PCS Move Checklist: What Should I Do First Before Moving to Crestview, FL?

Tanya Rivera
2 days ago
5 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Moving to Crestview Florida for a military PCS can feel overwhelming. With orders in hand, you want to make sure every step is clear and manageable. As a Crestview FL real estate agent born and raised here, and a PCS relocation specialist Florida military families trust, I understand the unique challenges of military relocation Crestview FL. Whether you’re headed to Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field, or Duke Field, this PCS checklist Florida will guide you through what to do first and how to plan your move smoothly.

Eye-level view of a military family arriving in a Crestview neighborhood with moving boxes — Military family arriving in Crestview neighborhood

Military family arriving in a friendly Crestview neighborhood, ready to start their new chapter.

What to Do First When You Get PCS Orders

The moment you receive your PCS orders, your first priority is to review your orders carefully and understand your reporting dates and location details. For a PCS move to Crestview FL, knowing your timeline helps you avoid last-minute stress.

Next, contact a Crestview FL realtor for military families who knows the local market and military relocation needs. I specialize in helping military families moving to Crestview find the right home near Eglin AFB PCS housing, Hurlburt Field PCS relocation, and Duke Field PCS move areas.

Start gathering important documents like your military ID, housing allowances, and VA loan information if you plan to buy a home. This early preparation sets a strong foundation for your move.

Build a PCS Timeline (90/60/30 Days)

Creating a timeline helps you stay on track. Here’s a simple breakdown:

90 Days Before Move

- Research Crestview Florida homes for sale and neighborhoods.

- Schedule a consultation with a VA loan real estate agent Crestview FL if buying.

- Begin decluttering and organizing your current home.

60 Days Before Move

- Finalize your housing decision: rent or buy in Crestview FL.

- Arrange for movers or transportation of your belongings.

- Notify your current landlord or housing office.

30 Days Before Move

- Confirm moving dates and travel plans.

- Update your address with USPS, banks, and other important contacts.

- Prepare a PCS checklist Florida for packing essentials and documents.

Rent vs Buy in Crestview First

One of the biggest questions military families moving to Crestview face is whether to rent or buy. Both options have pros and cons:

Renting offers flexibility if your PCS orders might change or if you want to explore Crestview neighborhoods before committing. Areas near Antioch Road Crestview homes and Sandy Ridge Crestview FL have great rental options close to I-10 access.
Buying can be a smart investment, especially with VA loan homes in Crestview FL available. Buying means building equity and settling into the community long-term. Foxwood Crestview neighborhood and Downtown Crestview offer attractive homes for military families.

As a Crestview FL real estate agent, I help military families weigh these options based on their PCS timeline and family needs.

Learn Crestview Neighborhoods and Commute Tips

Understanding Crestview’s neighborhoods and commute routes is key to a smooth transition. Crestview is known for its military-friendly neighborhoods Crestview FL, with easy access to major bases.

Foxwood is a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood with parks and schools.
Sandy Ridge offers newer homes and quick access to I-10, perfect for commuters.
Downtown Crestview has a charming small-town feel with shops and dining.
Antioch Road Crestview homes provide convenient routes to Eglin AFB and Hurlburt Field.

Commuting to Eglin AFB or Hurlburt Field from Crestview is straightforward via I-10 and local highways. Knowing your route ahead of time helps reduce stress on your first day.

VA Loan Pre-Approval Step

If you plan to buy a home during your Military PCS move Florida, getting VA loan pre-approval is essential. This step shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and helps you understand your budget.

Work with a VA loan real estate agent Crestview FL who understands military benefits and can guide you through the paperwork. Pre-approval speeds up the home buying process, which is crucial when PCS timelines are tight.

Why Working with a Local PCS Realtor Matters

A local Crestview FL real estate agent brings insider knowledge about the community, schools, and military relocation Crestview FL resources. I was born and raised here, so I know the best neighborhoods in Crestview FL and can help you find homes near I-10 Crestview FL for easy base access.

Local agents also have connections with lenders, inspectors, and movers familiar with military PCS moves. This network makes your transition smoother and less stressful.

Top PCS Mistakes to Avoid

Military families moving to Crestview often make these common mistakes:

Waiting too long to start the housing search.
Not getting VA loan pre-approval early.
Overlooking commute times to Eglin AFB or Hurlburt Field.
Ignoring local school options and community amenities.
Skipping a detailed PCS checklist Florida for packing and paperwork.

Avoid these pitfalls by planning ahead and working with a PCS relocation specialist Florida military families trust.

Eye-level view of a realtor meeting a military couple with a PCS checklist in Crestview — Realtor meeting military couple with checklist

Trusted Crestview FL realtor guiding a military couple through their PCS checklist and home options.

Printable PCS Checklist Summary

Here’s a quick PCS checklist Florida to keep handy:

Review PCS orders and note reporting dates
Contact a Crestview FL real estate agent for military families
Research neighborhoods: Foxwood, Sandy Ridge, Antioch Road, Downtown Crestview
Decide rent vs buy and start VA loan pre-approval if buying
Build a 90/60/30 day timeline for tasks
Arrange movers and update addresses
Pack essentials and important documents
Plan commute routes to Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field, Duke Field
Avoid common PCS mistakes by staying organized

Ready for Your PCS Move to Crestview FL?

Moving to Crestview Florida is a fresh start for your military family. With the right plan and local support, you can find the perfect home and community. Contact me today for a customized PCS game plan and a free relocation guide tailored to military families moving to Crestview. Let’s make your transition smooth and stress-free.

Wide angle view of a scenic Crestview community with green spaces and homes — Scenic Crestview community lifestyle image

Scenic view of a Crestview neighborhood showcasing the community lifestyle and green spaces.

PCS FAQs for Military Families Moving to Crestview

1. How far is Crestview from Eglin Air Force Base?

Crestview is about 20 miles from Eglin AFB, roughly a 25-minute drive via I-10 and local highways.

2. Is Crestview FL good for military families?

Yes, Crestview offers military-friendly neighborhoods, good schools, and easy base access, making it ideal for military families.

3. Should I rent or buy in Crestview FL during my PCS?

It depends on your PCS timeline and family needs. Renting offers flexibility; buying builds equity and stability.

4. What neighborhoods are best near Eglin AFB?

Foxwood, Sandy Ridge, and Antioch Road Crestview homes are popular for their location and community amenities.

5. Can I use a VA loan to buy a home in Crestview?

Absolutely. Many military families use VA loan homes in Crestview FL, and working with a VA loan real estate agent Crestview FL simplifies the process.