins at 2 p.m. Monday, May 30, 2022. James H. Harvey, a veteran of the Tuskegee Airmen and a decorated Korean War aviator, will serve as Grand Marshall. Find out where to watch <a href="https://www.americanveteranscenter.org/avc-events/parade/national-memorial-day-parade/watch-parade/">here</a>. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.theworldwar.org/memorialday">National WWI Museum and Memorial</a>
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is located in Kansas City, Missouri Their Memorial Day Observance takes place on May 20 at 10am and will feature Retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Larry R. Jordan as keynote speaker. Open and free to the public.
<a href="https://www.vvmf.org/2022-Memorial-Day/">Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Annual Observance at The Wall</a>
This year's ceremony takes place May 30th at 1pm and features keynote speakers Chuck Hagel, the 24th Secretary of Defense; and retired Air Force Col. Edward L. Hubbard. A virtual showing of the ceremony can be found <a href="https://www.vvmf.org/live">here</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/blogquote2.png" width="1000" height="450" />
<a href="https://www.abmc.gov/news-events/news/memorial-day-2022-abmc-sites">American Battle Monuments Overseas</a>
The American Battle Monuments Commission holds <a href="https://www.abmc.gov/news-events/news/memorial-day-2022-abmc-sites">Memorial Day ceremonies</a> at cemeteries throughout the world. This year the theme is - Together, We Remember. You can catch livestreaming on their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/usabmc">ABMC</a> social media platforms.
While the weekend is a time to pause and reflect on those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we know that you will, more than likely, also enjoy time out with your family and friends in the sun! Here are some <a href="https://www.military.com/military-appreciation-month/military-appreciation-month-discounts.html">military appreciation discounts</a> to check out. Have a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend. And, thank you for your service. 2022-05-20T10:48:00-07:002022-06-30T06:59:14-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12552PCSing To USCG Base in Elizabeth City, North Carolina?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/5222PCSMovesBlog_USCGElizCitySEARCH_UPDATED.png" width="1000" height="600" />
PCSing To USCG Base in Elizabeth City, North Carolina?
The <a href="https://www.dcms.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Director-of-Operational-Logistics-DOL/Bases/Base-Elizabeth-City/">United States Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City</a> is located in the heart of Northeastern North Carolina, and is the branch’s hub for coordinating supplies and support throughout the region. This USCG Base in Elizabeth City is an extremely busy facility benefiting from a large network of boats, aircraft, cutters, and ships. The base provides professional support in the following areas: Electronic, Personnel, Comptroller, Pastoral, Health Safety Work Life, Operations, Procurement and Contracting, and Engineering.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/Aerial_Elizabeth_City_Shoreline.jpg" width="800" height="467" />
<a href="https://www.cityofec.com/">Elizabeth City</a> is nestled on the Pasquotank River and Intracoastal Waterway and is loaded with quaint Southern charm. You will feel at home in no time at this aptly-named ‘Harbor of Hospitality’ because of its warm and friendly atmosphere. Many accolades have been bestowed on the city including:
Declared An Official Coast Guard City in 2015
Named One of The 100 Best Small Towns in America
Named One of The Best Places to Live on The East Coast by Money Magazine
Life on the water is enjoyed many ways, from kayaking and boating, to fishing near the Waterfront Park. Regional parks located nearby include both <a href="https://www.ncparks.gov/merchants-millpond-state-park/home">Merchants Millpond State Park</a> and the <a href="https://www.ncparks.gov/dismal-swamp-state-park/home">Dismal Swamp State Park</a>, and have over thirty miles of hiking and biking trails to enjoy. You are also a short drive from North Carolina’s famous <a href="https://www.outerbanks.org/">Outer Banks</a> beaches, and the cities of the Hampton Roads, Virginia area. There is a lot to enjoy in Elizabeth City. The town has a rich history, but is progressive and growing.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1913/image/rentals-hero.jpg" width="1140" height="760" />
We invite you to contact one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> to get started on planning your PCS move and finding a new home here. We can work with your BAH rates to find the best options for an off-base home that fits your lifestyle and budget. We have the resources you need to make important decisions. Plus, you can take a look below to tour homes for sale right now near the USCG Base.2022-05-13T06:30:00-07:002024-01-09T07:46:18-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12497Tips For Military Moms For Mother's Day<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/IVbcp__uX0OZq9prfuJiRlxS2NZrOai7XMaBl4HxYzbxhIkSo5yLhZicTMQn-G7Aq5Ucrm9b2epBGOHbMNeDfgf5mGb4pNWSpnYHF8ODd_nU0jiuF2BsCTednVRnfgx6PuEO6ksUyfz0VB9_rQ" width="1000" />
Tips For Military Moms For Mother’s Day
Military service members sacrifice much of their lives for their mission. Moms sacrifice a lot for their families. Moms of service members are a special breed often showing care and concern from afar. And worrying, always worrying.
These tips are for mothers of military service members, and they focus on managing the stress and anxiety that inevitably comes with mothering a child in a potentially dangerous profession.
LEARN ACCEPTANCE | Accept what is not within your control. Refocus on things that you can control and plan for and shift from focusing on those things that you cannot control like deployments. Focus on learning about your child’s branch of the service so that you can ask meaningful questions when you are able to speak with them. Plan for quality time activities when you are able to speak with or see them.
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5C7qwPbj8lwqE1uSDzFPNW5b1Pwca-kQ3UE-ps9GfEw_HivEvoW6kM00QZwdXRV3irXDsiQTMM-G-I1q0ujgjhxXBmh2niaDHjzGiGYIM_JNi5cCQNMcMmiYMJ8nDZWltUojizvJd740A7-Ftw" width="290" height="193" /> <img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zpw9hckne8UeAA4IUKPtPDP8-dajCg_BwmbTzJQyKmgEUgFvV_tY3w4KHgB1GtKH6l1uSYt3rZpgQhHyohQ0MM1Y9GsgCogZv7LmYxpq_nosLQaQJAJNd9dkE3flyx0JEhHWsZGoBXLejOtiTA" width="289" height="193" />
TALK ABOUT IT | Identify your supportive friends and family, and potential mentors that you can trust sharing your feelings with. You can share your pride in your child’s service, your concern for their safety, and everything in-between. Research local (and online) <a href="https://www.operationwearehere.com/MilitaryFamilySupportOrganizations.html">support groups</a> of parents of service members to connect with.
TAKE CARE | … of yourself!!! Take care of your body with exercise, healthy eating habits, getting enough sleep, seeking medical care when needed, engaging in activities that bring peace and rest, and having fun! Feed your mind by learning something new, listening to music, reading, spending time in nature, practicing spirituality and/or religious activities, traveling, and getting involved in causes that are meaningful to you and provide purpose. Don’t be afraid to consult a <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us">licensed therapist</a> if things get to be too much and interfere with your ability to function.
NOTE: <a href="https://www.med.upenn.edu/mfc/">The Cohen Clinic at Penn</a> offers free mental health support for military members including parents of service members, and veterans!
CHECK IN WITH YOURSELF | <a href="https://pca-global.com/how-to-monitor-your-thoughts-and-why/">Monitor your mind</a> and check in with yourself and your thoughts.
Are you continually defaulting to the worse-case scenario? Is your thinking accurate, or is it based on fears or opinions? Is your current thinking helping you support your child? Consider adopting a more balanced perspective by engaging in positive self-talk, refraining from jumping to conclusions, and focusing on facts.
TRUST THE PROCESS | Your child is being trained how to best take care of themselves and keep themselves safe. Try to find comfort in that. <a href="https://psychcentral.com/lib/keeping-good-boundaries-getting-your-needs-met#2">Know your mental boundaries</a> so you can be there for your child with love, support, and encouragement, but pull back if you cannot manage your feelings. Seel support when you need it.
As Mother’s Day approaches, you may be feeling fearful or uneasy about your child. This holiday may intensify those feelings. Remember that your child has entered a new phase in their lives - a phase with growth and challenges. Adjust to find a <a href="https://family.drlaura.com/b/Three-Ideas-to-Create-A-Healthy-New-Normal-After-the-Empty-Nest/801017360439569937.html">‘new normal’</a> that feels right for you. This will be the best way to keep yourself and your child serving in the military safe, strong, and supported. And, the best way to maintain a loving relationship with them. If you have any other ideas to share, please leave a comment below. 2022-05-05T12:45:00-07:002022-05-05T12:48:11-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12441Family Fun Destinations in Hampton Roads, Virginia<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/dunSaBhockhUjebCuciTKb68yDcniHRFMZ03T9r0hfKgI1anjbRzt7r8aVFliEDk3D7awcoc240lWrhGQxHN9gy5eP54w5VJW5JWEZ0bB_6Orms-06-uOGW1P9wtY956De2TeTWf" width="1000" />
Family Fun Destinations In Hampton Roads, Virginia
Hampton Roads is home to military members from all branches. It is a great hometown, and a vacation destination for folks from all over the United States. Whether you are here now, or have PCs orders and will be moving here, we want to recommend some outstanding things to do with your family here. This region is a fantastic blend of history, entertainment, and natural beauty. We are the birthplace of English settlement in the Americas, and have miles of shoreline and beaches to play on. Our list contains things to do with your kids that we think they will really love.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/j6era7cEdME2dvy9_WtggDkXJlAxTjZGQsC3MrHUvKLS7KU2clcYJIElCedfpUyfHmED8mzG5fyV2opwy3oYXfc12cSZ5iSIzPhnlVwXMUaMfHiuPLzPjBO_LwW3MVvvCm1Jwaw6" width="430" height="292" />
<a href="https://www.colonialwilliamsburg.org/#utm_source=tripadvisor&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=business_listing">Colonial Williamsburg</a>
This is a live-action recreation of one of our nation’s original settlements. You can tour 18th-century shops, gardens, homes, and municipal buildings. The restaurants here serve 18th-century tavern fare with a modern twist. There is always something to do and see here. Check out their <a href="https://www.colonialwilliamsburg.org/events-calendar/?date=today&from=navvisit">calendar of events</a>. If you have already been to the historic area, you can visit the art museums on the grounds, stroll the grounds of <a href="https://www.wm.edu/">William & Mary</a>, or have a picnic on one of the many green spaces throughout the historic district.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/atj5CahErFLhCZ7miYUj-c5Sqds6dzj_UFbtgEcGBfw0ANbug1Z5Kq2P4VJvH30be153LM_xxwBlhbvi7kLupdWk96NollIh9qDalxNyYhtJmJYlmG98EfCVihpfqZXAi5LR_0VC" width="429" height="226" />
<a href="https://buschgardens.com/williamsburg/">Busch Gardens Williamsburg</a> & <a href="https://watercountryusa.com/">Water Country USA</a>
This can be several trips, or an all out weekend of fun! You really can’t PCS to Hampton Roads without a family trip to Busch Gardens! This amusement park really has something for everyone - great roller coasters, international themed villages and foods, a great kids play area, and beautiful grounds. It is a family favorite here. The park is open all summer, and has special events for Halloween and Christmas. There are <a href="https://buschgardens.com/williamsburg/tickets/military/active-duty/">military discounts and complimentary admissions for active-duty personnel</a> available too!
You can keep cool and have a great day at Water Country USA, also located in Williamsburg. Small kids can safely enjoy the shallow and heated splash parks and pint-sized water slides. There are a dozen water slides, thrill rides, and a lazy river for those who like to float. You can reserve a cabana and have a central meeting spot to enjoy lunch and take a breath from the sun.
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/PZGtgd72o2LANqvxd7XY79JuxLBtbu2kIIt4Mqv4L6li11n58iU6J8bScDxbSDac4JXB1VMX1grFEJWjIQeL275CLQzPqp-H--h6HTS6rQ1r5q6kUmGf88T0seqpVHKzqnzMtFFx" width="430" height="286" />
<a href="https://www.tripsavvy.com/things-to-do-virginia-beach-boardwalk-4172036">The Virginia Beach Oceanfront & Boardwalk</a>
A perennial favorite! The boardwalk features traditional summer fun and fare. You can rent bicycles to navigate the 3-mile length of the paved boardwalk. Enjoy traditional beach favorites like <a href="https://www.forbescandies.com/taffy">salt water taffy</a> and egg custard. On summer evenings, the boardwalk area features <a href="https://beacheventsvb.com/">entertainment</a>. If you are stationed near this area, you may enjoy visiting the boardwalk during the off-season for a less crowded experience. <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/listing/grommet-island-park/663/">Grommet Island Park</a> anchors the southern end of the boardwalk and has a beach and playground combination with raised sand tables and a hand-operated scoop that kids love! <a href="https://www.vbgov.com/government/departments/police/Animal-Control/Documents/faqscitycodes.pdf">Dogs are allowed</a> on Virginia Beach from after Labor Day to before Memorial Day weekend.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ovQhocByfV7EoxoirE2sSa8OAjpgbkAegnWMxOaCJXzIIQmcmJ4Vj9MQe5bElkDvbjaOUPk1yIcbFBeiSOwFZz4Lu1q5RUX16IdKPWDhf5Jnsyfg_-Dust0CSKPo-_xtuqWeD3_i" width="430" height="264" />
<a href="https://virginiazoo.org/">Virginia Zoological Park</a>
The zoo is located within <a href="https://www.norfolk.gov/facilities/facility/details/36">Lafayette Park</a> in Norfolk. Kids love seeing the giraffes and farm animals with interactive options for getting up close and personal. There is a kid-sized train that runs through the zoo and provides a rest and view of the zoo grounds. On warm summer days, the kids will enjoy the splash garden (pack extra clothes!). Many parents purchase the affordable annual pass and visit often.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TuYPW4O3JWbOsLQM6HHNivL8LfLolGr4L7Zjq95pvN0PnZeTnl87efZp7BIe0KldAhVkKSTeIviEUvAoCwvyS-e0yzfGyM9lzIo2nUWBHA9qkImGQbslbmM_jS2uT3wFvY0r5-7Q" width="431" height="287" />
<a href="https://childrensmuseumvirginia.com/">Children’s Museum of Virginia</a>
This is a great hands-on, poke and prod type of space that kids love. The exhibits are colorful, entertaining, and focused on topics that kids adore. They have an entire room devoted to trains, a music room where they can play with instruments made from household objects, a planetarium, and a grocery store.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Kv3KckaRTtWeQttgszM1_vGmBZzHoXPvgGCYZxvoYkz53meqYK3Og61aVpcPNdB2DjsUkpJ0bfuxgui5_M4EqSaZvsZJ9EW7xHuQnoJuezRTSuKHwfqH2BzGpaHAm5f7OYlUbfGx" width="429" height="286" />
<a href="https://vasc.org/">Virginia Air & Space Science Center | NASA Langley Visitor Center</a>
Right in NASA’s backyard is this Hampton, Virginia museum featuring interactive displays, space artifacts, static air and space craft, and cutting edge exhibits. The museum also has an <a href="https://vasc.org/now-showing/">IMAX theater.</a>
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/sKqydzYH6E_LWdukUKYw0KJ-_Pc_jLXks6xukncC6C4FUVIHKGx3WJ4dIUkDmgTcC1sztsNW3X9EDNNOnk5ls3uJi_dtvQqNtbHZn0Cy0wtpONBIMCpJsG82Rfg3MglkkrCAz4AR" width="429" height="268" />
<a href="https://thevlm.org/">Virginia Living Museum</a>
This museum in Newport News has more than 250 species of animals found in Virginia. This includes birds, fish, mammals, and reptiles. It also serves as an animal sanctuary for orphaned, injured, and non-releasable animals. Both inside and outside displays are featured. The museum has a <a href="https://thevlm.org/events/planetarium-shows/">planetarium</a> too!
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9PjKOJyk8_bYRsEuhWfcSTbIm7Wyl2alP6bUnnQxeaIltpslyOMgGbjpSu8XA6lYpnd656z0IZzgyZ2KdG7NtwBzpUYiBTDyBA-CE24vEDGmzAbr_rBZLJ9Cl2EgMRl-SBZyLabq" width="428" height="321" />
<a href="https://www.historyisfun.org/">Jamestown Settlement & American Revolution Museum at Yorktown</a>
These two museums are located along the Colonial Parkway and within the Historic Triangle of Yorktown, Jamestown, and Williamsburg. You will discover everything that there is to know about the first permanent English settlement in North America. Immersive gallery exhibits vividly tell the story of the Jamestown settlers in 1607, as well as Native Americans that they encountered. Outdoors the kids will be enthralled by living history reenactments.
What a list! Your kids will certainly enjoy living in Hampton Roads, but this is just the beginning of all the fun things to see and do here. But first, you will have to get here. Contact one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> to get started on finding a great place to live, right here in Hampton Roads, Virginia! We can’t wait to meet you. 2022-04-29T08:53:00-07:002024-01-09T08:08:55-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12372Successful Habits From Military Leaders, For Military Leaders<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/tWm-SINkBfCs6DKC2ohVwpj892sKG8EryX_PY2-r6A-Qb8fPpJN8H1Yvr8riJl008CjQn8IFAAMn1W8g-9WCKBnOuRpQ1W0rAWnPj3HRjK-SGOf1yUI-uKp8PeIVhQSMS_zvh_WC" width="1000" />
Successful Habits From Military Leaders, For Military Leaders
Whether you are in the military or not, these habits are for everyone in leadership roles, or who aspire to leadership roles. They are the observations of an Army officer who had a 23-year career in the service. These are leadership attributes that he learned along the way, and can be applied for both civilian and military leadership at all levels.
Respect Others | Leaders who treat everyone like an adult human being tended to have a tram that worked the hardest for them. You really only get one chance to show your team that you value them. Gaining loyalty within your team is hard to regain once lost.
Look At Capabilities | Smart leaders listen to all ideas and advice and proceed with the best ideas, regardless of the source. Sometimes the smartest voice in the room comes from the most junior people. Leaders should realize that sometimes they may lose their edge on creative solutions and need an infusion of new ideas.
Praise In Public | Publicly reward your people any time that you can. Give credit where it is due. Conversely, if you must counsel someone regarding their deficiencies, do it away from others.
Acknowledge Those Behind The Scenes | Most leaders have hundreds of nameless people working behind the scenes to enable their daily activities. Remembering to recognize and thank those people often inspires them. This advice goes for your staff too, do not allow them to mistreat others. Your staff is a reflection of you!
<br />Provide A Clear Vision | No one can read your mind. If your vision changes, let your people know. And, if people on your team are not doing tasks to achieve the mission, let them know.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wGRVWcwNhJ1IOO5ZAOgXy_0LQomZ2opb8AeR4PI_RHSjtIekQ8AOUcXI6YH4sTDXq8XbFlLy5G7pTFVyuHjfReDdPibVIEYO6Jujn8tjvLRozFzjaGRyUOUZ2UgYbJ9CwtGrBix8" width="1000" />
Trust Your Team | Once you have provided a clear vision and strategy to your team, empower them to do their part to make it happen. Make sure that you back them up if they make an honest mistake trying to achieve your vision. When a member of the team really gets something right, highlight those successes for everyone else to emulate. If you cannot trust your team, then you may not be leading them well.
Be Honest | Especially with your superiors, never sugarcoat your reports about the progress of the mission. Also, do not hold on to bad information. Be respectful and honest.
Build Your Team Slowly | Do not be in a hurry to build your team for a new project, look for and hire the right people at the right time. If you have a lot of people sitting around at the beginning of a project trying to figure out what to do, it is a recipe for disaster. Gather a small self-starting, creative team at the beginning who will set up the entire project for success. You can add team members along the way.
Keep Calm | Remain calm, even in the face of chaos. If you fly off the handle when something does not go right, your people will stop being honest with you. You do not want that. Remember, everyone is watching you, all the time. Be your best self consistently, and be disciplined.
Let Incompetent People Go | We already advised that you keep your team members informed if they are falling short. Do they lack the proper training to complete the task? Can you provide the required training? Maybe they have reached their maximum potential. If you have identified that they can no longer be an asset to the team, let them go in the best way possible.
Increase Your Network | Always look for additions to your circle of contacts. Always look for others who can help you achieve your mission. Plus, if you have people in your sphere that do not know each other but should, introduce them!
Mentor & Coach | Your job as a great leader is to build the next generation of leaders. Take the time to mentor and teach both the simplest and most complex concepts daily.
Your Family | Teach your team to take care of their family and friends. Everyone needs support from home. Solid relationships are an asset.
Rest | There may be a point when you are physically or mentally tired. You will need to identify whether you must push through as you might ask your team to do, or rest. Take the advice of trusted friends and/or teammates when they tell you to take a break.
Dr. Martin Luther King’s idea of leadership: <br />Don’t worry about being safe, political, or popular nor make decisions out of cowardice, expediency, or vanity; but simply take actions your conscience tells you are right.
Most good leaders exhibit at least some of these traits. What can you learn from your current leader? These concepts will propel you through your military career and beyond. Bravo. Zulu.
2022-04-21T11:30:00-07:002022-04-27T11:51:05-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:7524PCSing to Naval Medical Center Portsmouth in Virginia? Search for Homes for Sale Around Your New Duty Station<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/k-NND9y0udqrNfr3Qs5QCaw2Nkch_sQhm7N33N_cOR5hDrSVxMLsY96L1mogy5NBj-c9NntoKywAWajdT7N6aUh3ZHsHl9uaTyaovEFojImMKmIxDqiwO7_hg7CdOM99tFboWtnV" width="1000" />
PCSing to Naval Medical Center Portsmouth in Virginia?
Search For Homes For Sale Around Your New Duty Station.
We invite you to preview homes for sale near <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/naval-medical-center/">Naval Medical Center Portsmouth</a>, or <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/regional-base-guide/">another nearby duty station</a> in Hampton Roads, Southeastern Virginia, and Northeastern North Carolina. PCSMoves.com makes it easy to search, filter, and sort your home searches by city, price point, home style, proximity to military base/installation, and more. <br /><br />Plus, with our <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/property-search/property-tracker/">Property Tracker,</a> you can save your favorites, and request notifications when homes fitting your criteria hit the market. You’ll be the first to know! We invite you to use this valuable research tool for home options near your new duty station prior to your PCS move.
The <a href="https://portsmouth.tricare.mil/">Naval Medical Center Portsmouth</a> is located in Portsmouth, Virginia. It sits on the Elizabeth River waterfront, and across the river from downtown Norfolk, Virginia. It is the Navy’s first and oldest continuously running hospital command. There is a staff of approximately 4,300 personnel there serving over 420,000 active duty service members, their families, and retirees in the Hampton Roads, Virginia region.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/I4fDVTZeKbICSoMnF-EQ1Ar0D8fZuhLIDYCZt-lLD-nkdJ3H-oGU4FUbMJxpsJdlzGVb1SIZQcpK0BdbBnmqMP9g7V0Gax-xyRrH0xSflVwIwxeekCpY1Pvx-rhiRPOOBQ1mqAlT" width="1000" />
Portsmouth is a historic town located on the banks of the Elizabeth River in coastal Virginia. It features historic homes, locally-owned restaurants, and quirky shops. The city has a shipbuilding history and it is currently home to numerous shipyard repair and maintenance facilities in the busy Hampton Roads harbor. This includes <a href="https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Home/Shipyards/Norfolk/">Norfolk Naval Shipyard</a>, another PCS location for military members.
PCSMoves.com looks forward to serving you! If you need assistance, just <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">contact one of our Military Relocation Specialists</a>. We will make sure that you get the information and assistance that you need. 2022-04-15T10:15:00-07:002023-05-10T05:51:58-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12271Home Buying Tips For Military Families<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/97JkBntmaWM2vgiDxQVSNKmFNFXZB8jl5XFR5KFJQcDh_m3E1P6kL4MI7WoR0-M8X_L8BxXo-Log0lFlcYMrNnsUTiiZhhF4Mp8RZqxt_lvXV-DamOQr-hImRLgqsnb9sdRGdSrc" width="1000" />
Home Buying Tips For Military Families
When you are in the military, frequent moves come with the territory. Moving often can certainly be challenging for families. It can also be exciting too! You may have already made the decision to buy a home, and begin to grow equity. These home buying tips are meant to address some things you may not have thought about, and to help you feel confident in your decision.
Consider Your Likelihood Of Selling In The Future?
Even if your plan is to retain your investment when you move to a new duty station, as you are home shopping, we suggest you consider points that could influence selling down the road. Is the home in a desirable school district? Does the home have any potential structural issues? Are the appliances modern? You will be looking at these items anyway, but they will become even more important if you decide to sell your home.
Familiarize Yourself With The Neighborhood
If you are looking at neighborhoods near your new base, you will likely have other military families nearby to relate to and network with. That can be a selling point in the future, especially for another military family moving in. Some communities even offer special resources like <a href="https://www.militaryonesource.mil/national-guard/joining-community-forces/about-joining-community-forces/">Joining Community Forces</a>, which works to strengthen the local military community. They work with local providers to consolidate resources to offer faster assistance to service members, veterans, and their families. Check out what is offered in your area.
<img alt="Image for VA Loans" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gyynBOIHM8q91zVw5AYZvpwrPo23d_Vku3lDlTsSUH8-wLpjAHu22QP1sddV7LqBadMpaTdF7Shy0Qu8G4uuprgJ4xfUjnDKPr08wfcZJKbj_vXAedJomGaDC3ennpEYABdTJ0xa" width="424" height="318" />
Access All Your Resources<br />There are special resources available to you as a service member interested in purchasing a home. Chief among these resources is the <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/">VA Home Loan</a> that can be extremely beneficial. (Check out our other articles delving into the VA Home Loan benefit.) Your REALTOR® can make recommendations regarding mortgage professionals with experience in VA loans. These experts can guide you through the process. Note that not all homes meet VA loan requirements, but it is worth your time to understand all the resources that are available to you.
Ask Friends And Colleagues
Talk with your fellow service members and military families who have been through the home buying process. Ask about their home purchase experiences. Ask what they did right, and what they wish they had done differently. These questions will provide you with great information and insights.
As you begin planning for your PCS move, we stand ready to assist you in your search for a home in your new duty station in Hampton Roads, Virginia, and North Carolina. We invite you to contact one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists </a>to get started today.
2022-04-07T09:17:00-07:002022-04-07T09:22:13-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12215Tips For Virtual Home Shopping. It Can Be Done!<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/AZUyWcLa-RPLNo_i_tNKwI40S0L-n9CCwIBHTuNanPHaSw4xmCg2H-1nhTicmgzqOgLVWaHdSVZu5JXhSGf66frZ--E9vb8AwywSctQNT0WwLn5-VUbqXV4paRVWFmHlYiklqu6A" width="1000" />
Tips For Virtual Home Shopping.
It Can Be Done!
As a military member and family, you may not be able to spend time shopping for a new home in your upcoming PCS installation area. Shopping for a home sight-unseen may seem daunting, but shopping for and purchasing a home virtually has skyrocketed in recent years. Sight-unseen home offers have increased nearly two-fold since 2018. So… you are not alone, and REALTORS® are more than ready to assist you virtually. Computers, tablets, and smart phones have allowed us to become accustomed to virtual home ‘touring’. You can also consider virtually shopping as a tool to narrow the list of properties that you want to see in person. But remember, today’s fast-moving real estate market requires offers made at lightning speed to be considered.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your virtual home shopping experience:
Know your must-haves and your nice-to-haves.
Make a list that includes all the things that the house must have to be ‘the one’. Then write down a second group of the nice-to-have features, things you would like but would be willing to forgo if necessary. This will help you (and your REALTOR®) to streamline your search. Keep the list at hand for your virtual home tours so you can remember what you are looking for. Your list and be revised and refined as you shop.
Know your budget before you start shopping.
Get your <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/mortgage-preapproval-4776405">loan pre-approval</a> so you know how much home you can afford. This will give you buying and negotiating power, and a comfort level while home shopping.
Choose your REALTOR® wisely.
Interview a few, read online reviews, and communicate with them candidly regarding your needs and goal to purchase a home virtually. Make sure that your communication styles and schedules are aligned for success.
Download <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/facetime/id1110145091">FaceTime</a>, <a href="https://zoom.us/">Zoom</a>, or <a href="https://www.skype.com/en/">Skype</a>.
These are your non-negotiable tools when purchasing a home remotely. If you are not able to tour the home in person, you will need a tour via live video. Pre-recorded tours are nice, but they do not allow you to be interactive. On a live tour, you can take your time, ask questions, revisit subjects of note, and request special attention.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/fW7oTbRoa8n6nZRClKYjYPBaAtFSUlCV99UlxhJx1vPAfd-woyTRVtUfH0JK9qB9Z-qQVf7QNHAs2wavMPH-POJ5U_uPa1jEv7X2staNnYfg1zV_kkSuJeIqVx6LBEf8TQjLZS9_" width="384" height="256" />
Take notes as you watch.
This is helpful especially if you are planning on virtually touring a number of homes. You can compare notes (and homes) later. You can carefully review your notes to get a good understanding of each home. Request a floorplan, if available, before your virtual tour, it will help orient you to the home’s layout and traffic patterns and you can make relevant notes on it.
Ask the right questions.
Think… What condition is the paint in? Will a six foot couch fit along that wall? Ask your REALTOR® about things that need to be felt or heard, etc. Ask about the home’s HVAC, water heater, closets, utility room, and storage. Don’t forget to ask to see the exterior of the home, how the property looks from the street, curb appeal etc. Ask how the home smells – mold, pet. Ask about neighborhood noise. You will need the REALTOR® to be your eyes, ears, and nose, so to speak. Make notes about anything you feel you missed during the tour so you can follow up with your REALTOR® or home inspector, or when you have an in-person tour before closing (if applicable).
Do your research.
Reading the listing details is not enough. Ask about flood risk. Use <a href="https://www.google.com/streetview/">Google’s street view</a> feature to ‘walk’ the neighborhood. Investigate property records, as they can give you a good idea of the property’s history and background.
Lastly, if you are hoping to complete the entire transaction remotely, you will need to select your mortgage lender, and title/closing company wisely too. Not all company’s offer e-closing and remote notary options. Shop around, ask your REALTOR® for some recommendations. <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Contact us</a> to connect with a REALTOR® that has military relocation experience and can offer a seamless virtual experience for you. 2022-03-31T12:53:00-07:002022-03-31T12:56:11-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:12163Finding Home Maintenance Help During A Deployment<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eWHF0T2PBAqrkyL1QssNSpXguCqnqOPYDJLvErbQJeWt26kKcTByw5K96zc7kCBNTc7094o33a211xhA6_wi87Z0l9stWsdg0PooqCkSCeqvDxIpAjTkjTXYXX7gylEkknIBge9N" width="1000" />
Finding Home Maintenance Help During A Deployment
It seems that no sooner than your spouse leaves on deployment, the reality sets in as something unexpected occurs. A flat tire? Washing machine overflows? Maybe something bigger? You learn that sometimes you need to reach out and ask for help. This is especially difficult for those of us who are ‘I’ll handle it myself’ types.
Fortunately, there are many groups and organizations that are willing to assist and support military members, spouses, and families. You will want to keep these contacts on hand for help during deployments.
Family Readiness Resources
The names may differ for each branch, but every installation has a Family Readiness Office. You can meet with the staff to find guidance on your available resources. Here are links for yours:
<a href="https://www.armymwr.com/programs-and-services/personal-assistance">Army Community Services</a>
<a href="http://www.mccsmcrd.com/marine-family-programs/">Marine And Family Programs</a>
<a href="https://www.cnic.navy.mil/ffr/family_readiness/fleet_and_family_support_program.html">Fleet And Family Program</a>
<a href="https://www.afpc.af.mil/Airman-and-Family/">Airman And Family Readiness</a>
The deployment resources on the <a href="https://www.militaryonesource.mil/leaders-service-providers/sp-l-deployment/">Military OneSource</a> website are recommended to answer questions that come along. You can also access everything from career guidance to confidential counseling.
The Air Force has a program called ‘<a href="https://afas.org/free-car-care-maintenance/">Car Care Because We Care</a>’ that offers a complimentary oil change. If your vehicle needs repair beyond the routine, you can coordinate the appointment in conjunction with your base’s ‘<a href="https://afas.org/community-programs/#:~:text=Give%20Parents%20a%20Break,receive%20a%20certificate%20to%20participate.">Give Parents A Break</a>’ program that offers a voucher for a FREE day of childcare at the base’s Child Development or Youth Center.
Lawn Care And Snow Removal
When snow comes, neighbors from all around the base tend to work together to scoop driveways and clear sidewalks… but what if you live off base? This is when Programs like ‘GreenCare For Troops’ and ‘SnowCare For Troops’ can help. Military members, depending on rank, can register at <a href="https://projectevergreen.org/greencare-for-troops/">Project EverGreen</a> to receive complimentary lawn care and snow removal.
National Assistance
Check out <a href="https://www.operationwearehere.com/FinancialAssistance.html">Operation We Are Here</a>. This supportive website lists groups and organizations around the country that support active-duty service members and veterans. The <a href="https://www.redcross.org/military-deployment-services.html">Red Cross</a> has deployment services and multiple departments for helping military families. You can call 877-272-7337 for immediate assistance. While they are not directly involved with service members’ home maintenance issues, they may work with local partners that do. And, <a href="https://operationhomefront.org/">Operation Homefront</a> impacts a bevy of organizations that support military members, spouses, and families. This organization is definitely one to call with an urgent need for help.
Remember, during a deployment, it is definitely ok to ask for help! Consider the resources listed here when you need guidance or support. They can assist you directly or point you in the right direction. There is no need to face deployment challenges alone, as there are many helping hands available.
2022-03-28T05:38:00-07:002022-03-28T05:41:18-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11979Some Of Our Favorite Storage And Organizing Hacks For Your Kitchen<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/WQpSjt8eZK09WoQXVQxKVL1WK-m7ra0pTZoJX2CdXS1Bu8BeZP6pJSM_JfJN6N2dHNLy26YMz3oaKVQ41Axl9j5aFk7Lc_6xB9kgGQjXRwHDpIaoatXaKrIC82uE_MguxM9NThnX" width="1000" />
Some Of Our Favorite Storage And Organizing Hacks For Your Kitchen
What are your #kitchengoals? Do you have a Pinterest board where you place your design and functionality favorites? Is your dream kitchen cool and clean Scandinavian, farmhouse chic, traditional, or something else entirely? Chances are it is probably tidy and orderly. Whether you are renting or living in base housing and can’t change much, or just looking to make your current kitchen more workable – here are our tips and hacks to help you move in that direction.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/GQSSoKbz5ekOBGSh7f49aCWdVqRYUoKB000fNQAJcRdQDB7qoCRMLGgCIRpdTrU6i5bWyWeZGALad8bqbkBUjPPRPQh3Na5UtpgkNOUV6I0u0ZxR87b1wBvydKhzDARZzsIhPFI7" width="382" height="333" />
Lazy Susan For Countertop | For those items that never seem to make it off the counter and end up taking up space. We are thinking of salt & pepper, sugar, olive oil, etc. Gather these items onto a lazy susan for a neat solution to your countertop clutter. If you want something more decorative, try a cake stand. Lazy susans are inexpensive and also work inside your cabinets for organization of your spices, etc.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3JuxFQay7C_mmEaLVygCZ4rIPs3QbwErydnddhDsxPMM0gCFQzT_ftjU6_KcMtOC4K_FM6DwjCCZmbkBI1mDYi5fxuxcybNE3L1NKiQZ_jOIyzgvObg5lL5XVQAlhjNAV7kgIgNB" width="385" height="374" />
Add Hooks Wherever You Can | Install hooks inside cabinets, under shelves, on your walls, anywhere that you can find a spot. This creates storage space almost anywhere… for items that may otherwise be taking up space in your cabinets and drawers.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ya-itCyXFQ2rqzuwTF3FEKQ8E6XS5IeBt3bYq7cKHWOYWYOp0NrjGI8uME_q817AnKU_Jj3G3BVqMotZNxDcWGNGw7ecyOzruOps51rek6MNMPK-Xam0aqxhYtRQDbn3efiRsACA" width="381" height="361" />
Unique Use For A Sponge Holder | If you keep your condiment packets from your Chinese, deli, and take-out orders, this is the solution for you! Use a sponge holder inside your refrigerator, or inside a cabinet door to store and organize them by type.
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/R_frj8fIzV06AZgKSw4xo0E8CVs8AfRMrNdQCvjyJ9ik4mBJyIaedO0TwAsX14NGY8kZSI9qpea-WLYZxhYGkuze5fDGMBc9U5prnzkctLsWAV_T5YV1R_JwLXtvb1O_SLBW-BIU" width="384" height="333" />
Use The Sides Of Cabinets | If you look around your kitchen for wasted space, the side of your cabinets may stand out. Use those cabinets with exposed sides by adding hooks, rails, or even shallow shelves. Hint: look above your cabinets as well!
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/lhQe9HDPipAWbedS5kM0s9ybvDVAWCaV_8Z6fLiySkkDxVRSmJ4qGf3t1s8Qr8K-rJi7aG7dpM4345HymiwkEbEQxi-0y40Ek7g72XJvE4hCY-qIi7K_6miHsDBX_M-HSWreK60W" width="384" height="323" />
Use Tension Rods Inside Cabinets | We always think about stacking things, but sometimes the better answer is vertical storage. Tension rods are inexpensive, and easy to install and remove if need be.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/K2B2sOgPyNdWLSuuDY46gDczWvszqzaoiYtaZJ_rjthATA-GCH37rpGT5IZrBUqiMNd8oOUQ1lWbkT94A6AfWhO9rWQmjE_12ZjMSkPrPyMiygsVm7EkR3ImUe2OpsTdAIokLzJb" width="382" height="360" />
Magnet Magic! | You can use magnets under cabinets and shelves, similar to hooks. This is a great idea to keep your go-to spices easily accessible. Use a magnetic knife rack.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/MLIL0dScFwUdywhIiFJ0LtBUDCWkKe_WelZSQDdBEKEo3YJ7HCEXBJE8ZpiYahkzFzxaXOrYEVYE06iuZkdEuc5NzrqE5DZacgNRL6EGBdQNEkrsQxjsS4_WKGUAicG2gu11zg_U" width="384" height="359" />
More Magnets! | A magnetic knife strip can also be used inside your cabinet to store your food processor attachments, lids, etc. near the appliances that they are used with. Brilliant!
When your kitchen is organized and you are feeling very accomplished, consider allowing yourself ONE junk drawer – a cheap drawer, even if it is only used as a temporary weigh station for items you have yet to organize!
Some of the best ideas for decluttering and organizing come from d<a href="https://newdayestatesales.com">ownsizing professsionals and estate sales companies</a>. They help people reduce and sell items every day and can provide clean out services for larger projects as well.<br /><br />We invite you to share some of your favorite kitchen organizational hacks here in the comments! And remember, as your PCS move approaches, our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> are here to assist you in ‘organizing’ a great move into your new home and/or a great experience selling your current home in Southeastern Virginia or Northeastern North Carolina. 2022-03-04T12:11:00-07:002023-03-27T06:31:32-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11926Our Top Tips for Home Buying (and Selling!) While In The Military<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MAbGY4v7qQYFITMqqrhV0jTeExbx2lsoP9ipLSoniQgnUKsJxDzEaWnOqPbxfYQVt2K_LGHpv0DJP5NwZxJdRd1Q4SVQqPKyG7N2ZRaSKR9QJSo3e2QhmlLaqTEgV2xwOynVebwQ" width="1000" />
Our Top Tips For Home Buying (And Selling) <br />While In The Military
As a member of the military, you know that there are challenges to purchasing a home. Now is the time to consider purchasing a home of your own. It is a great way to build wealth, and today’s rents are often times more than a home mortgage would be. Here are our top tips to get you started.
Research Your Local Market With a REALTOR® | Many areas that surround military installations are counting on it to sustain revenues and inventory. Today’s market is a bit trickier with historically low listing inventory. Also, if you decide to look a little further off-base, you will definitely want to do your research to fully understand the market. Ask about where homes hold their value and where they don’t quite keep up. These discussions with your REALTOR® can offer a good window into where you want to make a purchase. You can contact us today to get connected with an experienced <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialist</a>.
Orders! | Orders and moves are a fact of military life. Once you know that you will be moving to a new location, we suggest that you proactively get in touch with a REALTOR® regarding the possibility of selling your current home. They can advise you on any maintenance and/or repairs that will need to be completed before putting your home on the market. Their expertise will help you with timing too, allowing you to transition without too much out of pocket expenses. You may also consider keeping your house and hiring a local property management team to manage it as an investment property.
Familiarize Yourself With Your Home Loan Benefits | As an active duty military member or veteran, you have earned benefits which include <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/">VA Home Loan benefits</a>. You have served your country, and deserve to take advantage of these programs. Make sure that you understand your financing options, and how much home you can afford. Our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> can connect you with home financing that suits your needs. Make sure that you get <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/mortgage-preapproval-4776405">pre-approved</a> before your home search begins. You want to be ready to make an offer in today’s quick moving home market.
What’s On Your Moving Checklist? | If you know that you will be moving this year, and you know that you want to consider purchasing a home, start compiling a checklist of everything you will need to do leading up to the move. Remember that packing, cleaning, and financing should be addressed earlier than later. We can <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">connect you with a reputable lender</a>, so you can understand all of your home financing options. We are experienced with assisting military members in receiving optimum financing for their home buying journey.
We can assist you with your home search in your new location, and selling your current home. Our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> are here to help you now. 2022-02-28T08:59:00-07:002022-02-28T09:02:41-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11797Advanced-Level PCS Tips<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/dziE7AIV0ennvMZLWniFPe8M-A6cNra6FP0MNaxNQdUchY-yA8qjH9r7O9XtgRpNPSKAr2kLEFtg8aQ889ztbochjgA8T0mO2ya1cYqvPQ8JgMXMPMaF1d8T7EF_KTIh_YiPa4KT" width="1000" />
Advanced-level PCS Tips
Okay, so maybe it’s not your first rodeo, you’ve PCS’d a couple of times, and you may think that you know everything that you need to know. Well, the rule for PCS moves is to always expect the unexpected. And, as you know, the devil is in the details. We have created this list of potentially ‘forgotten’ chores – one just may make the difference during your next PCS move.
Begin studying a perimeter around your new town. The map will help you visualize it when you arrive. Note the major roadways, shopping areas, and some of your favorite stores and restaurants. You can connect the names with the actual landmarks on an early house hunting trip. Also communicate with your incoming real estate agents regarding their recommendations.
Reread your current and future leases (if applicable). It saves time and hassles if you reacquaint yourself with the details of move in and out procedures.
It’s never too early to begin researching your potential travel plans, especially if the PCS is scheduled for the popular summer relocation period. Hotel rooms and plane tickets will become scarce (and more costly) the closer you get to your departure date. Moving around holidays can also put a squeeze on availability and costs.
If you are house hunting in a particular school zone, be sure to check that there have not been any boundary changes. You can consult the school system’s website, and better yet, make a call to the school.
At your children’s current school(s), talk with the administration regarding paperwork needs. You may need to complete release forms for test and grade scores. Make sure they have your forwarding address.
When planning your trip, remember to include entertainment options for extended times in hotels and vehicles. Locate chargers, load up iPads with new games, and pack fun snacks.
DO NOT FORGET to change your Amazon address, so you can plan ahead and have necessary items delivered to your new home.
REMEMBER to cancel or update your subscription services – periodicals, food delivery, and one-a-month gift boxes.
REMEMBER to return all your library books! And, as you start the packing and purging process, remember to return all borrowed items from friends and family. They will be glad to have their stuff back!
Check our Pinterest and Facebook for tips and resources from other local military families. Those who have recently relocated will have the newest techniques for maintaining sanity during the process. Hint: <a href="https://www.militaryonesource.mil/moving-housing/moving/pcs-and-military-moves/">Move.mil</a> has an improved mobile site!
Make a quick list of any identification that will expire near your time of departure – military IDs, driver’s licenses, and passports. Then make a plan to get them renewed prior to your move.
Do not forget about your vehicle’s maintenance and documentation. Will you be registering in your new location or updating your address in the current system? This should avoid getting a ticket for outdated tags in your new location.
Organize and schedule your <a href="https://blog.militarybyowner.com/prepare-now-to-pcs-with-pets-this-summer">pets travel and care plans</a> early. Update vaccinations, prescriptions, and collect necessary paperwork from your veterinarian.
Inspect your family’s prescription medications well before your departure date. Plan to leave with as much medication as you are allowed. This will relieve some of the stress of immediately having to find a new doctor and pharmacy upon your arrival.
Transfer updated DEERS information.
If you are a tenant, do yourself a favor and gather recommendations for a cleaning crew to hire for the final clean.
Consider giving parting gifts to those folks who made your life great in your current location – friends, neighbors, babysitters, teachers, hair stylists, pet sitters, etc. Organize it now so you can enjoy your final visits.
REDEEM any local gift cards now.
Last but not least, consider planning one last gathering. You will regret not getting to see the people you meant to, one last time. And, you can use it as an opportunity to gift willing takers with items you can’t take with you – think frozen food, alcohol, cleaning supplies, etc.
<br />We hope that this list will be helpful in mitigating some of your PCS worries. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your upcoming PCS move, be sure to <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">contact one</a> of our Military Relocation Specialists. We are here to help!2022-02-10T14:49:00-07:002022-02-10T14:53:04-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11779Getting a VA Loan While Deployed - It Can Be Done!<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/s6rHoK22sqT3JGwZ3wDo7WMuCqsnYW9IIyyFPlSTqk9gta_g0CpuI51R1ctyjsQBHE73MlVORM9xIWzvlxIm2fW8GqA8MAnuYeG64LNm7X_Id_r23ocSQkXgnpp7mGgbjWB14ZHU" width="1000" />
Getting A VA Loan While Deployed - It CAN Be Done!
Even when far from home, it is possible for active-duty military abroad to get a mortgage, <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/">VA loan</a> or another type of loan, and to purchase a home, all thanks to remote capabilities. The <a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/va-home-loan">VA mortgage loan program</a> is one of the most valuable military benefits, allowing you to purchase a home or refinance an existing mortgage with attractive rates and terms. <br /><br />These include:
No credit minimum – VA loans have no minimum credit score requirement from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, allowing lenders some flexibility when qualifying a borrower.
No down payment – Mortgage lenders generally prefer borrowers to make a 20 percent down payment on a home. VA borrowers need nothing at all upfront.
No mortgage insurance – Many other low-down payment programs require mortgage insurance if the borrower puts down less than 20 percent. There are no mortgage insurance premiums for a VA loan, but there is an upfront <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/va-funding-fee/">funding fee</a> that is calculated on any down payment you may have paid, and how many times you have used the VA loan program.
There is a minimum service requirement for a VA loan: 90 consecutive days. Once you meet that minimum, you can apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which you will need to obtain the VA loan. If you are active duty, you will need a signed <a href="https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/assets/documents/2016-Oct/Example%20Statement%20of%20Service.pdf">statement of service</a> from your commander, adjutant or personnel officer. Once you have this statement of service, you can easily apply for your COE through the <a href="https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/about/feature?feature=cert-of-eligibility-home-loan">eBenefits portal</a>.
<br />A big reason that the military has provided this benefit is based on the fact that a large part of serving in the military involves the possibility of needing to move, often on short notice. Some of the advantages of purchasing a home include:
With low mortgage rates, monthly mortgage payments are often less than rent.
No lease agreements.
Housing stability for you and your family members.
When you are deployed and are in the market for a home, you will need the assistance of your spouse, or other family member(s), and a real estate agent. You may be able to have video walk-through tours taken of the homes that you are considering. You will need help managing the process of obtaining your mortgage. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Power Of Attorney | You can appoint someone to represent your interests in the purchase of a home with a <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/powerofattorney.asp">power of attorney (POA)</a>. To grant a POA, you will need the assistance from an attorney, legal clinic, or Judge Advocate General (JAG). Any of these professionals can recommend additional legal measures to take, depending on your circumstances. In many cases, military members grant a POA to their spouse so they can sign paperwork etc. on their behalf.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding if and who to appoint:
What powers will you allow the person to have? You can specify.
How long will the POA term last?
Can you revoke the POA at any time?
Can you name a backup or alternate?
Additionally, confirm with your closing or title agent what POA documentation they’ll need to close your mortgage.
Occupancy Requirements | A <a href="https://www.military.com/money/va-loans/8-keys-to-understanding-va-loan-occupancy-rules.html">condition of your VA home loan</a> is that you must live in the home, which can be concerning if you are deployed. You will have reasonable time to move in once your VA home loan closes (60 days in most cases). A spouse or dependent can live in the home to satisfy this requirement.
Verifying Military Status | It is important to have your <a href="https://www.servicememberscivilreliefact.com/about-us/military-status-verification/">military status verification</a> before you begin your home search or apply for your VA home loan. Under the <a href="https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers/servicemembers-civil-relief-act-scra">Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA)</a>, you have access to benefits such as foreclosure protection. For this reason, mortgage lenders need to verify your active-duty service and other service-related information. Your lender will have details regarding what you will need.
A VA home loan is your unique benefit that makes buying a home more affordable, and you can still get one while you (or a family member) are deployed, provided your service qualifies you. Contact us to connect with a <a href="https://www.military.com/money/va-loans/8-keys-to-understanding-va-loan-occupancy-rules.html">Military Relocation Specialist</a> that can guide you through the process, wherever you are!2022-01-26T07:32:00-07:002022-02-09T07:38:54-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11472Brighten Up Your Winter With These Hampton Roads Activities<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3gX8XDw2sSDeAVnP_yRUYXS6IA9BU7d2yN0ysTNSEvE9Pdqsf4CUsu3fBPZjfLI_r6MT5BYV-R-x1dFh0h4BYUJhUGaenuFVcfrswyRHqXa6-aDPNmM7b0bDGyj0Il6p-XomWH53" width="1000" />
Brighten Up Your Winter With These Hampton Roads Activities
Don’t let the grey skies get you down, get out and have some winter fun! There is a lot to do this time of year in our region, and our climate is relatively mild. We have compiled some unique activities for you this winter.
Chesapeake
Enjoy Stargazing | Thursday evenings at 8:00pm in January, at the <a href="https://www.virginia.org/listing/chesapeake-planetarium/5789/">Chesapeake Planetarium</a>, you can explore the clear winter night sky in the planetarium star theater. FREE, but reservations are necessary and may be made by calling the Chesapeake Public Schools between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM weekdays at 757-547-0153. Complete <a href="https://cpschools.com/planetarium/public-programs/">2022 program schedule here</a>.
Outer Banks, NC
Winter Beachcombing | Visiting North Carolina’s <a href="https://www.outerbanks.com/beaches.html">Outer Banks’ beaches</a> in the winter is great because it never gets too cold. Average temperatures range from 50-60 degrees. You may not get in the water, but the weather is perfect for walking along the shore and searching for seashells, seaglass, scallops, moon snails, and a variety of other shells. Hint: try Carova Beach at the northernmost end of paved NC Highway 12. It is quiet and you may spot a wild horse or two.
Newport News
Listen To Beautiful Music | <a href="https://www.kishibashi.com/">Kishi Bashi</a> meets The Virginia Symphony on March 3rd at 7:30pm at the Diamonstein Concert Hall at the <a href="https://www.fergusoncenter.org/">Ferguson Center For The Arts</a>. Violinist Kishi Bashi presents a multimedia presentation in honor of the 75th anniversary of the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. Kishi Bashi has local ties, having grown up in Norfolk. <a href="https://tickets.fergusoncenter.org/3402">Purchase tickets here. </a>
<a href="https://tickets.fergusoncenter.org/3402"></a>
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/JoEhq6Qrnq_DRSJ8O3eSI6N24V4yGGOYE2mHHhu7oGn7eGie4_ZQo7UMFi5kemv28G_pdVkuJuo0IVzjn5ZlVoc6rfkLOKsFCbZSEgR2w9uvftE5NXCqMNzKbL0jbcOo_7Sg4HSi" width="1000" />
Norfolk
Glass After Dark | Warm up with hot glass and live music that come together for memorable evenings at the Chrysler Museum of Art’s <a href="https://chrysler.org/glass/">Perry Glass Studio</a>. Each month, you can enjoy the glass studio team taking the molten material to exciting places, creating glass art to live music performed by local musicians. The first winter performance takes place on January 20th at 8:oopm. <a href="https://3243.blackbaudhosting.com/3243/Glass-After-Dark-20Jan2022">Tickets</a> are $12 for Museum members, and $15 for non-members.
Suffolk
Star Wars At The Center | The <a href="https://suffolkcenter.org/">Suffolk Center For Cultural Arts</a> is presenting <a href="http://www.visitsuffolkva.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=281">Star Wars</a> on the big screen on Friday, January 14th at 7:00pm. Admission is $2, and you can purchase tickets <a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35330/production/1095345?performanceId=10938913">here</a>. Additional showings include The Empire Strikes Back on February 11th, and Return of The Jedi on March 11th.
Virginia Beach
Whale Watching | Prime months for local whale watching are January and February because the whales migrate south from the polar regions this time of year. We like to think that we are their home away from home for the season. There are many options to see these magnificent creatures first hand, don’t forget your camera. The <a href="https://www.virginiaaquarium.com/things-to-do/boat-tours">Virginia Aquarium</a> and <a href="https://www.rudeetours.com/all-activities/">Rudee Tours</a> provide tours.
Nature Walks | Visit <a href="http://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/visitors/articles/first_landing_state_park.aspx">First Landing State Park</a>, a local’s favorite, to hike through seven distinct ecosystems. The park includes 19 miles of interpretive trails through protected habitats. Even your four-legged friend can join in, they’ll love the surroundings as much as you will. For the more adventurous, there is <a href="http://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/listings/back_bay_national_wildlife_refuge.aspx">Back Bay Wildlife Refuge</a>, one of the last remaining undeveloped areas along the East Coast. This park has five miles of trails making your way to <a href="https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/false-cape">False Cape State Park</a>. You can take part in <a href="https://fws.gov/refuge/Back_Bay/events/winterwaterfowlwalks.html">Winter Waterfowl Walks</a> guided by expert birders that are scheduled throughout the winter.
Williamsburg
Defy The Weather | Great Wolf Lodge is a ‘year-round family resort’. Your adventure here includes a massive, 84-degree indoor waterpark! It is remarkably fun to be floating down a lazy river while watching snow falling outside! There are additional kid-friendly activities throughout the lodge, as well as themed rooms, shopping, and family dining within the lodge.
Are you new to Southeastern Virginia, Northeastern North Carolina, or Hampton Roads? Will you be PCSing to the area this year? Bookmark our blog for useful local information, and contact one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> if you have any real estate related needs or questions. We are here to help. 2022-01-06T11:16:00-07:002022-01-06T11:33:01-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11426Do These 4 Things To Prepare For Purchasing A Home In 2022<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ty957uNG1Io5UyVufcHW-jj40uBZVIgtOSZLhzYS8JSFLkfDR-HyRlkU9WNU_pDUUK0MZIHa1Ai9f0pr1x_eYcDWiD4SF8zkB1HUzbWB3UIH2nMas2tvHXuaT57txxAIZjC2r277" width="1000" />
Do These 4 Things To Prepare <br />For Purchasing A Home In 2022!
If you want to purchase a home in 2022, you will need to be prepared and act quickly. The inventory of homes for sale is still at record lows, and many <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2021/08/26/first-time-homebuyers-face-stiff-competition-and-high-prices.html">buyers have lost out on homes</a> that they wanted to purchase before having their bid accepted. To position yourself ahead of the other buyers in the market, you will need to save as much as possible and do your research before placing an offer. Keep these four points in mind if you want to purchase a home this upcoming year.
ONE - Polish Your Credit | By <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/07/18/increasing-your-credit-score-can-save-you-big-on-your-mortgage.html">increasing your credit score</a>, you will be able to secure a lower interest rate on your home mortgage loan. Easy things to do include <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2021/07/21/most-important-factors-for-raising-your-credit-score.html">paying your bills on time</a> and keeping your <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/12/19/6-simple-ways-you-can-actually-improve-your-finances-in-1-year.html">credit utilization low</a>. If you are diligent, you can boost your score by at least a few points. Credit scores are one of the top things that lenders consider. The median score for 2020 buyers was 786 according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Conversely, if you have <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/select/how-to-build-credit-with-no-credit-history/">no credit,</a> you will need a cosigner with a decent score to procure a mortgage.
TWO - Lock-Down Payment Status | Most traditional mortgages <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/06/22/heres-how-much-money-youll-really-need-to-buy-your-first-home.html">require 20% down payment</a>. The good news is that your <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/">VA home loan benefit</a> requires no down payment. However, consider saving anyway because today’s market is seeing homes going for more than the listing price and appraisal value. You may need to contribute cash to win the bid. When receiving multiple offers, sellers look for potential buyers that will be able to complete the transaction with minimal hold ups.
THREE - Be Ready | In our current market, homes are selling very fast, most in less than 25 days in our local Hampton Roads, Virginia region. In the U.S., the average home <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/weekly-real-estate-monitor">was on the market for 17 days</a> throughout November, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. You should select a REALTOR®, have your mortgage pre-approval, do your research, and be ready to visit homes quickly once they hit the market. You should be prepared to extend a strong offer almost immediately.
FOUR - Resist Overpaying | You’re ready, everything is in place, but acting fast does not mean overpaying. Curb the desire to submit an offer on a home that you know is <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2021/06/03/how-to-not-overspend-when-buying-a-home.html">overpriced</a>. Compare home prices from the previous year in your area. If the same type of home is listed for significantly more, you are better off waiting for the next property to come on the market. Additionally, don’t be afraid to make an offer that you are comfortable with and see if the seller will negotiate with you. Your REALTOR® is always your best advisor.
If you are buying or selling a home in Hampton Roads, Southeastern Virginia, or Northeastern North Carolina, we can connect you with an experienced <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialist</a> that can assist you through the process.2021-12-30T11:49:00-07:002021-12-30T11:52:17-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11335Are You Considering Living 'Off Base' For Your Next PCS?<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ZI1Xq4eDcxZe31A1FLiymKX1CFM9DFvOqgO2RNQbanRE-1eVXoc8sUWFoaTkwFb5LSkRc81z208BtGuutT59_VqGVfFI2VO1Aw7EyF-UxhciQFXRFmOYFBqJcPMTBu84rlEvQB7I" width="1000" />
Are You Considering Living ‘Off Base’ For Your Next PCS?
Are you up for a PCS move in 2022? If so, you are faced with the question of where to live. Your <a href="https://themilitarywallet.com/basic-allowance-for-housing-bah/">Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)</a> can be applied to your rent, mortgage payments, and utility bills. Of course, you need to weigh the options and decide what is best for you and your family. In this article we are going to focus on the advantages to living ‘off base’. These options include renting and purchasing a home in one of the communities surrounding your duty station.
Disadvantages of Living on Base:
When living on base, your BAH is taken to cover rent and average electrical use. It is paid directly to property management, and you won’t see any of it, even if your service member gets promoted.
Many housing options on base are old, small, and <a href="http://seasonedspouse.com/what-you-wont-find-in-military-base-housing/">do not include many modern amenities</a>. You are assigned a home based on your service member’s rank and number of dependents. You can turn down a house, but only once or twice.
Many bases have long waiting lists for on base housing. Often waits are 6 months to over a year. <img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FyPf5Hrib5mRPB5hlryvLtB3lUF0yMEG2hgTDdTrytUoqj1s6fRlpc1i0ZRtEIRtgtXcLQw5gK5CHTMbp9ORCdD2M09igCk5bYjry0WHtQrBNuEpcg4WvvkSVCDrbhfgf1T8VIPL" width="1000" />
The military’s <a href="http://seasonedspouse.com/are-military-families-victims-energy-scam/">RECP energy billing program</a> uses ‘neighborhood averages’ to compute your electric bill. So, you may be losing more money than you think.
Base housing is a small community where everyone knows each other’s business. Having your neighbors know that your spouse is deployed may be reassuring to you, but the trade off is a definite lack of privacy.
Your service member lives and works in the same place and never really gets away from work. For some people, this makes it difficult to feel relaxed on base.
When living on base, you may feel detached from the larger community around you.
<br />Perks Of Living Off Base:
Living off base creates some distance from the military community. You can participate in activities on base AND also <a href="https://blog.militarybyowner.com/7-ways-milspouses-can-find-community-while-living-working-off-base">create relationships</a> with folks that do not share an affiliation with the military. It creates a more well-rounded lifestyle.
Potential to save money. Factor in utilities when creating your monthly housing budget, and you may come out ahead each month, spending less than you receive in BAH. <img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/UwnFsGUryqwbkKgDYz9WU5p5XFz2NRcYp50XJuZyMZQ0Sw7___L0y1F7nNNYZ1rFXfozXvyZDRQkdkFCX-u8ECIun_NIo2w5K-tqBRtWCvfaiDP_TFUswpQrllgZj9Jh4J86m3_P" width="1000" />
Potential to make money. If you <a href="https://militarybenefits.info/bah-va-loans/">purchase a home</a>, you can strive for a monthly mortgage payment less than your BAH, and build equity and personal wealth.
Off base housing affords a broader selection of neighborhoods, lifestyles, and housing types. Do you want condominium living, single-family with a large yard, a pool, a gourmet kitchen, downtown living, beach community…?
So, you have a lot to think about as you receive your PCS orders. If you have any questions, we invite you to contact one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a>. When you are moving to or from the Hampton Roads, Southeastern Virginia, or Northeastern North Carolina region, we can connect you with a real estate professional who has military move expertise.2021-12-16T11:30:00-07:002021-12-16T11:41:08-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11281PCSing to Langley Air Force Base?<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VqapWBVnBybgS82IGklotI3jEpjdgztiMRuvj18M5xZTYrz7rNoV2Ui0NIkJJa5l8_qF5dRMvf4kJDkgUFJyIzwe_ZhpeD33xWFIVohKLqL-sLcGyMNiCzdWzzPsJtVSklwnfmTt" width="1000" />
PCSing to Langley Air Force Base?
Search For Homes For Sale Around Your New Duty Station.
PCSMoves.com invites you to browse homes that are currently for sale in proximity to <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/langley-air-force-base/">Langley Air Force Base</a> in <a href="https://hampton.gov/">Hampton, Virginia</a>, or <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/regional-base-guide/">another new duty station</a> in Hampton Roads, Norfolk, Southeastern Virginia, and Northeastern North Carolina. At PCSMoves.com, we make it easy to sort your home search by military base/installation.
Langley Air Force Base, also known as <a href="https://www.jble.af.mil/">Joint Base Langley-Eustis</a> has a historic and distinguished history. It is one of the oldest facilities of the Air Force, established in 1916, prior to America’s entry into World War I. The base is home to the United States Air Force’s 633rd Air Base Wing (633 ABW), 1st Fighter Wing (1 FW), and the 480th Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing (480 ISRW). <a href="https://www.military.com/base-guide/fort-eustis">Fort Eustis</a> is located in <a href="https://www.nnva.gov/%5C">Newport News, Virginia</a>. Its primary mission has been Army transportation training, research and development, operations, and engineering.
If you are early in your PCS transition/move, you can research home prices and options in the area around your new duty station. If you need further assistance, we invite you to reach out to <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">one of our Military Relocation Specialists</a>, they will be happy to get you the information you need. We look forward to speaking with you !2021-12-09T10:23:00-07:002021-12-09T10:26:44-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11280Holiday Gifts That Are Perfect For Your Military Kids<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/N1x0_lDW6ABcGX3_82yqE0Cvs1KwSm798aKQc6EMYYLrMLLDNVSj4IYPEYHNbjWHpsbbiFGiDfVR5QkQ2MmeDix9tBDArJP811oQ07whdkL-3F1pgvxR2GZ8uLCCFDpqMFdSkZ1R" width="624" height="375" />
Holiday Gifts That Are Perfect For Your Military Kids
Holiday shopping is in full swing, so we thought we would offer up some ideas to inspire your shopping for the military kids on your list.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4RSNTF3WwbJMblPizR9FeOnWeaKq2NB5w58EJfQJ0AH35swgmmmRZipxLTJh9IkHtUrz5s8n1v7LqcUSZMlKhDicQQJHH_NIohZiT4EduclNP5rCsvmA9MrBDXX71DD7CS2DRHbi" width="334" height="272" /><br /><a href="https://tanoshikidscomputers.com/products/tanoshi-2-in-1-kids-computer?variant=11914258808874">Tanoshi 2-in-1 Computer</a> | This is a computer and a tablet that has all the basic computer functions. It certainly makes homeschooling and/or virtual learning easier for everyone. With the Family Link feature, you can manage your kid’s apps with parental controls from your phone!
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Yy7p0XH7N_1bHOrNqcpRAy24S-a5malIDFhoRcnQEqxs5y3anToaezym_yRVZewssxGePW5U1CWebEBZhkkYOg1U9kIEWEIY3LhM816kOxtm2-cOdVRmkKSnBuciAEWK6XfWaFSp" width="331" height="379" />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/birdyboutique?productGridPageIndex=2">Birdie Boutique</a> | This is a sister-owned children’s clothing and accessories shop. Even better, both sisters are Army veterans, one is an Army spouse, and the shop is a certified disabled veterans business. It is on Amazon, so your Prime FREE shipping should apply! Their signature car seat ponchos keep kids warm without compromising their safety. The camo style is perfect for military kids!
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5w_xIxjajWxSqAenUg_zYXgA7nN9unvaNJMs8I9Qd2ftcq6CFMJr66v1GqoW8D-2OXc7PhxaMDPn6ZMILx9nnscuqEg5XPDU5XoQeesBAhlfMBh5rv-7UlULxleCSABShSLS56Lh" width="332" height="316" />
<a href="https://gabbwireless.com/z2/">Gabb Wireless Z2</a> | Kids always ask for phones. If you are not ready for them to have a smartphone, but still want a way for them to reach you (and vice versa), this may be the answer. The Gabb Wireless Z2 is a safe, child-friendly phone that can call or text. It does not have social media and internet access. A win-win for younger kids.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_4KXSX5DX0gvFulWax9Gvx2Pm7-LgQUrUcdPrOE3MLwEm9iIC8YFvIlPVIKhkDqlRPin7enWtHbGuXpkiT8WYOAL_MQ9nRXohaVdAvOlCh54lBlmFGt0_1U_oOgz4tA3N25w0dCJ" width="332" height="311" />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/NatoCraft">NatoCraft Wooden Puzzles</a> | These wooden puzzles are a great choice. These have artistic flair, hidden meanings and purposes for those who engage. Kids think it is fun while it trains their observation skills, and hones their eye-brain-hand cooperation.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/QmiDGGXDR3ZR9kGgLi3MtrY67UW1xueR2s4wcmHfxp2Y4IDTrFvhBYr7OSiYS81hgJpJGQg-2dlim-ZP7RsoT8fUi9mZZL5KXcdl2Fa10j1cRsiXLVuB0NO00ZOzcSNpHNEeumRJ" width="329" height="244" />
<a href="https://www.budsies.com/">Budsies</a> | This is a unique gift for kids.Their ‘selfie’ dolls are great for kids who may be going through a deployment and are really missing their Mom or Dad. Their ‘budsies’ are stuffed dolls created from your child’s own drawing or painting. How cool is that?
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Xf-wJOij93zVlHNeq-WhWvYhLualu_PVkjbDS2LWFAjxWw3lhxGOOWVs7x_IZDxlp1GpVseUFOdUahPpcgBeS0ItuECOp3Z4AGnKgraT1jpdzpOYqLEeEkCn4Xsawdcb7a42DvW_" width="340" height="179" />
<a href="https://zzzbears.com/">ZZZBears</a> | For kids missing their Mom or Dad, these military-inspired ZZZ Bears can keep them company. The bears are available for each branch of the military, and will help kids sleep better while their Mom or Dad is deployed. The bear comes with a room protector door hanger and a ‘sleep tight oath’.
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/7gpEjdU-eydSgGvCFMDuOztrCu7JQC1J1gwniFlxxUH_Tp1icmATC64XA17n3RK9rR4R1PduaQVNjuDH7hGFCA-afb_ykO3LPwWOtuzdA-neSDe4Obwe-BBY6FatZdTztkbl_Dt9" width="332" height="253" />
<a href="https://www.kidvelope.com/">Kidvelope</a> | You can stay connected with your family far away with Kidvelope. Kids can interact with their loved one far away by completing a space mission together. These games and puzzles can be completed via online games, phone calls, and even snail mail. Stay connected when not together.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8l5sh329gB514sbnaGkYJpw9pYbamAaD0nCtimYbvCDQEWrV93v1zJMCHOqnH2Xn_ZfNkDrHi3RozjF9vnLJTXzjiQk6eb5uOK9aDKR5w0OU_433wHMxNI_6mRnl5-_D_NvthSp2" width="333" height="319" />
<a href="https://holaamigobox.com/">Hola Amigo Box</a> | A military spouse created this Spanish language subscription box that is a great way to bring a second language into your home and teach your child through play and fun activities.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/yXy7C5UApK22395H3ndblCOVvJ_zRQAT7huASKmUDGEses7ERNkUwk7bAw9LLFaZVcnPNqG_DTW5qSFlvIlOpcqvAC7MTdW1k2uJ95mdKo7ThfvVivWgJtmFsi3W2QDKMh-OjRyt" width="333" height="300" />
<a href="https://cuddleclones.com/">Cuddle Clones</a> | Cuddle Clones creates a replica of your family pet in stuffed animal form so your kids can have them wherever they go. The company also offers your pet’s image on other fun items.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Mh6ALfaXC_ROWvKEJsja3B7A3nOvSyeHbSB-jUxojQZZsn-bVZ_LryiF5vqemcNJVDf34nqefsZ0RdVZ2wYv5n262bVas4XBOT8ikd7t5lLeW63X-5xYZG3irY8GebJz4YqZThg3" width="319" height="284" />
<a href="https://www.calibeekids.com/">Cali Bee Kids</a> | This is a military spouse owned children’s clothing company that offers adorable handmade items. Take a look at the ‘wolf bonnet’ and the ‘Roxy Rabbit jacket’ for your little ones. So cute. The company offers girls, boys, and gender neutral selections. <br /><br /><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CGqsd4XSjKgQXEt-4x9Y6Q8xDs3uab_4JkuEc0_seUUGlWUt2u16aaRBhS8Lt0vxMd1V8GeIGss2iDDGO_Xm2zqlGCWLRMIzd5ToLEPxwmK6cVMguQ1GKSGMueBWzGZ0QfB0A92f" width="325" height="272" />
<a href="https://www.hugahero.com/">Daddy Dolls</a> | A classic gift for kids in military families. This is another doll designed to keep your little one company when their Mom or Dad is on deployment, or if they are just feeling lonely. Just provide an image of your service member and choose the backing fabric you want. There is even an option to add a voice box with a special recording. How cool is that?
Let us know in the comments below if you purchase any of these gifts, and how your kids like them. And, also if you have any other ideas for gifts perfect for kids in military families. Remember if you have an upcoming PCS move to or from Southeastern Virginia or Northeastern North Carolina, you can contact one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> for assistance. Happy Holidays!2021-11-29T10:15:00-07:002021-12-09T10:17:33-07:00Eric Blackwelltag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11123Ways to Say Thank You and Show Gratitude To Service Members<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GywbqpjsUetL0YIEzWlobv1hfIoB1P4dcFtBznz1H5d_qpCfetAGk-7gKyaWhCtMKekPz-qfhIq0eFGkfyiccFKWyei98izRmTUfN0zPwYGWGEA9jUAYcZUg092kDm2jxZW_E51b" width="1000" />
Ways to Say Thank You And <br />Show Gratitude To Service Members
During Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to thank those who are serving in the Armed Forces and their families for all the sacrifices they make. Here are some ways to show your gratitude and possibly make a difference in their lives.
Actually Say “Thank You” | You can simply say “thank you”, but it becomes more meaningful when you share your connection to the military - are you a veteran? is a family member in the service? etc. This personal touch shows that you understand the immense sacrifices that our military makes every day.
Offer Your Services | You can thank and support service members by offering your expertise or services in support of their post-military career search. Job searches can be challenging for both members leaving service and members of their families due to constant moves and deployments. You can offer career advice and assistance in translating their acquired military experience to civilian positions. The <a href="https://www.uso.org/programs/uso-pathfinder-transition-program">USO Pathfinder® Transition Program</a> equips service members and military spouses with the tools they need to tackle the civilian job market. The program is always looking for guest lecturers.
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/WStk9O7FSMnfxPH5ajnpcRoYPIB9z5vsAG0SO8NaBpr3pUy72UCdLft8qgry4NZwA1FOz1k8msHZP7CWxfgUVtkNgbjm9BnMOLJyNdexWD-kiVhQ-74fdH3vk4-JzIG65QNUiZYa" width="1000" />
Send A Care Package | Care packages give service members a small reminder of home, just when they may need it the most. Oftentimes the process of being matched with a service member can be complicated. <a href="https://www.uso.org/stories/2915-how-to-send-care-packages-to-troops-with-the-uso">One way you can send a care package</a> to deployed soldiers is by <a href="https://secure.uso.org/1911_AMT/?sc=WEBDONATE&show_amount=true">making a monetary donation to the USO</a> to support the organization’s operations, which include sending care packages. The <a href="https://www.uso.org/">USO</a> also has the <a href="https://usowishbook.uso.org/">USO Wishbook</a> program where you can select a symbolic gift (like a care package) to be sent to service members. The USO delivers more than 170,000 care packages annually to troops all around the globe.
Volunteer Your Time | You can volunteer your time with many <a href="https://www.veteransadvantage.com/giving-back/trusted-military-organizations-and-nonprofits">military support organizations</a> to show your support for our troops. You can really show your gratitude in a meaningful way when helping firsthand. It is rewarding to connect directly with the military community and thank them for their sacrifices.
Donate To The USO | The USO’s brick-and-mortar centers around the world serve as a home away from home for deployed service members, as well as a place of respite for the larger military community. The organization has a long track record of supporting the troops since World War II. A <a href="https://secure.uso.org/1911_AMT/?sc=WEBDONATE&show_amount=true">donation to the USO</a> supports programs to keep deployed troops connected to their loved ones back home, provide resources for service members, and boost morale through entertainment and supportive events.
PCSMoves.com wants to take this time to express our appreciation and thanks to all who serve, with our <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">Military Relocation</a> services that will assist with home buying and selling during your next PCS move. Happy Thanksgiving!2021-11-17T12:58:00-07:002021-11-17T13:52:34-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:11084Are You PCSing to Norfolk Naval Shipyard?<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Hqd6MDB_Oq7dfxbvzUnXOr5XdJKpUDZAYJEqiX_U0mQ7Ej9tDp-OHft2yL5Ercekkf4F0lKCKWjnmizUzuQVUg2DuxPNqbADO9_lORX5hAl8jmom5_IMHH7yicPGplsYtF0HrmAk" width="1000" />
Are You PCSing to Norfolk Naval Shipyard?
Search For Homes For Sale Around Your New Duty Station.
PCSMoves.com invites you to browse homes that are currently for sale in proximity to <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/norfolk-naval-shipyard/">Norfolk Naval Shipyard</a>, or <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/regional-base-guide/">another new duty station</a> in Hampton Roads, Norfolk, Southeastern Virginia, and Northeastern North Carolina. PCSMoves.com makes it super easy for you to sort your home searches by military base/installation.
Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) is located in Portsmouth, Virginia. It is the oldest industrial facility in the U.S. Navy, and specializes in overhaul, repair, and modernization of ships and submarines. It has an <a href="http://www.militarybases.us/navy/norfolk-naval-shipyard/">illustrious and interesting history</a>. NNSY can dry-dock any ship in the U.S. fleet! This facility includes fabrication, manufacturing, and engineering work centers along with state-of-the-art computer-aided design and automated information system services. Norfolk Naval Shipyard has earned numerous awards and has a reputation as our nation’s number one shipyard.
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/portsmouth-va/">Portsmouth, Virginia</a> offers a relaxed, waterfront lifestyle. The city is in close proximity to the cities of Chesapeake and Suffolk, and it is a short ferry ride across the Elizabeth River to downtown Norfolk. Portsmouth was founded in 1750, and its historic district features boutique shopping, unique restaurants, and timeless homes.
Early in your transition/move, you can use this search tool for research on home prices and options in the area around your new duty station. If you need assistance, <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">one of our Military Relocation Specialists</a> will be happy to get you the information you need. We look forward to hearing from you. 2021-11-12T08:55:00-07:002021-11-12T09:00:55-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10957Holiday Mailing Deadlines For Military<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/2F8hDll4HIzphQTCKVPciGq0yhnlvVgj2Qy3v0ezdDofzpivuoVbFr2BNDnoHY5B1NB3lFb0oBmvh15yoIcjI7gMnKCkbCUhkiSjkilpBJYRYAlW5nNG0j_z-KoQKxv6fQwqLfoS" width="1000" />
Holiday Mailing Deadlines For Military
Military members and their families rely on mailing packages during deployments and other separations. Ensuring that your holiday packages arrive by December 25th is important. The <a href="https://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2021/1005-usps-announces-shipping-dates-for-holiday-military-mail.htm">U.S. Postal Service recommends</a> the following deadlines to make sure your packages make their destinations before Christmas.
From the U.S. To APO AE addresses:Nov. 6, 2021 - Retail Ground Mail
Dec. 11, 2021 - 1st Class / Priority Mail
Dec. 18, 2021 - Priority Mail Express Mail
To the U.S. From APO AE Addresses:Nov. 27, 2021 - Retail Ground Mail
Dec. 11, 2021 - 1st Class / Priority Mail
Dec. 18, 2021 - Priority Mail Express Mail
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/jYQpkmUckkoI8_VpwubdmwmT6PcKWzxEnBORGpLFyvtXkfSkZQTbsKDFMHO9c43m6JY7xchHmQnZWpseuzVrlQhc19aNCooC3R_YC3T3w9vfx3ZSM91B0fNoAq0HMbx0eCUS71TD" width="1000" />
The <a href="https://home.army.mil/imcom-europe/index.php">IMCOM-Europe</a> Postal Operations Branch recommends that you come prepared to expedite and make the most of your postal experience by completing your online customs declarations prior to visiting the office. If you are new to the military package shipping game, here are <a href="https://www.militaryonesource.mil/military-life-cycle/friends-extended-family/sending-a-military-care-package/">some basic rules</a> of the road.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/8_bZsbr6XmLHBcZXYN16Uc3lhaZ7AlFTlpqCUaK9__k0nEO_xEOww9AAYroM_OyCrh1QGPFifYWMWgAJGFzLveDcU5EnWyKqPd-Tyh2ogjQfIOPxJBe9rfOCFg1MupbePdVpl1B1" width="1000" />
You can take advantage of the U.S. Postal Service’s ‘<a href="https://reg.usps.com/entreg/LoginAction_input?app=GSS&appURL=https://cns.usps.com/">Click-N-Ship</a>’ program, and the “<a href="https://about.usps.com/postal-bulletin/2009/pb22265/html/info1_004.htm">If It Fits, It Ships</a>’ flat-rate mailing boxes. You can have your labels printed and affixed prior to coming to the postal office. Most offices have a drop off point so you can avoid waiting in line. For your holiday cards, the USPS has <a href="https://store.usps.com/store/results/stamps/holiday/_/N-9y93lvZ1mzlvsg">special holiday stamps</a> to increase the festive factor! Other options include <a href="http://stamps.com">Stamps.com</a>, <a href="http://pirateship.com">Pirateship.com</a>. These sites are USPS Official Partners and offer discounts on shipping expenses on their qualifying services.
<a href="https://www.herocarepackages.com/homefront/57-gift-ideas-for-holiday-military-care-packages/">Are you stuck for holiday gift ideas <br />for your military family member overseas? <br />Try these!</a>
Happy holiday gifting and shipping to you! Before you know it, your loved one will be home! If your post-deployment plans include a PCS move to or from the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">contact us</a> for assistance. 2021-10-28T06:04:00-07:002021-10-28T06:08:42-07:00Eric Blackwelltag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10948Veteran's Day 2021 Style<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bJQhB1tGOoL-0OiKbQ3s6urBaNffwibgNvGvWWg5Pqkwb8vPF8zZSY7jZyI3BEasqJOVSMNvvSUgxkyjBAXNQAgX0EClQf5Jp_Y2xrXmScx1g8cSew2LwU96Pbewk6rphQqlSkDt" width="1000" />
Veterans Day 2021 Style
On Veterans Day we honor the men and women who have served our country in our military. We also recognize the contributions of military veterans as our nation’s leaders, entrepreneurs, and scientists. Veterans are some of our most active volunteers that work to improve our communities. So on November 11th each year, we pause to acknowledge their contributions and service. Here are some observances, discounts, and facts regarding Veterans Day.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/X8tMzLlL33nOyt6Z4fPH_WFTA7xGtK1u8eqORdYgNCzsWkgeCes5CqKI-7WU-mwoUb-i7Ozp2bkSTbrpVBkgMy_AlEtbf3fhjcknNeokFXjbY1sbhMZSgxec-08KgCzMZvladN4D" width="1000" />
Observances Around The Country
<a href="https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Search?q=veterand%20day">National Veterans Day Ceremony</a> | November 11 | 11AM | Arlington, VA<br />For the first time in nearly 100 years, the public has been authorized to <a href="https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Media/News/Post/11412/For-First-Time-in-Nearly-100-Years-Public-Authorized-to-Approach-Tomb-of-the-Unknown-Soldier-Plaza">walk on the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier Plaza</a> and lay flowers in front of the tomb this year as part of the Unknown Soldier Centennial Commemoration. See this year’s official poster above, and <a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/gallery.asp">download it here</a>.
<a href="https://vawarmemorial.org/events/2021veteransday/">The Commonwealth of Virginia’s Veterans Day Ceremony</a> | November 11 | 11AM to 12PM
This ceremony will be held in Richmond, Virginia at the Virginia War Memorial. 2021 will be the 65th annual ceremony to honor those who have served and who are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. The ceremony will also be livestreamed on their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaWarMemorial">Facebook page</a>.
<a href="https://visitemporia.com/veterans-day/">All Veterans Tribute Week</a> | November 1-11 | Emporia, KS
Emporia is the founding city of Veterans Day and hosts a multi-day event to pay tribute.
<a href="https://parade.uwvc.org/">New York City Veterans Day Parade</a> | November 11 | 12-3PM | New York, NY
The parade will run up Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, between 25th and 40th Streets. This year’s Grand Marshall is <a href="https://parade.uwvc.org/introducing-our-2021-grand-marshal/">Kevin Carrick</a>, an Air Force veteran and local hero.
Your Local National Cemetery | The <a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/">National Cemetery Administration</a> can assist you in <a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/listcem.asp">locating a cemetery</a> near you.
<a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/">National Museum of The Pacific War</a> | This Texas museum is hosting a <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/event/veterans-day-2021-virtual-program">virtual event</a> this year.
<a href="https://usveteransmagazine.com/2021/10/veterans-day-freebies-and-discounts-for-2021/">FREE Meals & Discounts For Veterans</a>
Veterans Day Facts <br /><br />Our modern Veterans Day evolved from Armistice Day,originally proclaimed in 1919. The date recognizes the end of World War I on November 11th at 11:00AM (11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month). In 1947, Raymond Weeks, a World War II veteran, organized a “National Veterans Day” parade in Birmingham, Alabama to recognize veterans of all wars. This may have helped to influence the U.S. Congress to change Armistice Day to Veterans Day, as they did in 1954. The residents of Emporia, Kansas also lay claim to being the originators of the modern Veterans Day. The town organized and celebrated Veterans Day in 1953, and their Congressman proposed a bill that year to rename the National observance. Here is an infographic including Veterans Day facts.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/4C9KNgdMWrscOSMFhJ7rFjTexnMYQYfGCREcf-4f_9Zq98l8FGx8h0RxJ7HCIT_Oj8j0sLbc5n9jCmawyYPh8GqO2Y0kVw7E72GGLh_ZTDvYOU5BXbyKtBiaH43LGccrCTmfioPT" width="1000" />
And finally…<br />
<a href="https://www.onlineatanthem.com/visitors/veterans_memorial/index.php">The Anthem Veterans Memorial</a> | This is a truly unique place to visit on Veterans Day. The memorial (pictured at the beginning of this blog) has five pillars that represent the five branches of the United States military. Each pillar has a seal of one of the branches of the military - Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. At precisely 11:11AM on Veterans Day, the sun’s rays pass through the five pillars’ elliptical openings to illuminate a glass medallion of the Great Seal of The United States.
We wish you a wonderful Veterans Day this year. Celebrate your service, and the service of your family, friends, and neighbors. We owe everyone who served a debt of gratitude. Thank you for your service.
2021-10-27T13:33:00-07:002021-10-27T13:37:07-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10880Search For Homes For Sale Around Your New Duty Station<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/APkCnqqCHZH7eRBGcO3JUitljrGUHoJMExZrUKNOCaCJspB5YFPgUpj5nUuSIkQIv_EFGd-2gWtDAxmBqa8HPgyqxzT86oqeK0fEMfdhbjane5LQ8qtOB6Yx2na-S-Wc6UiX_6x3=s1600" width="1000" />
Search For Homes For Sale Around Your New Duty Station
PCSMoves.com invites you to <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/regional-base-guide/">browse homes</a> that are currently for sale in proximity to your new duty station in Hampton Roads, Norfolk, Southeastern Virginia, and Northeastern North Carolina.
YES! You can sort your home search by military base/installation. We offer quick searches where you can preview homes for sale RIGHT NOW near the base that you will be stationed at. We currently offer searches for these bases:
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/dod-joint-complex/">DoD Joint Complex - Suffolk</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/dod-joint-complex/"></a><a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/fort-eustis/">Fort Eustis</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/fort-eustis/"></a><a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/fort-story/">Fort Story</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/fort-story/"></a><a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/langley-air-force-base/">Langley Air Force Base</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nab-little-creek/">NAB Little Creek</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nas-oceana/">NAS Oceana</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/naval-medical-center/">Naval Medical Center - Portsmouth</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/naval-station-norfolk/">Naval Station Norfolk</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/norfolk-naval-shipyard/">Norfolk Naval Shipyard</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nsa-hampton-roads/">NSA Hampton Roads</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/nsa-northwest-annex/">NSA Northwest Annex</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/uscg-sector-hampton-roads/">USCG Sector Hampton Roads - Portsmouth</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/uscg-finance-center/">USCG Finance Center - Chesapeake</a>
<a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/bases/uscg-base-elizabeth-city/">USCG Base Elizabeth City</a>
If you are in the preliminary stages of your transition/move, you can use this as research for home prices and options in the area around your new duty station.
If you need assistance, just <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">contact one of our Military Relocation Specialists</a> and they will be happy to get you the information you need. We look forward to assisting you during your PCS move. 2021-10-19T10:51:00-07:002021-10-19T10:54:06-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10879Things To Do While Stationed In Hampton Roads, Virginia<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7ASfxeJYpPK4uA08MCNaxLjxKBrMw_EoGXewSabT0QhppjjNOiTCPt78e7jDuPd0LA86_71HMx7QniQXLI7nCtIu2f30KGzxK0wtjSW-fMttiVI9bfnN1XnU4liIhPiIRUpKactE=s1600" width="1000" />
Things To Do While Stationed in Hampton Roads, Virginia
Are you PCSing to Hampton Roads, southeastern Virginia, or northeastern North Carolina? Have you recently moved here? Well… the area has much to offer. We love living here, and are going to share some great things to see and do here. First and foremost, each branch of the armed forces is represented here, which gives us a real sense of being a military community. Secondly, if you like water, we have you covered. This area is surrounded by water, perfect for beaching, fishing, and boating. Our climate is mild, and we enjoy four seasons.
Beach Days | If you love the beach, you’ll love Hampton Roads. Most notably, the <a href="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/explore/beaches-districts/oceanfront/">Virginia Beach oceanfront</a> offers 12 miles of white sand - from Fort Story to Sandbridge. The boardwalk also features entertainment, music, festivals, and fireworks throughout the summer. You also have the option to enjoy quieter (less travelled) beaches. Our beach recommendations are listed here.
Gloucester Point:
<a href="http://www.gloucesterva.info/ParksandRecreation/Parks/GloucesterPointBeachPark/tabid/1035/Default.aspx">Gloucester Point Beach Park</a>
Hampton:
<a href="http://www.hampton.gov/facilities/Facility/Details/46">Buckroe Beach</a>
<a href="http://www.virginia.org/Listings/OutdoorsAndSports/GrandviewNaturePreserve/">Grandview Nature Preserve</a>
<a href="http://www.hampton.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Outlook-Beach-76">Outlook Beach at Fort Monroe</a>
Newport News:
<a href="http://www.nnparks.com/parks_huntington.php">Huntington Park Beach</a>
Norfolk:
<a href="http://www.norfolk.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/34">The Ocean View Beaches</a>
Virginia Beach:
<a href="http://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/visitors/beaches/resort-area/">Oceanfront/Boardwalk</a>
<a href="http://croatanbeach.org/">Croatan Beach</a>
<a href="http://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/visitors/beaches/sandbridge/">Sandbridge Public Beach</a>
<a href="http://www.vbgov.com/government/departments/parks-recreation/parks-trails/city-parks/Pages/little-island-park.aspx">Little Island Park</a>
<a href="http://www.fws.gov/refuge/back_bay/">Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge</a>
<a href="http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/first-landing.shtml#general_information">First Landing State Park</a>
Williamsburg/Jamestown
<a href="http://www.jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation/parks/jamestown-beach.html">Jamestown Beach Park</a>
Yorktown:
<a href="http://www.best-beaches.com/us/virginia/virginia-beaches/yorktown-beach">Yorktown Beach</a>
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/0f4ckUNwmiWDdjhceDMqvHBYEi2GdAIkK3FIJXeo49lNG7reT8_OezMdwmlO17vVvl3Ad2UYbvZdZCpi64O5GJdnVXTe4bH0ahyS-d6kljF8bL3KKmv7tm3lQPaqI-IkF5Nxo8eO=s1600" width="1000" />
Wealth of History | Our part of the world is where America began, so we are history rich to say the least. Our Historic Triangle includes <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamestown,_Virginia">Jamestown</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonial_Williamsburg">Colonial Williamsburg</a>, and<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yorktown,_Virginia"> Yorktown</a> - all heavy hitters in United States history. These locations are in very close proximity to <a href="https://www.jble.af.mil/">Joint Base Langley-Eustis</a>, and a short drive from our other Hampton Roads installations. Check out the <a href="http://arts.gov/national/blue-star-museums">Blue Star Museum Initiative</a> for great military discounts or free admission to these historic sites. Local history sites include:
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/89/colonial-williamsburg/">Colonial Williamsburg</a>
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Historic_Triangle">Historic Triangle</a>
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/114/jamestown-settlement/">Jamestown Settlement</a>
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/113/yorktown-victory-center/">Yorktown Victory Center</a>
<a href="http://www.warmuseum.org/">Virginia War Museum</a>
<a href="http://preservationvirginia.org/visit/historic-properties/cape-henry-lighthouse">Cape Henry Lighthouse-Fort Story</a>
<a href="http://www.endview.org/">Endview Plantation</a>
<a href="http://www.leehall.org/">Lee Hall Mansion</a>
Additional nearby day trip options:
<a href="http://www.jamesriverplantations.org/">James River Plantations</a>
<a href="http://www.monticello.org/">Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello</a>
<a href="http://www.michietavern.com/">Michie Tavern-Charlottesville</a>
<a href="http://www.montpelier.org/">James Madison - Montpelier</a>
<a href="http://www.mountvernon.org/">George Washington's Mount Vernon</a>
<a href="http://www.frommers.com/destinations/virginia/627424#sthash.oT30NNRL.dpbs">Civil War Battle Sites</a>
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/349/segway-of-richmond/">Segway of Richmond</a>- offers several historic Richmond Tours
Mountains | A great thing about our region is that it is a short drive from the ocean and historic sites, to the mountains. When you are stationed here, you must see the picturesque <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Ridge_Mountains">Blue Ridge Mountains</a>. The mountain areas feature loads of outdoor activities including skiing, hiking, golf, wineries and breweries, and apple picking. Here are some places to start:
<a href="http://visitskylinedrive.org/Home.aspx">Shenandoah National Park-Skyline Drive</a>
<a href="http://www.naturalbridgeva.com/recreation/the-natural-bridge/">Natural Bridge</a> is included in several “Natural Wonders of the World” lists.
<a href="http://wintergreenresort.com/">Wintergreen Resort</a>, <a href="http://www.snowshoemtn.com/">SnowShoe Mountain</a>, and <a href="http://www.massresort.com/v.php?pg=2">Massanutten</a> have skiing, golfing, and hiking. Plus, great military discounts.
<a href="http://www.virginia.org/Listings/OutdoorsAndSports/CrabtreeFallsTrail/">Crabtree Falls Trail</a>-one of the most beautiful hikes in Virginia
Busch Gardens & Water Country USA | Busch Gardens is a kid-friendly amusement park that consistently gets voted “most beautiful”. The park along with Water Country USA both offer military discounts. Information on their ‘Waves of Honor’ and military discounts are linked below.
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/110/busch-gardens/">Busch Gardens Williamsburg</a>
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/111/water-country-usa/">Water Country USA</a>
Unique Family Entertainment | The list below includes some of our favorite family entertainment opportunities.
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/211/virginia-zoo/">Virginia Zoo</a>
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/270/virginia-air-and-space-center/">Virginia Air & Space Center</a>
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/141/virginia-living-museum/">Virginia Living Museum</a>
<a href="http://www.childrensmuseumva.com/">Virginia Children's Museum</a>
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/tourism/336/the-mariners-museum-and-park/">Mariners' Museum and Park</a>
<a href="http://norfolkbotanicalgarden.org/">Norfolk Botanical Gardens</a>
<a href="http://www.nauticus.org/visitor-info/index">Nauticus/USS Wisconsin</a>
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/recreation-and-entertainment/468/norfolk-admirals-hockey/">Norfolk Admirals Hockey</a>
<a href="http://www.milb.com/index.jsp?sid=t568">Norfolk Tides Baseball-Minor League</a>
<a href="http://preservationvirginia.org/visit/historic-properties/cape-henry-lighthouse">Climb the Cape Henry Lighthouse</a>
<a href="https://virginiabeach.iflyworld.com/">iFly Indoor Skydiving</a>
<a href="http://www.chrysler.org/">Chrysler Museum of Art</a>
<a href="https://www.oceanbreezewaterpark.com/">Ocean Breeze Waterpark</a>
<a href="https://www.militarybridge.com/business/travel/449/great-wolf-lodge/">Great Wolf Lodge</a>
<a href="http://www.militaryaviationmuseum.org/">Military Aviation Museum</a>
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/b25bJe0ReHSJJt1tnTdhcPS-Y_z74U3q0_3KS5YwgmiH9ICJSdRsYA1fall6zdUYh8WWDg4yYcb7VJu8OP_Ng_a7lJ1aJHUT5vJ_i_oJYMFgXMySu5b5YGEqM51nJi7iK3M2zdvo=s1600" width="1000" />
Fun On The Water | Our region has fantastic day trip fishing excursions, whale and dolphin watching trips, pier fishing, and more. Some of our favorite water activities are listed below.
<a href="https://www.virginiaaquarium.com/things-to-do/boat-tours">Virginia Aquarium boat tours</a> for whale and dolphin watching in season.
<a href="http://www.tidewater-virginia.net/directory/sports-recreation/fishing/charter-boats/">Fishing!</a> All about our local charters, fishing piers, and local fish species.
<a href="http://www.misshamptoncruises.com/">Miss Hampton II</a> offers the only tour of the famous Hampton Roads Harbor, site of the Battle of the Monitor and Merrimac.
<a href="http://rudeetours.com/">Rudee Tours</a>- Dolphin tours, Whale tours, and Sunset trips in Virginia Beach
<a href="http://www.sailyorktown.com/">Yorktown Schooners Alliance and Serenity</a> sets sail on the historic waters of off Yorktown.
Check with your <a href="http://www.discovermwr.com/thingstodo/equipmentrental.html">local MWR</a> as many of the Hampton Roads military bases offer kayak, paddle boarding, and boat rentals.
We hope that this list gives you some ideas for things to see and do while stationed in the Hampton Roads area. Let us know in the comments where you went and what you thought of it. And, if you are moving to the area, <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">contact us</a> for information about our local real estate market.2021-10-19T10:38:00-07:002021-10-19T10:47:16-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10807How To Enjoy Your Backyard Well Into Fall10|7
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Y9jJeVzOce_eh8LIdT-MeZBe9IrdHV0WK9gTe0_rWTIOkB3ltHhetWCzUPu3PX5vIcpp6TwVApz6sbggq-OZLRISmWwI1yfzAMlUZvC6pIUolAkMUyZT-QhSWSYWii5N8j0rbW3n=s0" width="1000" />
How To Enjoy Your Backyard Well Into The Fall
Autumn is the time for cool evenings, jumping in piles of leaves, flannel, fire pits, and roasted marshmallows. Is your backyard ready to fully embrace the brisk and invigorating evenings? We have compiled a few ideas to help you get your backyard ‘Autumn Ready’!
Bring On The Heat | If you love to entertain outdoors just add a fire pit, barbeque, outdoor Kitchen, or heater! Fire pits are great places to have friendly conversions and gather the kids to roast marshmallows for s’mores. You can <a href="https://www.bobvila.com/articles/build-a-fire-pit/">build</a> or <a href="https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/10-fire-pits-we-love-2457">purchase</a> a fire pit very easily. A patio heater makes sitting outside on an Autumn evening very comfortable and extends the season for your backyard. Find the <a href="https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-patio-heaters">style that suits you</a> - electric, propane, stand-alone, or tabletop. You may want to consider upgrading your grill to an outdoor Kitchen, so you can keep cooking outdoors well into sweatshirt season. Take a look at these <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/320037117265285327/">budget-friendly ideas</a>.
Let There Be Light(ing) | The days are getting shorter, so your outdoor evenings require light! You can keep your backyard inviting well into the evening by <a href="https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/14-bright-ideas-for-lighting-your-backyard-44312">upgrading your outdoor lighting</a>. Wall lights, string lights, and path lights are easy upgrades to extend your time outdoors.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jiAVNXYYMAFcLqWrqGvyHRR_EYPF0TiCcELDzuKQvQk8Vta1ILT2HIJSQwygyOb_SI7LKDK-FTjuJ4yOEx42h2ir3-gm0qEwisWpqPzyWkvQFZ2Mcv1aUUW5ZpqGxTdpuhqjMM5R=s0" width="1000" />
Now Showing | Set up an outdoor movie area where you can invite friends and family to watch together. You need a <a href="https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/outdoor-ideas/a32106849/diy-backyard-movie-theater/">sheet or screen, projector, and sound system</a> to enjoy a movie, streaming series, or videos! You choose.
Spa Treatments | Even after the pools have closed, you can enjoy the outdoors in colder weather if the water is warm enough! A <a href="https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-hot-tub-brands/">hot tub/spa</a> can soothe your sore muscles after you’ve raked up all those Autumn leaves. Or, you can just sit back and look up at the stars!
Play A Game, Or Two | Make the time to go outside and play a game. Set up a horseshoe pit, or cornhole boards,and grab some warm apple cider. Your friends and neighbors will soon join you! Here are <a href="https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/entertain-the-whole-family-at-home-with-10-diy-lawn-games-44603">some great outdoor game ideas</a>.
We hope these ideas have inspired you to make the most of your backyard space during Autumn. It really is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities. Let us know if you add any of these and how it works out for you. Or, share some of your ideas with the PCSMoves.com community! And, as always, <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">contact us</a> if you have any questions regarding an upcoming PCS move. 2021-10-08T07:51:00-07:002021-10-08T07:54:48-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10707If You Are Not Ready For Pumpkins Just Yet... Some Ideas For Autumn Decorating With A Twist.<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/wb1sR1ZUNL_1h04As00iUbxfNwOK3bUIManUi1l0KyAtM3AhIdX92gri-F_8TVFDb2M-EK_SPHAagPsh6_i14yMlAUpmfKSKSYXGTwLzBJ-mcgIDxfnUo8-jCbi1sHDe5__WX4zc=s0" width="1000" />
If You Are Not Ready For Pumpkins Just Yet...
Some Ideas For Autumn Decorating With A Twist.
Autumn has begun! Our days are beginning to get cooler, the leaves are beginning to fall. Are you itching to start some seasonal decorating but not ready to embrace pumpkins yet? We have curated a few easy ideas to help you ‘ease’ into Autumn in your home. Many of these ideas feature apples and pears, which we LOVE!
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/S3c88nN0Em9OaSD9TJLDfdKoIOJkjsmuYtNLOiPBxWu53WpjKIn7WZPkx67RcfC_DV5sK9OPInKXZLqhZsgejOvLT7oDfzQWi9Yjc2I-UGxKNnK84ihgnxo3Yzn7d38P91gogjl6=s0" width="1000" />
Make An Apple Wreath | Autumn and apples just go together. Take down that summer wreath and make your own seasonal wreath using apples! Here are <a href="https://www.digsdigs.com/23-cute-and-yummy-apple-wreaths-for-fall-home-decor/">bushels of apple wreath ideas</a> for inspiration!
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/khD4Z1AOHfwvY8FHyjt-4kgVbCQT5RBuEWoV5S5r4KM4-BPglwyeYXjEPYuRfzAZybhMhvqywEmAaJEdSi4bKj7MqY00kf4-3eQ9cfFvO4s_SIPdAefxDdSjT4SWLm68GtEwYGJy=s0" width="1000" />
Autumn Room Vignette | Add a pretty Autumn-inspired vignette or centerpiece to a room. <a href="https://www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/holidays/thanksgiving/fall-decor?slide=01831a01-3d85-4a01-b08f-f5cc6afb5004#01831a01-3d85-4a01-b08f-f5cc6afb5004">Little touches</a> can add a big impact, and make the season come alive. Remember, you can start small by incorporating a subtle shift in color to your accessories, or a vase with Autumnal leaves, etc. Lots of times <a href="https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/shop-your-backyard-18-easy-ways-to-decorate-for-fall-pictures">you can source materials from your yard</a>!
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/9xlRFgAt09liKg9kQhK8BuMUgBAujSxSr8408uhHKUXdPiamVhwsfsZ5VdYf2OiWGdsaB-p0Ngixo1yPFwL3AJ9_X1zy-OGl6RMRJxlRUAJBta9gz3McWJHj6rMhQAESIOP5ECDQ=s0" width="1000" />
Cook An Apple Recipe | You can make a yummy early Autumn recipe featuring apples! Just think about how lovely your home will smell. For a true jump into the season, you can <a href="https://hamptonroads.myactivechild.com/blog/apple-picking-in-hampton-roads/">pick your own apples</a>. You can incorporate apples into breakfast, lunch, and dinner with these <a href="https://www.bristolfarms.com/blog/2019/09/5-autumn-time-apple-recipes/">creative recipes</a>.
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/aUNiAw0UGsFdsh46dZeuql1-F7Kik64ZTKnbBAlimCr-7gigzlccqe4Lwxk2Ad4oFZPJDE2h91b5S47LI5U-__8Z3ItxzyMqNgZxdOEiuco5FuBxRPyCtr0mkDgznnwobSlPwFC-=s0" width="1000" />
Give Pears A Seat At And On The Table | Delicious, perfumy pears are such a sophisticated fruit. They are versatile too, working well in both <a href="https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/popular-ingredients/pear-recipes">sweet and savory dishes</a>. Plus, they come in beautiful Autumn colors that can enhance your <a href="https://www.lizmarieblog.com/2020/08/the-best-fall-pear-decor/">Autumn decorating</a>!
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/lu_bxFi_00abCcilXFPjYuYnPkBeH37YCiLTcfMV6wLVFtwKyu902ZZvrd0OrLomGzQzgubbM5Gm5qT5WZXg5_-3x9k1joHtxfudQYzzPczHX8mfabq4ifbN85bTeXPkrGnNbSXb=s0" width="1000" />
Fast Autumn Decor | Use apples, mason jars, and a few springs from the garden to create a pretty centerpiece for your Kitchen table in minutes! It will last for a month if you routinely replace and refresh the blooms. Here is an easy to follow <a href="https://www.stonegableblog.com/green-apples-mason-jars-early-fall-centerpiece/">tutorial</a>.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KORytiNtUR3nD1AzlysOYdvzR1sUsNBS8ol96yOT4T-uuhe8PKpQqLIkXg-tDK7T4rTYi2-h5-PoBFQinI59h4EqV7tfaySvavEIfJRWrnWWhmm_L13cfdbllN3GZW29htEXDgBC=s0" width="1000" />
Think Autumn Textiles | Autumn-inspired throws can be easily draped over your outdoor rocker, or on your favorite sofa. Accent pillows in Autumn colors can be placed in those spots as well.
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/rvyPYsO1vJchM8Pxtwkjev6kAPSviHXGuhOxxSQ-qu4FVHxww2vS3xW0w25LTbmC7zSS0-YYC5JMos52fPfAlLkIVbgOnImUb7oEJMgQlU5eYIprmFZu23AHUM2Ga_J0Yyr56s2Q=s0" width="1000" />
Transition Your Mantel | After your Autumn wreath goes up, it seems appropriate to move your mantel into the season too. If you do not have a mantel, no worries, you can style any long horizontal surface like a sofa table, dining room table, or coffee table. We like this <a href="https://rosevinecottagegirls.com/minimalist-farmhouse-apple-mantel/">minimalist design</a> highlighting apples.
We hope you are inspired by these Autumn decorating ideas. We just love highlighting apples and pears in both decorating and cooking. They are so versatile that way. It will be time for pumpkins and turkeys soon enough, for now it is fun to let your creative juices flow in new ways during this early part of the season. And, if you are looking at an upcoming PCS move, be sure to contact one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> with any questions you have. We love to assist our service members and their families. Happy Autumn!
2021-09-27T05:45:00-07:002021-09-27T05:49:40-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10638Are you stationed at the DoD Joint Complex in Northern Suffolk, Virginia? Lucky You!<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IUkXlo7jA5HM5uW4LpmBX2plG6RpLkWZFxJZVBP2uYphOLo9lKliSxa0nS3qU66PwLoPBDXkcgxkGAczkt1lKXqowUZfvErjh4uPtffY7x2goyVURIdFWUw07_-7n9wMMNszgKAs=s0" width="1000" />
Are You Stationed At The DoD Joint Complex <br />in Northern Suffolk, Virginia?
Lucky You!
The Joint DoD Complex is located in northern Suffolk, Virginia. This unique location is centrally located just minutes from Portsmouth, downtown Norfolk, and the Peninsula in Southeastern Virginia. It is in the fast-growing Harbour View corridor which is a mixed-use area including residential communities, recreation, entertainment, healthcare facilities, shopping, and dining. Everything you need is close by.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BSHNKPTiug1gZ0C7vitPKawKxiRlzEw2fzp79bn37M9J7MHi1QXZ_ID8Bktsogmfn50y8ecPuc58NViI0yH4blZ-F_T9wAUss7AiKGbMcKQ_qRz9vUHPO5ZusigavT_40hZ6trV8=s0" width="1000" />
Suffolk, Virginia | Suffolk is located along the Nansemond River and features southern hospitality, rural charm, and large city amenities. Known for its numerous peanut fields, Suffolk has been the home of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Planters.Peanut.Center/">Planters Peanuts</a> since the early 1900s. Suffolk has many options for those who love the outdoors. It is easy to find places to paddle, walk, bike, fish, or boat. The <a href="https://virginiatraveltips.com/great-dismal-swamp/">Great Dismal Swamp</a> offers over 100,000 acres of outdoor recreation. You can launch your boat at Bennett’s Creek Park and enjoy a day on the water. If golf is your sport, Suffolk has many fine courses including the <a href="https://www.riverfrontgolf.com/">Riverfront Golf Club</a>, <a href="https://www.cedarpointclub.com/">Cedar Point Club</a>, and <a href="https://www.sleepyholegolfcourse.com/">Sleepy Hole Golf Course</a>. And, fishing aficionados should check out <a href="https://dwr.virginia.gov/waterbody/lake-meade/">Lake Meade</a>.
Homes in Suffolk | From luxury homes along the water or golf links and the maintenance-free condominium home neighborhoods in Harbour View, to rural homes on acreage and quiet age-qualified neighborhoods on Bennett’s Creek, Suffolk living has something for everyone. If you are stationed at DoD Joint Complex, you can live close to work and enjoy the lifestyle you want. See below to preview homes that are for sale today near the complex, or contact one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a> for more personalized service.2021-09-15T10:37:00-07:002023-02-16T07:15:47-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10587Military Home Purchase Programs in Virginia<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8Akh3TduZhuJgSNgDyVDmnTivJgmUTM_OP1QuhGGvu2mFEbuswdzAo3qo5LCTUVyetmoVuM--Wo7_QEGbpDfnwN-itvLqkbPzA_E1y-Bv_rtlfeC8Dn2ibStLO8EEe-d0vilikgX=s0" width="1000" />
Military Home Purchase Programs in Virginia
<a href="https://www.vhda.com/Pages/Home.aspx">Virginia Housing (VHDA)</a> has assisted thousands of Virginians buy their first home. They offer loans designed for first-time home buyers, and have programs for repeat buyers as well. You can take advantage of their <a href="https://www.vhda.com/Homebuyers/HomeownershipEdu/Pages/HomeownershipEdu.aspx">FREE homebuyer class</a> to learn about the process, prepare for the financial responsibilities of homeownership, and decide whether or not to make the purchase. The VHDA website is full of valuable resources. Check out this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h1DmrmhQZzA?rel=0&showinfo=0">testimonial video</a> from a military family.
VHDA Military Veterans Program | VHDA has established a partnership with the military to educate service members and their families regarding the homebuying process. Benefits include homebuyer education classes that combine the expertise of Virginia Housing’s education team with that of military financial educators. Topics include Credit and Credit Reporting, Personal Finances, Working With A Lender, The Role Of The Real Estate Agent, Home Inspections, and Closings. The participants will have an opportunity to interact with local subject matter experts. These include lenders, real estate professionals, home inspectors, settlement agents, and nonprofits that will share their experience and knowledge about homeownership. You can search and sign up for upcoming classes <a href="https://www.vhda.com/Homebuyers/Pages/Upcoming-Classes-Events.aspx">here</a>.
Making Homeownership Affordable | Virginia Housing offers a variety of affordable home mortgages with 30-year fixed rates. Some programs do not require a down payment, and some allow for lower credit scores. Their <a href="https://www.vhda.com/Homebuyers/VHDAHomeLoans/Documents/Home-Loan-Options-ebook.pdf">Virginia Housing Loan Combo</a> makes homeownership affordable through a down payment grant, and a federal tax credit. These loans have maximum income and sales price and loan limits varying by location of home. You can download the <a href="https://www.vhda.com/Homebuyers/VHDAHomeLoans/Documents/Home-Loan-Options-ebook.pdf">Home Loan Options eBook</a> for a quick overview of all of Virginia Housing’s grants, mortgages, and programs for homebuyers.
Economic Opportunity Areas | Virginia Housing is permitted to relax some loan requirements in areas specified as Areas of Economic Opportunity/Federal Targeted Areas. Many of these areas are near military bases and it is worth a look. You can look at the interactive map of these areas <a href="https://vhda.maps.arcgis.com/apps/PanelsLegend/index.html?appid=62df0608e3d64772a7050de416c0f288">here</a>.
If you are interested in finding out more about programs available to the military, contact us to be connected to one of our <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Military Relocation Specialists</a>. They are experienced with our Virginia-based programs and military moves. And remember, homeownership is your first step in building security and wealth for the future.
2021-09-10T03:05:00-07:002021-09-10T03:09:13-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10549Local Ways To Mark Labor Day In Hampton Roads and Northeastern North Carolina<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/sSxWdqV6v63CzkcZHyidx36QdaCbZViQMVBnIxp25ubh47bWt_-bTLk_U5TSi_4Rjmt02-4CVBB0ZPQLYUUpSshAkLhghwoDFmpu4wFawZ62ZXPPdR1XCAWxTeLFm5-zh_jhkFr3=s0" width="1000" />
Local Ways To Mark Labor Day In
Hampton Roads & Northeastern North Carolina
Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers. It was created in the late 1800s by the labor movement to acknowledge and honor the efforts of workers who organized to protest poor working conditions, hours, and pay. As a military family, we know you work hard. Marking Labor Day with rest, relaxation, and family fun is a great way to acknowledge those workers' efforts of the past by enjoying our brighter futures. <br /><br />Here are some fun things to do in and around some of our area bases.
Near Fort Eustis | Check out the <a href="https://www.virginiacapitaltrail.org/">Virginia Capital Trail</a>, bring your bikes or you can rent some at <a href="https://www.spokeandart.com/">Spoke & Art Provisions Company</a> located on the trail in Williamsburg. While you are there, enjoy their sandwiches and lovely tree-covered deck. Or, you can hit the road and take the <a href="https://www.virginiadot.org/travel/ferry-jamestown.asp">Jamestown-Scotland Ferry</a> and explore the other side of the James River at <a href="https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/chippokes-plantation">Chippokes Plantation State Park</a> or <a href="https://dwr.virginia.gov/wma/hog-island/">Hog Island Wildlife Management Area</a>.
Near Naval Air Station Oceana | Drive the backroads of Pungo to the <a href="https://militaryaviationmuseum.org/">Military Aviation Museum</a>, and stop at one of the farm stands along the way to pick up some end of the season produce. Or, consider a leisurely beach day at <a href="https://www.navymwroceanadamneck.com/">Dam Neck Annex</a> where you can rent your chairs, umbrellas and watersports equipment instead of lugging it yourself.
Near Norfolk Naval Shipyard | Take in the <a href="https://www.pavilionconcerts.com/events">Rod Wave Soul Fly Tour</a> show this Saturday evening at the <a href="https://www.pavilionconcerts.com/">Portsmouth Pavilion</a>, located right on the Portsmouth waterfront. Or, take the Elizabeth River Ferry over to downtown Norfolk to visit the <a href="https://www.macarthurmemorial.org/">MacArthur Memorial</a> and enjoy lunch in one of the wonderful <a href="https://www.downtownnorfolk.org/explore/dining">restaurants</a> located along Granby Street.
Near Langley Air Force Base | Tour the casemates and fortifications at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/fomr/index.htm">Fort Monroe National Monument</a>, then enjoy lunch and the private beach at the nearby <a href="https://www.paradiseoceanclub.com/">Paradise Ocean Club</a>. Or, stroll the streets of historic <a href="https://www.phoebusva.com/">Phoebus, Virginia</a> to shop for unique gift items and antiques.
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/QcAX8_13UakU28oceues4Wq8026T9NVoJTMfj_dQBMpl60_LzbDXgQqXNq7ViqcPPTAfgllqZyqIKmFI7NexWdVOL__NQymfKQv8tfIO-AvNt8TIib4HfPFgoftlBZv5ur-mgrFl=s0" width="1000" />
Next Stop Football Season | And, of course it is wonderful to spend this last long weekend of Summer relaxing at home, or with friends and family. There are a ton of <a href="https://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/college-football-tv-schedule-game-times-preview">college football games </a>on television this weekend, and the NFL starts next week! Fire up your grill and enjoy <a href="https://www.chicagotribune.com/holidays/sns-how-to-grill-burgers-20210616-3o2y6mn76nfh7bdquwt7pmkmoe-photogallery.html">burgers</a> or how about some <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/how-to-make-grilled-pizza-article">grilled pizza</a>? Now that sounds like a party!
Let us know how you are celebrating Labor Day Weekend in the comments below. We love to hear from you.
2021-09-03T08:38:00-07:002023-02-16T07:14:20-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10481Your End Of Summer To Do List<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/5K8dNWEYl3T9zdx__Jp3uSm01zct293_ZVX8yWmBTmGhJasgXsXGw32VftbMbdLFxUaepSAgBWJHaGI3mPopxUHaKufV9uWPRk21_kCHH0HvM09YRACRvtLJ-4PRp_mSb8qFPOk_=s0" width="1000" />
Your End Of Summer To Do List
Summer is ending and we are preparing for transitions - a new school year, the start of Autumn, and possibly heading back to the office after a period of remote work. This month may feel like a bit of a downshift from summer activities to Autumn and Winter routine. You can stretch out these last days of summer by squeezing in some home projects to prepare for Autumn. Here are our suggestions.
Clean & Store Your Summer Gear | Following your last beach day, take the time to <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-clean-water-toys_n_1571897">clean</a> your buckets, shovels, beach chairs, and boogie boards now so they will be fresh when you take them out next year. If anything needs to be replaced, you can shop at the end of summer sales now.
Set-up A Shared Family Calendar | Whether you decide on a <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/best-wall-calendars-5095247">big wall calendar</a> or a digital version, having <a href="https://www.verywellfamily.com/keeping-your-family-calendar-organized-4777129">one calendar</a> will be a big help. You can set it up and add important dates now.
Prep For Easy Dinners | Clear away clutter in your Kitchen to create a clean workspace on your counter. Remove stale, expired, and unwanted food from your refrigerator and pantry. Donate unwanted and unexpired foods in their original packaging to your local food bank. If you have an abundant backyard harvest this season, be sure to share with your neighbors or our <a href="https://www.pilotonline.com/news/vp-nw-community-fridge-at-mea-culpa-cafe-in-norfolk-20210414-r6ak26znqjdmzm57gkqnoymsi4-story.html">local food donation fridge</a> at <a href="https://meaculpacafe.square.site">Mea Culpa Cafe</a> in Norfolk.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CYhDYjPRaxuoQdmTjhiBZBXayNCoLodER-HYFrph41q4apI2T36CQ8xp8SgTMZ9JlGgLabQ9WHi3RGc_3V1t2_rfK4OZlymS_QxItNGNxz_oISC_e8fv4UCuk02fv1dBBZWCz0Vf=s0" width="1000" />
Organize Your Family Photos | Yes, we said it! It’s time. <a href="https://www.wellandgood.com/how-to-organize-old-photos/">Sort and organize</a> your printed photos. We find the <a href="https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/best-photo-storage-boxes-5087311">photo boxes</a> to be very useful and easy to use for this. Sort and organize your digital photos too. Back-up images to your cloud-based storage, and make an album or book out of recent photos that are your favorites. Your kids will love to look at these books. Print and frame a few favorites to display in your home.
Clean Your Carpets & Floors | Dirt and sand that has been tracked in over the summer can be very hard on your floors. Vacuum and mop floors, and consider having the carpet professional cleaned if needed.
Get Organized For Back-to-School/Work | Look around the house and determine what may make this Fall run smoother. Entryway hooks and cubbies, a better workspace/study area? Clean up and file away loose papers, and create a family filing system.
Check Your Emergency Kit | Check expiration dates on your kit’s food and medications. Check batteries. If you do not have a kit, take the time to <a href="https://www.diynatural.com/emergency-kit-for-preparedness/">make one</a> now.
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/pvtWkKUj60YwgmOthqScLrTgcEbX7X4J-TRlw0wuqN_W471Ceky-Y1oWnJLHxy4jzHOaXqT2f4P-JDtQxQk-IHwdohhoBOEcrxyNAkphJI0hCp3WQhG3g-b5_p6X8UgnunjT9iHy=s0" width="1000" />
Organize Your Closets | Assess what you have in your closets now, before you make any new purchases. Try on clothing, and donate items that you no longer wear. Make a list of anything you may need. <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-organize-your-closet-2648411">Organizing</a> now will save you money and prevent clutter in your closets.
Clean & Organize The Garage | This may be a weekend project. It helps to think ahead and research where you can take items (hazardous waste etc.). Clean out all the clutter first, then assess what type of shelving or organizers would be most helpful for you. Here are some more <a href="https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/how-to-organize-your-garage-from-top-to-bottom-pictures">helpful tips</a>.
Check For Pests | Be proactive regarding pests around your home. Make sure that you remove sources of food, shelter, and water. Close off places where pests may hide. If pesticides are called for, choose the lowest-risk options first, and use according to their directions.
Schedule Some Relaxation Time | Last but not least, carve out some time for relaxation. It may be harder than you think to simply ‘do nothing’. This should not be something for your free time. Schedule your down time to give yourself permission to relax and just ‘be’. You may want to sequester yourself away from normal family activities and distractions. What does one do during do-nothing time? Read a book. Enjoy a cup of tea. Listen to music. Meditate. The choice is yours to make. <br /><br />If you are looking at a PCS move in the future, be sure to <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">contact</a> one of our Military Relocation Specialists to assist you through the process. We are here to help. 2021-08-26T10:51:00-07:002021-08-26T10:54:42-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10418Purchasing A Home Remotely<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/2cxu93De3msq6Qu7Bb9pOyqm2HLvGhWo3tonFkzvImbn0vpBy1sZhVjXvDDS9PFx7MIRj9AwI3PdbXw6_kEWUEzGzSV72MxPQCipG8UvWRTIrqeRmKDtF6_uRDN2l-xIRd4fT5hN" width="1000" />
Purchasing A Home Remotely
Purchasing a home remotely has become increasingly common these days. Sellers have long been able to pre-sign their paperwork and skip the closing table, and now the entire process can be completed remotely allowing buyers the same opportunity. This is especially useful for PCS homebuyers as they may be out of the country, or enroute to their new home when the closing is scheduled. A critical part of this process is your REALTOR®. Selecting an agent that is experienced in remote sales is key. The agent will attend the closing in person, even if you have signed your documents through electronic signature.
Why Buy Remotely | Most remote purchasers are from out of state (or country), and have jobs or other obligations that prevent them from spending in-person time for the home buying process. Parents who are purchasing a home for an adult child may wish to buy remotely because they do not need to see the home, and most times are making an all-cash purchase. Real estate investors often purchase remotely because it is a time-saving option. There are certain steps that you should take to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.
Find The Right REALTOR® | In a remote transaction, you will depend on your real estate agent to handle nearly all of the process. It is critical to find an agent experienced with remote transactions who is also a good fit for you. A personality match is important to find, so try to have a video interview, and ask for references!
Talk About Experience | Experience matters, and REALTORS® who work with remote buyers often are more likely to understand how the process works. They can find suitable properties for your consideration, and negotiate favorably. The agent should also be able to advise on a local lender because a local appraiser is critically important to the process. During your <a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/how-to-interview-a-real-estate-agent/">interview</a> process, the agent should be able to talk extensively about their contacts and connections, past transactions, and how they worked through the process. Experience with military buyers is beneficial as well.
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Ask About Availability | The REALTOR® that you select should be a full-time agent. They will be serving as your proxy, so they will need to be available during standard working hours to handle a variety of tasks. They will be handling appraisals, inspections, and even possibly repairs that need to be completed before closing. Also, discuss being available to communicate with you if you are not in the same time zone!
Communicate Your Wish List | Once you have selected your REALTOR®, share your <a href="https://www.frameworkhomeownership.org/blog/the-needs-vs-wants-checklist">wish list</a> with them so they can begin to search for your ideal home. Refine your list, but remember that the more items on it, the slower the search will go. It may be a good idea to include your ‘deal breakers’ or rank your wishes by priority. Things that really matter include location, size, and housing type. As a buyer, you will need to trust your agent. They know what you are looking for and may say ‘no’ to a home you think looks great (online). They should be able to let you know quickly why it should not be considered in relation to your wish list.
Get Ready To Close! | The <a href="https://www.docusign.com/learn/esign-act-ueta#:~:text=The%20ESIGN%20Act%20is%20a,and%20to%20sign%20them%20electronically.&text=No%20contract%2C%20signature%2C%20or%20record,it%20is%20in%20electronic%20form">e-Sign Act of 2000</a> renders your electronic signature just as valid as if you signed the documents in person. And, technology has improved tenfold since then! You most likely will receive the documents and addenda from your REALTOR®. You will sign using an electronic-signature system that then sends the signed documents to the appropriate party.
The bottom line is that this is a great resource and solution for many PCS moves where it would be difficult to be in the physical location of the closing at the appointed time. You will be relying on your REALTOR® to make this work. We can assist you in finding the right agent, with experience with military homebuyers and remote closings. <a href="http://pcsmoves.com/contact">Contact us</a> today. 2021-08-19T13:33:00-07:002021-08-19T13:36:36-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10357Facing a PCS Move Later This Year? Host A Summertime Yard Sale<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/x0v_dZgoDYp2ZinYHLWzveHZLZZwnsVXpAi6Fpuqn7toX7fJcnfCTzfsWtUYjFIWvTVkgs-G7bd1kv4SPPO0xsZ4RhiJvLbIuRDgvwpoENK6SPxCVXDLYIqE5_yawnrX8U4Q-9Pq" width="1000" />
Facing A PCS Move Later This Year?<br />Host A Summertime Yard Sale.
Summer is the perfect time to organize and declutter. Once you do, you will have items to sell at a yard sale. Many homeowners associations and civic organizations host community yard sales to increase traffic. The extra cash generated can be used for back-to-school clothes or supplies. Now that’s what we call a win-win!
Getting Started | Move quickly from room to room making a list of items that you do not want anymore. Include clothing that does not fit or that you do not like. Take a critical eye toward ‘extras’. Do you really need an extra set of dishes or pots? Those are the type of items that are easily sold at yard sales. Don’t forget to evaluate your kid’s clothing that they may have outgrown, and toys that they no longer play with. Both are great candidates for yard sales. Next you can organize the items and decide on prices. You can price items individually or arrange groups of items that will all be priced the same amount - i.e. items on this table are $2 each, etc. Launder clothing items and clean household items to garner the best prices possible. You may want to invest in a package of labels to use for pricing items, or masking tape can be used.
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Getting The Word Out | A neighborhood yard sale date is the best way to get the word out and increase possible traffic. Advertising can pay off as there are devoted yard sale shoppers in all communities that devote their weekends to bargain shopping. You can also utilize Craig’s List, and Facebook Marketplace. Add a few signs in strategic areas that are well-trafficked, and some directional signs to get people to your house. Consider having your sale over Friday and Saturday.<br /><br />Good luck. Who knows, your profits may be all the money you need to get your kids prepared for the upcoming school year! With a little planning, you will be all set for a successful sale… and a smoother upcoming PCS move! If you are moving to or from the Hampton Roads, Southeastern Virginia, or Northeastern North Carolina region, contact one of our <a href="https://www.pcsmoves.com/contact/">Military Relocation Specialists</a> for assistance.2021-08-13T08:18:00-07:002021-08-13T08:21:30-07:00PCSmoves Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:15619Smart Downsizing Tips for Moving to a Smaller Home
Moving to a smaller home can be a liberating experience, allowing you to focus on what truly matters and enjoy the benefits of a simpler, more efficient lifestyle. However, it can also be challenging to decide what to keep, what to let go, and how to make the most of your new space. In this blog post, we'll explore some practical downsizing ideas from our friends at New Day <a href="https://newdayestatesales.com/virginia-beach-estate-sales-new-day-estate-sale/">Estate Sales in Virginia Beach</a> and <a href="https://newdayestatesales.com/chesapeake-estate-sales/">New Day Estate Sales in Chesapeake</a>. They help people settle estates and downsize every day. that will help you transition smoothly and successfully to a smaller home.
Start Early and Plan Ahead
The downsizing process can take time, so it's important to start planning and organizing as soon as possible. This allows you to be thoughtful about what you truly need and avoid making rushed decisions. Create a timeline and set deadlines for each step of the process, from decluttering and selling items to packing and moving.
Assess Your New Space
Before you start downsizing, take some time to analyze your new living space. Consider the layout, storage options, and any restrictions you might face. This will help you determine what items will fit and what you'll need to let go of. Create a floor plan and use it as a guide for deciding what to keep and where everything will be placed.
Prioritize Your Belongings
To effectively downsize, you need to be selective about what you bring into your new home. Consider the functionality, sentimental value, and frequency of use for each item. You may want to create categories, such as "must-keep," "maybe," and "can live without," to help guide your decision-making process.
Declutter and Let Go
When it comes to downsizing, less is more. Begin by decluttering your current home, room by room. Be ruthless in your evaluation of each item and remember that letting go can be an opportunity for personal growth and fresh beginnings. Sell, donate, or recycle items that won't make the cut, and ensure you properly dispose of any hazardous materials.
Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture
In a smaller home, multi-functional furniture can be a lifesaver. Look for pieces that can serve multiple purposes, such as a bed with built-in storage, a coffee table that doubles as a desk, or a dining table that folds away when not in use. This will help you maximize your living space and maintain a clutter-free environment.
Make Use of Vertical Space
When floor space is limited, utilizing vertical space becomes essential. Install shelves, hooks, and wall-mounted storage solutions to keep your belongings organized and accessible. This will not only help you save space but also create a visually appealing and well-organized environment.
Embrace Digital Solutions
Going digital can significantly reduce the amount of physical clutter in your home. Scan important documents and photos and store them in a secure cloud service. You can also opt for e-books, digital subscriptions, and streaming services instead of physical books, magazines, and DVDs.
Consider a Storage Unit
If you're struggling to part with certain items or need a temporary solution during your transition, consider renting a storage unit. This can provide a safe space to store items you don't have room for but aren't ready to let go of just yet. Keep in mind that this should be a temporary solution, and you should eventually reevaluate the need for these items.
Downsizing to a smaller home is an opportunity to create a more streamlined, efficient, and enjoyable living space. By planning ahead, prioritizing your belongings, and making smart choices about furniture and storage, you can successfully transition to a smaller home without sacrificing comfort or functionality. Embrace the change and enjoy the freedom and simplicity that come with downsizing.2021-08-03T07:51:00-07:002023-04-03T08:02:54-07:00MilVet Homes Teamtag:pcsmoves.com,2012-09-20:10200Are You PCSing to Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth Virginia<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ZvmJLmxqePxm6egJY4mxu7WCAlBRAevmP0nfuGhA110uNuWKHxmtPJtqplHQOYa27-mfR680vZcWDepAYaBUZQ6O2ZODMLcweM2uc7jITuFW-EcU11UQWH6R41vbWkmdAlFhQY-g" width="1000" />
Are You PCSing To Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia?
The <a href="https://portsmouth.tricare.mil/">Naval Medical Center Portsmouth</a> is one of the U.S. Navy’s state-of-the-art medical centers. The facility includes nine branch clinics located throughout the Hampton Roads, Virginia region. It also includes premier training and research programs for new doctors, hospital corpsmen, and nurses. The medical center is near the <a href="https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Home/Shipyards/Norfolk/">Norfolk Naval Shipyard</a>, also located in Portsmouth. Portsmouth is centrally located to Norfolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and Suffolk, Virginia.
The historic town of Portsmouth is located along the Elizabeth River, directly across from the city of Norfolk in Southeastern Virginia. Portsmouth was founded in 1750 and was a shipbuilding center of the period. Today, the town has many quaint neighborhoods, as well as some high-rise condominium buildings along the waterfront. Olde Towne Portsmouth has old-time Main Street charm with loads of beautifully preserved buildings. There are many locally acclaimed restaurants in Portsmouth.
The weather is temperate, so you can enjoy a lot of outdoor activities - from biking along the river, to enjoying an outdoor concert on an Autumn evening. The town plays host to many festivals and art shows during the year. The pace in Portsmouth is a little slower than some of its neighbors making it a peaceful place to call home.
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/GliBvz050jKcbTyGUO0uzJgl9VyTKl0LGu8DyAcEEPYwPro3qdmt4CVv_kEhGaYsJmJa5AgxDbI8-MUpzd_mcIeL_leX94Rg7cM1QewkpivxcBW0C92J0vVVH88Fu7ymVmwLMFME" width="1000" />
There are a few new home communities available in Portsmouth, but the real draw are the older neighborhoods with loads of character. Many are located along the scenic working riverfront. Portsmouth’s real estate market is very affordable, especially if you are looking for a charming cottage to fix up and call your own.
Take a look at the homes that are for sale right now in Portsmouth, if you would like to schedule a showing, please contact one of our Military Relocation Specialists.2021-07-22T14:11:00-07:002021-07-22T14:23:54-07:00PCSmoves Team