Meet Amy Howell,
Your PCS and real estate expert
Amy Howell is not just a military spouse who has PCS’d around the world—she’s also the owner of O.N.E. Florida Group, a veteran-owned and run real estate team dedicated to making your military move as smooth as possible. Amy has personally experienced every aspect of military life, from renting and buying homes with VA loans to turning those homes into income properties. She understands the unique challenges military families face and is here to help every step of the way.
Whether you have questions about finding the perfect neighborhood, navigating VA loans, or simply need guidance through the PCS process, Amy is just a call or text away. Her phone is always on her, so don’t hesitate to reach out—she’s ready to support you like family. You’re not alone in this journey, and with Amy’s expertise and personal touch, you’ll feel right at home in Northeast Florida.
Relocating due to a PCS (Permanent Change of Station) can be a daunting process, especially when moving to a new area like Northeast Florida. Whether you're headed to NAS Jacksonville or Naval Station Mayport, this guide is designed to help you navigate the complexities of your move with ease. From finding the perfect home to calculating your allowances and managing the logistics, we’ve got you covered. Plus, make sure to use our BAH calculator, interactive military PCS checklist that saves your progress, and our PCS move total weight calculator to simplify your move!
At O.N.E. Florida Group, we understand the challenges of a PCS move because we've been there ourselves. Our team is veteran-owned and run, and we're proud members of the REAL Military division. With military relocation specialists and VA loan professionals ready to assist, we have the expertise and personal experience to make your move as seamless as possible.
01
Your PCS Orders
Get Your Official Orders:
Begin the process by obtaining your official orders. These are essential for scheduling your household goods (HHG) shipment and arranging other logistical aspects of your move.
Power of Attorney for Spouses
If the service member is deployed or away for training during the PCS, it's crucial for the spouse managing the move to obtain a power of attorney. This legal document will allow the spouse to sign necessary paperwork, make decisions regarding the move, and handle other critical aspects that may require the service member’s authorization.
Remember!
If you're moving with the Navy, check if your gaining command offers a "Sponsor Program" or a Command Sponsor. This can connect you with someone at your new duty station who can answer questions, provide local insights, and even help with some pre-arrival logistics. It’s a great way to have a point of contact before you even arrive!
02
Decide Your Move Type: DPS vs. DITY
Military Move (DPS):
Scheduling with DPS: If you're having the military handle your move, schedule through the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) as soon as you receive your official orders. Ideally, aim to schedule at least 8 to 12 weeks before your desired move date to secure your preferred dates and services, especially during peak moving seasons (summer months). For short-notice orders (within 14 days), contact your local transportation office directly for assistance.
Pros:
- Professional movers handle packing, loading, transportation, and unloading of your household goods.
- Insurance coverage for your items during the move.
- Reduced personal involvement and stress on moving day.
Cons:
- Limited control over packing and handling of your items.
- Potential scheduling delays, especially during peak seasons.
- Less flexibility in choosing specific moving dates.
DITY (Personally Procured Move):
A DITY move, or Personally Procured Move, allows you to take full control of your PCS move by handling the packing, transporting, and unloading of your household goods yourself. Instead of having the military arrange your move, you can rent a truck, use a portable moving container, or even ship your items. The military will reimburse you up to 100% of what it would have cost them to move you, potentially allowing you to pocket some extra cash if you can keep your expenses low. This option is great for those who want flexibility, enjoy managing their own move, or are looking to maximize their PCS reimbursement.
Pros:
- Full control over packing, transporting, and handling your items.
- Potential to earn money if your actual moving expenses are lower than the government’s reimbursement rate.
- Flexibility to choose your own moving dates and schedule.
Cons:
- More personal responsibility and effort required to plan and execute the move.
- You’re responsible for any damage or loss of your items.
- Must handle the logistics of renting a truck, moving supplies, and potentially hiring help for loading and unloading.
Remember!
Each service member has weight limits for their household goods based on their pay grade. Exceeding these limits can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. Before you start packing, be sure to check the weight allowance for your rank using our weight limit calculator to ensure you stay within the authorized limits. This tool will help you avoid extra costs and make your PCS move stress-free!
03
Contact a Military Relocation Specialist
Get Expert Guidance from O.N.E. Florida Group:
Our team includes certified military relocation specialists and VA loan professionals who are equipped to handle the unique challenges of military moves. As a veteran-owned and run business, we know the PCS process inside and out, having PCS’d all over the world ourselves.
Virtual and In-Person Showings:
Work with your Realtor to arrange virtual showings of homes if you’re unable to visit in person. Our team can provide detailed tours and answer your questions remotely, making it easier for you to find the perfect home even if you’re halfway across the globe.
Early Contact Benefits:
The earlier you connect with a Realtor, the more smoothly your move can go. We’ll help you navigate housing options, coordinate with base housing if needed, and get you set up with VA loan professionals who understand the nuances of military benefits and financing.
Timing is everything!
Contacting a military relocation specialist early in the process can save you time, stress, and money. Our team can help you navigate the housing market, secure financing options like VA loans, and even set up home tours before you arrive. By starting early, you’ll have more options and better chances of finding the perfect home that meets your needs and fits your budget. Don’t wait—reach out to O.N.E. Florida Group as soon as you receive your PCS orders to get the expert guidance you deserve!
04
Housing Options: On-Base vs. Off-Base
Living On-Base:
Choosing to live on-base can offer a sense of familiarity and convenience that many military families appreciate. Here are some of the key benefits of on-base housing.
Pros:
- Convenience: Close proximity to work and base amenities like the commissary, exchange, gyms, and schools.
- Community: Living among other military families fosters a strong sense of community and support.
- Cost Control: Rent and utilities are often covered entirely by your BAH, eliminating extra costs.
- Security: Gated access and military police provide added safety.
Cons:
- Waitlists: On-base housing can have long waitlists, especially during peak PCS seasons.
- Less Variety: Limited options in terms of home style, size, and customization.
- Base Restrictions: Living on base means adhering to military rules and regulations, which can include restrictions on pets, home modifications, and guest access.
- You never really escape work!
Living Off-Base:
Living off-base offers a wider range of housing options and the chance to experience the local community in Northeast Florida. Here’s why off-base living might be the best choice for your family:
Pros:
- Variety of Choices: Off-base housing offers more options, including new construction homes, larger properties, and modern amenities like pools, gyms, and community centers. You can truly find a home that fits your family’s lifestyle and preferences.
- Freedom and Flexibility: Enjoy the freedom to make your house feel like home, with fewer restrictions on home modifications, pets, and daily living.
- Thriving Communities: Northeast Florida boasts tight-knit communities filled with military families and veterans, offering a supportive environment similar to on-base living but with the added benefit of diverse neighborhoods and local amenities.
- Potential Cost Savings: Depending on the area, you may find more affordable housing options, allowing you to maximize your BAH and potentially save money.
- Experience Local Life: Living off-base gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, explore unique dining and shopping experiences, and access highly-rated schools and recreational activities.
Cons:
- Commute: Some neighborhoods may have longer commute times to the base, so it's important to consider traffic patterns and distance.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Utility costs, HOA fees, or other home-related expenses might not be fully covered by your BAH, so budgeting is key.
We can help!
When choosing between on-base and off-base housing, consider your family’s unique needs, lifestyle preferences, and financial goals. Take advantage of our BAH Calculator to see what your allowance will cover in the Jacksonville area, and don’t hesitate to connect with one of our military relocation specialists at O.N.E. Florida Group. We can guide you through the pros and cons of each option, arrange virtual or in-person tours, and help you find a home that’s the perfect fit. Your comfort and convenience are our top priority, so reach out early to make the best decision for your PCS move!
05
Best Neighborhoods for Military Families in Northeast Florida
let's find the one for you!
When moving to Northeast Florida, selecting the right neighborhood is key to ensuring a comfortable and convenient living experience. Below are some of the best neighborhoods for military families, along with a quick look at the pros and cons, and average commute times to NAS Jacksonville (NAS JAX) and Naval Station Mayport (NS MAYPORT):
Fleming Island
Riverside/Avondale
Nocatee
St. Johns
Mandarin
Atlantic Beach
Ponte Vedra Beach
Jacksonville Beach
Orange Park
Yulee
Oakleaf
Fernandina Beach
Middleburg
San Marco
Note: Commute times are estimates and can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.
06
Preparing for the Move: The Ultimate PCS Checklist
4-6 Months Before Moving
3-4 Months Before Moving
2-3 Months Out
1-2 Months Out
2-4 Weeks Out
1 Week Out
Remember, every PCS move is unique. Adjust this checklist as needed to fit your specific situation and timeline. Good luck with your move!
PCS Checklist: Your Move, Your Way
Stay organized during your PCS with our comprehensive checklist! We offer two convenient options to suit your style:
- Printable PDF Checklist: Perfect for those who prefer a tangible, pen-and-paper approach. Print it out, stick it on your fridge, and check off tasks as you go. Great for at-a-glance progress tracking and family coordination.
- Interactive Online Checklist: For the tech-savvy mover, our online version automatically saves your progress. Access it from any device, anytime, anywhere. Simply bookmark the page and stay up-to-date whether you're at home or on the go. Ideal for those who want real-time updates and the convenience of digital tracking.
Choose the option that works best for you, or use both to ensure you've got all bases covered. Happy moving!
07
PCS Moving Day: Tips for Success
the time has come!
- The day before your move, gather all packed boxes in one area, like your garage, to make loading easier.
- Create a "first night" box with essentials you'll need immediately at your new home.
- Clearly label each box with the contents and the room it should go in at your new home. This will simplify the unloading process.
- Use color-coded labels for each room to make sorting even easier.
- If you're doing a Personally Procured Move (PPM), remember to weigh your truck both empty and full to maximize your reimbursement.
- Keep all weight tickets and receipts for reimbursement purposes.
- Pack a box with items you'll need immediately upon arrival: toiletries, a change of clothes, basic tools, snacks, and important documents.
- Keep this box with you rather than loading it onto the moving truck.
- Take photos or videos of valuable items before they're packed.
- For electronics, photograph serial numbers and take pictures of how cords are connected.
- Keep pathways clear of boxes and packing materials to prevent trips and falls.
- Have a first-aid kit easily accessible throughout the moving process.
- Prepare a cooler with water and snacks to keep everyone hydrated and energized throughout the day.
- Consider ordering pizza or sandwiches for lunch to keep the moving process going smoothly.
- If possible, arrange for childcare or pet-sitting on moving day to minimize stress and distractions.
- If children are present, assign them age-appropriate tasks to help them feel involved.
- Before the movers leave, do a thorough check of every room, including closets, attics, and outdoor areas.
- Don't forget to check appliances like the refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher for any left-behind items.
- Keep all important documents (orders, ID cards, medical records, school records) with you rather than packing them.
- Consider using a portable file box for easy access to these documents throughout your move.
- If possible, have someone at your new home to direct movers where to place furniture and boxes.
- Bring basic cleaning supplies to quickly clean areas before unpacking.
- Confirm that you've updated your address with USPS, banks, and other important contacts.
- If you haven't already, set up mail forwarding to ensure you don't miss any important correspondence.
Remember, staying organized and prepared can significantly reduce the stress of moving day. Good luck with your PCS move!
