PCS to Texas? Here’s Your Step-by-Step Home Buying Plan

by Ron Davis

If you’ve received PCS (Permanent Change of Station) orders to Texas, you might be wondering: Should we rent? Should we buy? Where do we even start?

Whether you're heading to Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), Dyess AFB, or another Texas installation, this guide will help you understand how to buy a home smartly and confidently during your PCS.

🇺🇸 Why Buying in Texas During a PCS Makes Sense

Texas is consistently ranked as one of the most military-friendly states, offering:

No state income tax
A strong housing market in many areas
Affordable home prices compared to national averages
Excellent access to VA home loan resources

If you’re planning to stay for at least 2–3 years or want to build long-term equity, buying could be your smartest move yet.

🪖 Your PCS Home Buying Plan: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Build Your Relocation Timeline

Your timeline may be tight, so lay out key dates:

Orders received
Desired move-in date
Travel arrangements
Temporary lodging (if needed)

If possible, allow 45–60 days from offer to close, but know that remote buying and digital closings can move faster with the right team.

Step 2: Get Pre-Approved with a VA Loan Lender

A VA loan is an incredible benefit for military buyers:

$0 down payment
No PMI
Lower interest rates
Flexible credit and income standards

Your pre-approval will guide your budget and help sellers take your offer seriously.

💡 Tip: Work with a lender experienced in PCS timelines and VA lending. They’ll know how to speed up the process.

Step 3: Work with a Military-Smart Realtor in Texas

Your agent should understand:

Military timelines and urgency
Remote and sight-unseen purchases
VA loan property standards
Texas neighborhoods with good appreciation and strong BAH alignment

They’ll be your boots on the ground, helping you scout homes, submit offers, and line up inspections—even before you arrive.

Step 4: Tour Virtually (or in Person)

If you’re still out of state, don’t worry—virtual home tours and narrated video walkthroughs make it possible to buy confidently from afar.

Ask for:

Detailed walk-through videos
Local neighborhood info
Insight on commute times, school districts, and resale value

Step 5: Make an Offer and Prepare for VA Appraisal

Your agent will negotiate the offer and contingencies on your behalf. VA loans also require a VA appraisal to confirm the home is safe, sound, and worth the price.

⚠️ Avoid homes with major deferred maintenance, as they may not meet VA minimum property standards.

Step 6: Close Remotely and Get Ready to PCS

Most military buyers close remotely. Your lender and title team will coordinate final signatures, and your agent can handle:

Final walk-through
Key transfer
Local utility setup info

You can move in when your boots hit the ground.

🏡 Your PCS Doesn’t Have to Be Chaotic

Buying a home during a PCS to Texas doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right plan, the right team, and the benefit of the VA loan, it can actually be a major win for your financial future.