The Best Way to Find a Military-Friendly Real Estate Agent
by PCSgrades Staff - September 1st, 2022
Finding a knowledgeable, military-friendly real estate agent is sometimes easier said than done. For military families, it can be a challenge finding someone who understands the constraints of PCSing and military life.
Have you ever thoroughly researched an area only to have your orders changed at the last minute? Have you ever bought a house sight unseen, or while you and your spouse were in different time zones? Have you ever had only two or three days to house hunt? All these challenges are common to military families, but not all real estate agents may have solutions to handle them.
Understanding military life
A real estate agent who “gets” the military lifestyle can make or break your home buying or renting experience. They keep a pulse on the ever-changing market, understand moving all too well, and are passionate about helping others find not just a house, but a home.
Finding the right agent to fit your needs can help the home buying or selling process go smoothly.
Here are a few things to think about when looking for the perfect real estate agent.
Want to find a real estate agent trusted and reviewed by other military families? We've got you covered! Click here for access to our network of experienced, military-friendly agents who are ready to serve you.
Can you select your real estate agent?
Choosing a real estate agent is a big decision. Start with someone you connect with on a personal level. The agent should also understand military life and have experience working with military clients.
If you plan on using the VA loan, you also want someone well-versed to help you through the process. This loan is specific to military families, and not all agents are aware of its various benefits and demands.
When you work with a PCSgrades-affiliated agent, you are getting a vetted, reviewed, and experienced professional who is dedicated to helping military families find the perfect home. And you always get to choose which agent to work with; we'll never assign someone to you.
Agents who get the military lifestyle
When looking online, you may find an agent who has favorable client testimonials. But you have to ask yourself, “Can I trust this review?”
While a civilian might be very impressed with an agent’s skills at finding them the perfect home, they might be less equipped when you have just one weekend to look for a home in an area you aren't familiar with.
Before you choose a REALTOR®, ask yourself:
Will the agent understand that you may be selling the home in a mere two years and be able to find you a house with great resale value?
Is the agent familiar with the military lifestyle?
Can this agent help us find the right home, even if we aren't there to see it in person?
Does this agent have great communication skills? Do I feel comfortable asking them questions about the home buying or selling process?
One of the best ways to pick the best real estate agent is to rely on reviews from other military families. At PCSgrades, we publish honest reviews from REAL military families like yours. No one is ever paid for a review, so you can trust what you read.
Access reviews of real estate agents, lenders, moving companies, housing communities, and more on our website.
Real estate rebates for military families!
Many real estate websites, banks, or credit unions offer a rebate if you purchase a home through them. But not all rebates are created equal, and some states don’t allow rebates at all.
So before you choose an agent solely because of the rebate, ask a lot of questions. Are you purchasing in a state that allows rebates? How much of a rebate are you eligible for? Who is offering the largest rebate, and are there any strings attached?
Using the PCSgrades Military Real Estate Rewards program, you can connect with a top real estate agent who understands the unique needs of the military and veteran community and earn $350 to $7,500 cash back when you buy or sell a home (in states where allowed by law).
PCSing is stressful enough. If you are hoping to find an off-base rental or a home to buy in town, you want to make sure the real estate agent helping you is someone who understands the military lifestyle. A great way to find an experienced real estate agent is to start at PCSgrades.com and see what your fellow military families have to say.
