Peterson Space Force Base
KEY CONTACTS
Housing Management Office
21CES/CEIH
650 McChord St.
Bldg. 1098
Peterson SFB, 80914
PH: (719) 556-4777
(719) 556-4332
Privatized Housing
Tierra Vista Communities
650 McChord St.
Colorado Springs, CO 80916
PH: (888) 718-7234
Airman and Family
Readiness Center
135 Dover St.
BLDG 350
Peterson SFB, CO 80914
PH: (719) 556-6141
School Liaison
PH: (719) 556-6141
Remote work, call or email
Most installation services will be available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. As always, call first to confirm hours and availability of services.
Helpful hint: Contact these offices early in the week during the morning time
About Peterson SFB
Colorado Springs is home to a number of military installations and is an enviable posting! Fort Carson, Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, and the prestigious United States Air Force Academy
are all located in this picturesque Colorado town. Did you catch that? There are THREE Air Force installations here. If there is ever a clue to a phenomenal standard of living, it’s that. As a bonus, U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks Colorado Springs in the top ten of their “Best Places to Live” list. Quality of life, job prospects, and affordability were key in their ranking of metropolitan cities. Peterson Space Force Base, formerly Peterson Air Force Base, is home to the 21st Mission Support Group; the Space Operations Command’s Space Delta 1, 2, 3, and; and the Space and
Missile Systems Center. It hosts the U.S. Army’s Space & Missile Defense Command, the U.S. Air Force’s 302nd Airlift Wing, and the Department of Defense’s North American Aerospace Defense Command and the United States Northern Command. Also located nearby is the Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, which falls under the Peterson Space Base command.
The history of Colorado Springs is rooted in the Gold Rush of the mid-1800s. Here at the eastern foot of the Rockies, you’ll still find evidence of wealthy mine owners in the grand Victorian homes near Cheyenne Mountain as well as of the eclectic and frontiersman’s spirit of the miners down in the foothills and surrounding plains. With more than 300 days of glorious sunshine a year, the dry climate and mellow seasons promote an extremely active lifestyle. Locals and tourists alike enjoy year-round outdoor recreation.
Want next-day Amazon shipping, Uber, and grocery delivery service? This area has all of the modern day amenities a city slicker can dream of. Being that it is a city, you may have to spend some time and really explore to find something that fits your BAH, but no worries! We’re here to help. No matter what area you choose, you’ll still be reasonably close to any other part of town. Most of your day-to-day needs are reachable within 15 to 20 minutes of wherever you choose to call “home.” With top-rated hospitals and treatment facilities, you won’t have to journey far for specialized services. As a bonus, if you’re searching for a bigger city, greater employment opportunities, or just want to get away, Denver is only a little over an hour away!
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Nearby Neighborhoods
Briargate
About
If you ask people stationed in Colorado Springs about where to live, they are very likely to recommend Briargate. This is a fantastic family area and is conveniently located near most installations. The “big brand” (and luxury brand) shopping is centralized here, and the area is bursting with amenities. Fantastic schools, tightly knit communities, larger homes set on more oversized lots, and incredible mountain vistas make this a top contender for most families PCSing to the area.
Neighbors
Here in the suburbs, you’ll find many military families, retirees, and the working class and professionals of Colorado Springs. This is a trendy area for the Air Force Academy because of its proximity to the school, but many find the commute to other installations reasonable.
Neighborhood Feel
Most of the homes in the area were built over the last 20 years. There was a boom in building in the 1990s, then a lull, but now you’ll find construction taking off again and spreading northward. This provides ample opportunity to find newer neighborhoods and a chance at personalized building if that’s what you’re looking for. The areas are very family-friendly and planned out to foster a strong sense of community. Trails, parks, well-lit sidewalks, and mature and well-maintained landscaping are typical. Some of the neighborhoods have a “cookie-cutter” feel to them, but newer construction is widely available as well. Homes here tend to be roomier and have more land and some elevation variation—not just parcels of flat farmland. Some homes are set on hillsides, and most have stunning mountain views.
Neighborhood Info | Briargate
POINTS OF INTEREST
Big Plus
- Briargate is bursting with new strip malls and outdoor shopping with all the brands you know and love.
- Because it is located near I-25, commuting south to Fort Carson and getting downtown is easy.
- Briargate boasts a great YMCA and multiple parks, trails, and even skate parks.
- This area is part of the highly sought-after school district, Academy District 20.
Things to Consider
- Though commuting to anywhere other than the Air Force Academy can be tricky, families can access essential services like the commissary, military treatment facilities, and the BX located at the Academy.
Highlighted Areas
- Wolf Ranch
- Cumbre Vista
- Cordera
- Pine Creek
By the Numbers
- Population: 42,000
- Household Income: $96,284
- Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for local market analysis.
School Scoop
- In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
- Briargate is zoned in the highly sought-after Academy District 20 (D20). This district consistently ranks among the top 10% in the state. D20 offers a robust selection of extracurricular activities and athletics, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and Advanced Placement (AP) classes and even supports a healthy Home School Academy program (homeschooling is quite popular in Colorado Springs).
- District 20 offers eight high school options, including the popular Pine Creek High School and a unique Classical Academy.
Central
About
Central is your typical “downtown” district, complete with quaint shopping, limitless dining, and social options. The area is walkable and alive with festivals, markets, sidewalk dining, coffee shops—you name it! Colorado Springs is also making a good name in the micro and craft brewery world, and you’ll find most of them in Central.
Neighbors
Young couples and singles tend to gravitate to Central because of its vitality and active social scene. As with most urban centers, raising a family here is feasible, but space is sold at a premium price. You’ll still run across other military members if you live here, but not many military families live there.
Neighborhood Feel
Many neighborhoods are inhabited by the affluent of Colorado Springs (both old money and new). Still, areas like Patty Jewett and Shooks Run offer all the historic character and charm at more attainable price points. Condos, lofts, and townhomes are standard, and you can easily step out and walk to most of what you need. The historic district is called Old North End, and here you’ll find large Victorians from the 1800s.
Neighborhood Info | Central
Big Plus
- Markets, shops, local restaurants, and breweries are everywhere.
- This area is super walkable, with all the perks of living in a busy city.
- From here, you’ll have an easy commute to Fort Carson and a reasonable commute to Peterson SFB.
Things to Consider
- Central is an urban downtown, and the plusses and minuses of city life come with that. Do your research before settling on a home, and be sure you’re fully aware of the surrounding neighborhoods. Quieter pockets of homes are typically found farther north and away from the main highways (I-25 and CO 87).
- Your money won’t go as far here per square foot, but you’re trading space for the city living experience.
- Schools in other districts may be more desirable, but research which school you may be zoned to again. It is possible to “choice” into another district, but it’s by no means guaranteed.
- The HOAs and preservation societies tightly govern modifications to homes, if applicable, and can be overwhelming to deal with. However, they offer education programs and incentives for those who love an old house back to life! If you find yourself in the historic district, consider that stringent restrictions on renovations may prove prohibitive.
- Anyone wanting to work in Denver should avoid the central to southern sides of town as it will add at least 30 minutes to an hour to the commute.
By the Numbers
- Population: 78,000
- Household Income: $48,000
- Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for local market analysis.
School Scoop
- In Colorado Springs, you can "choice" into a different school in the district or another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
- The public schools in Central Colorado Springs are generally within Colorado Springs School District 11 or Cheyenne MountaiSprings'sDistrict 12 but always double-check with the district to be sure. Central Colorado Springs contains 28 schools. One of the most popular high schools is The Vanguard School, one of Colorado Springs's many tuition-free charter schools.
Highlighted Areas
- Patty Jewett
- Audubon
- Ivywild
- Tejon Street
- Shooks Run
- Knob Hill
East/Northeast
ABOUT
East and Northeast are situated between Central and Powers, which places them in ideal proximity to Peterson SFB. The farther north you go, the larger homes with more land and higher prices you’ll find.
NEIGHBORS
There are moderate military populations in both areas. East is a popular choice for those stationed at Peterson SFB and Schriever SFB, while Northeast is typically home to those commuting to the Air Force Academy. Families are found in abundance.
NEIGHBORHOOD FEEL
Most of the neighborhoods in the Northeast and East are older and charming. The 10- to 30-year-old homes are well-maintained with mature landscaping. Some areas are hilly, and some have views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range Mountains.
Neighborhood Info | East/Northeast
POINTS OF INTEREST
BIG PLUS
- This area is conveniently located between Academy Blvd. and Powers Blvd., two main roads with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options galore.
- You can stretch your dollar further here, but the price points tend to increase as you travel north.
- Two fantastic and highly sought-after school districts serve this area: Colorado Springs School District 11 and Academy.
District 20.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
- Some areas, particularly East Colorado Springs, can be hit or miss. We recommend not purchasing sight unseen in this area. Working with an experienced real estate agent can be of tremendous value in this market!
- Traffic can be heavy during peak times, and the lack of throughways adds time to commutes east and west. The main boulevards have generously placed traffic lights, and commuting south can be incredibly time-consuming.
BY THE NUMBERS
- Population 112,000
- Household Income $57,800
- Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for
SCHOOL SCOOP
- In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to
guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries. - East Colorado Springs has 18 primary and secondary
- Schools, including the Colorado Springs Charter Academy. Public schools in East Colorado Springs belong to Colorado
Springs School District 11. - Northeast Colorado Springs has 13 public schools., including Scott Elementary School. Public schools in Northeast Colorado Springs are in Colorado Springs School District 11 or Academy School District No. 20.
HIGHLIGHTED AREAS
- University Park
- St. Andrews
- Wagon Trails
- Old Farm
- Rustic Hills
- Village Seven
Falcon
ABOUT
If wide-open spaces are what you need, look no further. This quiet ranching community turned suburb is located northeast of Colorado Springs and is very attractive for families. Land and homes are very affordable here, and you can find homes with a lot of acreage. There are two central communities with mostly new construction that sit on a minimum of one acre. It’s farther out than Powers, so getting to Fort Carson is a hike, but it’s still reasonably close to Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, and even the Air Force Academy.
NEIGHBORS
The residents here are typically families and retirees looking to have more space and stretch their dollars. Small-town hospitality and community will make you feel right at home! If you aren’t surrounded by uniforms, don’t be surprised to see cowboy hats and spurs.
NEIGHBORHOOD FEEL
Most of the development in Falcon took off in the 2000s, so you can expect to find homes 10 to 20 years old—most houses are newer than that. The land is flat, and the wind can sometimes be quite gusty due to the lack of trees and topography. Landscaping is usually minimal because of the dry climate, and if you opt for prairie grass, it stays short and makes for low-maintenance yards! The newer, master-planned communities boast pools, recreation centers, parks, trails, fitness centers, and basketball/tennis courts.
Neighborhood Info | Falcon
POINTS OF INTEREST
BIG PLUS
- The opportunity for serious acreage is available. Homes and subdivisions have a “ranchy” feel to them, and if retiring and raising horses interests you, Falcon is where
you want to be! - Shops, restaurants, and entertainment options not found in Falcon can be easily accessed in the nearby Powers Corridor.
- Falcon is a 15-minute commute to Peterson SFB.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
- The area is considered a prairie with a view of the mountains but no incline. Those interested in the typical “Colorado experience” may be left wanting here, but the trailheads and outdoor recreation experiences are not far to the west.
- Because of how winter storms move into the area, Falcon typically sees a lot of snowfall—more so than Colorado Springs. This flat region also sees its share of tornadoes.
- Amenities are still taking root, so you may need to travel into town for things other than essentials, but for the most part, everyday shopping (Walmart, Safeway) is close by.
BY THE NUMBERS
- Population: 22,000
- Household Income: $97,900
- Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for a local market analysis
SCHOOL SCOOP
- In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
- Public schools in Falcon belong to District 49.
HIGHLIGHTED AREAS
- Meridian Ranch
- Woodland Hills
- Peyton
Powers
About
Powers is one of the fastest-growing areas in Colorado Springs, with new developments cropping up everywhere. A favorite of military families looking for affordable housing, both Powers and Markscheffel are conveniently located near Peterson SFB and Schriever SFB and are only 30 minutes from Fort Carson.
Neighbors
You’ll be amongst your military brothers and sisters in this area. This area is popular with military families and is sandwiched by two installations and with many affordable shopping, dining, and housing options. A constant influx of service members and their families keeps this area growing.
Neighborhood Feel
The neighborhoods that most families gravitate to are the newly constructed subdivisions. Some projects began ten years ago, but a recent real estate surge has prompted a ton of new development. You can still find older homes, but they will need some TLC. There are ample opportunities to personalize a new home, and desert topography provides the backdrop for most of the area.
Neighborhood Info | Powers
POINTS OF INTEREST
- The Powers Corridor shopping district has just about everything for day-to-day errands and weekend entertainment. Dining options are plentiful, and most national chains are anchored here.
- Cherokee Ridge Golf Course
- Colorado Springs Airport
Big Plus
- Rapid growth is flooding the market with newer, affordable housing options.
- You’ll find build-from-scratch opportunities in the newer planned communities.
- This area is very close to Peterson SFB, Fort Carson, and the Colorado Springs Airport.
Things to Consider
- Popularity paired with rapid growth brings lots of traffic and densely populated neighborhoods. There’s no freeway through the area, so the daily commute involves navigating busy streets and traffic lights.
- If you are looking for the “Colorado experience,” this may not be your best area. You can still see the Rockies in the distance, but the land here is dry, dusty, and very much like a desert. Most neighborhoods have very young landscaping.
- A significant amount of empty land is still to be developed, so expect the building to continue for years.
By the Numbers
- Population 59,600
- Household Income $88,000
- Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for local market analysis.
School Scoop
- In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
- The public schools in Powers belong to District 49, which includes Remington Elementary School, one of the most popular elementary schools in the district.
- Families could consider trying to “choice” into the nearby Academy District 20, especially when considering high schools. “Choice” applications are never a sure thing, so interview your schools and look at the overall picture when considering the schools here.
Highlighted Areas
- Spring Ranch
- Stetson Hills
- Indigo Ranch
- Banning Lewis Ranch
- Claremont Ranch
Southeast
About
Southeast is located between East Platte Drive and Milton E. Proby Parkway and lies immediately west of Peterson AFB/Colorado Springs Airport. While affordable housing that is very close to the southern military posts can be found here, there are some drawbacks for families with school-age children, as the school districts are not as popular. Some parts of the Southeast are older neighborhoods that need rejuvenation, so we don’t recommend committing to a property site unseen.
Neighbors
While families are plentiful in the area, the excellent options for schools in Colorado Springs prompt most military families to focus on other areas. This could be a place to consider for single service members who want to pocket BAH and are not as concerned with school selection and curb appeal.
Neighborhood Feel
This is an older area of Colorado Springs and is more urban. Unfortunately, most neighborhoods are poorly maintained, and some are downright dilapidated. You’ll find primarily multifamily dwellings (apartments) and some subdivisions with older ranchers and split-level homes. This area has struggled economically over the years, which is apparent in the upkeep and overall investment.
Neighborhood Info | Southeast
POINTS OF INTEREST
Big Plus
- Southeast’s proximity to Fort Carson, Colorado Springs Airport, and Pikes Peak Community College is ideal.
- There is a mall as well as options for shopping. It’s also easy to get to the Powers shopping district and Central from this area.
- Affordable housing can be found in Southeast, but we advise thoroughly researching the area first. Newer neighborhoods can be found between Hancock Expressway and Milton E. Proby Parkway, and there’s also a neighborhood called Barnstormers that’s worth looking into. Working with an experienced real estate agent can be of tremendous value in this market! We do not recommend buying or renting sight unseen here.
Things to Consider
- Homes can be in disrepair, and some areas are particularly rundown. If you find a home in good shape, it is still highly advised to consider its surroundings for the long-term outlook on your investment.
- There are numerous options for schools in the Colorado Springs area. There is a charter school in the Southeast, but due to the number of applications, there is no guarantee of admission. We advise you to research the schools zoned within the Southeast as you consider your options.
- Due to its proximity to Peterson SFB and the airport, noise from the base and air traffic is woven into daily life.
- Anyone wanting to work in Denver should avoid the central to southern sides of town as it will add at least 30 minutes to an hour to the commute.
Highlighted Areas
- Barnstormer
- Areas between Hancock Expressway and Milton E. Proby Parkway
By the Numbers
- Population 108,000
- Household Income $52,000
- Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for a local market analysis.
School Scoop
- In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or in another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
- Southeast Colorado Springs contains 19 schools, including one public high school and a charter high school. Schools in Southeast Colorado Springs belong to Harrison School District 2.
- James Irwin Charter Schools are the schools that most parents focus on in Southeast. The process for admissions includes an application, placement testing, and a lottery and/or waitlist when space isn’t available. If you plan to live in Southeast, we highly recommend getting a jump on applying to these schools.
- Harrison School District 2 contains quite a few Title 1 Schools. For those not familiar with this, Title I schools are schools that have been granted supplemental funds by the government based on a high number or high percentage of low- income students in attendance to help bridge the achievement gap. Any student zoned to a Title I school (there are many in Southeast) has the right to attend a higher performing school within the district. While families can certainly find school options to meet their students’ needs in this district, we encourage you to evaluate the whole picture and be sure to research and interview with the specific schools when deciding to purchase or rent in this district.
SouthWest
About
Initially anchored by the iconic Broadmoor Hotel and reinforced by the War Department’s decision to construct Fort Carson nearby, Southwest has been a sought-after area to live in since the late 1800s. Its beauty, proximity to the mountains, diverse housing options, great schools, and abundance of amenities are all factors that make this an area to check out.
Neighbors
Families and wealthy retirees are attracted to Southwest. Convenient access to Fort Carson and Cheyenne Mountain Complex draws military to the area, although you’re likely to find service members lower on the incline. Climbing in altitude equates to rising home prices in this affluent neighborhood. Dual-income families are common and mostly in professional occupations.
Neighborhood Feel
Southwest is a less densely populated Colorado Springs area characterized by a slower pace. Most homes were built between 1940-1980, so you’ll find a mix of mid-century ranches and ‘70s-style split-level homes. Most houses are well maintained and thoughtfully renovated, though if you’re looking for a character-filled “fixer-upper,” you can find those too.
Neighborhood Info | SouthWest
POINTS OF INTEREST
- Cheyenne Mountain State Park
- Manitou Springs
- The Broadmoor Hotel
- Cheyenne Mountain Complex
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – The only high-altitude zoo in the U.S.
Big Plus
- Stunning views, classic “old-world” ambiance, history, and culture abound here.
- Living in Southwest makes for an easy commute to Fort Carson and a reasonable commute to Peterson SFB.
- Access to I-25 makes for quick trips to big-brand shopping and amenities found slightly farther north. Fort Carson’s PX and commissary are also convenient.
- This area is close to Central Colorado Springs’ “downtown” district, and all it offers is breweries, quaint shopping, independent restaurants, markets, festivals, and more.
- Southwest boasts desirable schools and low crime rates.
- This is the closest and most popular area for those attached to the 10th Special Forces Group.
Things to Consider
- It’s tough to find a house under BAH, but not impossible. You may get less home for the money, but the perks of such a wonderful neighborhood are worth considering.
- There’s not much new construction, but there are ample renovation opportunities.
- Start your home search early! Inventory is low and moves quickly—often via word of mouth. It’s best to stalk the area before arriving and be positioned to move fast. Working with an experienced real estate agent can be of tremendous value in this market! ‘
- Anyone wanting to work in Denver should avoid the central to southern sides of town as it will add at least 30 minutes to an hour to the commute.
By the Numbers
- Population 37,700
- Household Income $68,700
- Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for local market analysis.
School Scoop
- Cheyenne Mountain School District 12 (D12) is one of the area’s most sought-after districts. It’s a much smaller district than the other powerhouses (Academy District 20 and District 11), and some find the intimacy of D12 a welcome addition to the district’s high test scores. Cheyenne Mountain School District 12 is the highest-ranked school district in Colorado.
- It should be noted that D12 does not operate a bus system for transportation to and from school. You are also not guaranteed to be assigned to the school you are zoned to within D12 because of elementary class size limitations. Your child could be assigned to any school in the district.
- In Colorado Springs, you can choice into a school in another district (space allowing), but D12 is difficult to choice into. The only way to guarantee admission is by residing in the district.
- Southwest Colorado Springs has 14 schools. Parts of Southwest Colorado springs are also served by public schools Harrison School District Two, in addition to Cheyenne Mountain School District 12. We suggest verifying your zoning directly with the district.
- The public schools in Southwest Colorado Springs are in Harrison School District Two or Cheyenne Mountain School District 12.
Highlighted Areas
- Broadmoor Glens
- Broadmoor Bluff
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7 Reasons You Should Consider Buying a Home
1. TAX ADVANTAGES
To encourage homeownership, the IRS has provided many tax breaks for owning a home. Credits may be available for specific home improvements, such as using clean energy or for qualified first-time home buyers. The way most homeowners see those advantages is through income tax itemization and deductions like mortgage interest and real estate taxes.
2. STABALIZE MONTHLY HOME COSTS
Owning your own house is one of the safest bets on stabilizing your monthly home costs. There’s no worry of rent getting increased significantly after each year of living in someone else’s home. Additionally, when you answer to yourself, there is no worry of landlord changes or unexpected lease termination.
3. HOUSE HACKING
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
4. Increased Privacy
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
5. Pets Are Welcome!
For those who choose to rent instead of buying, it can be extremely difficult to find rentals who allow for your
four-legged, furry friends. Landlords often require hefty pet deposits or place heavy restrictions on the number of pets and breeds they allow—if they will even allow pets. When considering quality of life, including beloved pets and the indoor and outdoor space available to them matters. Having the flexibility to include ALL members of your family as a homeowner is priceless!
6. Pride of Ownership
One of the greatest benefits of owning your own home is the pride of ownership that comes along with it. Not only are homeowners more inclined to take good care of their investment with routine maintenance and cleaning, but also they are free to make design choices ranging from hanging artwork on the walls, to paint colors, to customization of closets, electronics, and more. As military families who relocate frequently, having your home reflect who you really are feels important.
7. Safe and Stable Long Term Investment + Forced Savings
Owning a home has historically been one of the safest, lowest risk financial investments that tends to have long-term stability and success. As your home value appreciates and your mortgage balance decreases, what’s left is growing equity with an eventual paid off home. Making a monthly house payment is akin to setting aside a specific amount each month into a savings account—it’s a little difficult to access in the moment, but over time it can build into something significant in the form of equity.
FIVE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU IN YOUR RELOCATION PROCESS
Your PCS is underway!
The home buying and moving transition process has begun. Now what? If it feels like there are a million things to do, don’t fret because you don’t have to do them all yourself. During the relocation process, there are many service providers that can assist you in making your move a smooth one.
Consider these five resources to help you in the process
1. MOVING COMPANIES
Sure, the military offers transportation and relocation services, but many service members decide to coordinate the transfer of household goods themselves. Not only can you often earn money on the difference between moving costs and weight allowances, but you can be assured that you have more control over your belongings. Services that moving companies offer can range from delivery of boxes and pods for the “you-pack” model all the way to full-service logistics companies that will do all of the packing, loading, driving, and unpacking for you.
2. STORAGE
Whether you need to store your household goods for a few weeks until you close on your home or you decide that you have more stuff than square footage, storage companies abound. Sizes, conditions, and contracts vary widely so be sure to do your homework before you commit. Particularly in climates with extreme cold, heat, or humidity, it is important to consider using only climate-controlled storage to ensure the protection of your furniture and temporarily unused items.
3. TEMPORARY HOUSING
It is not uncommon for there to be a short gap of time during a military move between when you arrive at your new duty station and your new home being available to inhabit. No longer are hotels the only option for sticking out a few days or weeks during the wait. Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO) and Airbnb are great options to make you feel more at home while you wait for your home. In fact, why not take advantage of seeing your new city through the eyes of a tourist? Find a location near new local attractions and dining and enjoy a few days of getting to know the lay of the land.
4. USPS/IRS
Once you get settled in at your new home, it’s important that you alert agencies that will make sure your current and up-to-date address is on file. The United States Postal Service (USPS) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are two of the most important and by doing so, any important mail or documents in your name should be forwarded or sent along to your new address. It’s also a good idea to notify banks, credit card companies, and other debt collectors of a change of address. These days nearly all of these transactions can be handled online.
5. DISCARD & DONATE SERVICES
No matter how much you purge, toss, organize, minimize, or donate before you pack up the moving truck, it never fails that after you get unpacked on the other side there seems to be more stuff to declutter. Discard and donate services can help with this. Many are a phone call away and will happily come to your residence for a pickup. Others are structured where you simply drop off at a store. A lot of these services are charitable organizations and will offer you documentation for your own taxes based on your donation. It’s a win-win: you downsize by donating, and someone else benefits from your use of your items.
