From Europe to Nocatee: A PCS Move That Needed a New Plan

What was the challenge?

The family was overseas, managing a move on military orders and trying to learn a market they couldn't visit casually. They needed clarity about financing, neighborhoods and timelines.

What did we do first?

I connected them with a local lender experienced in VA financing. After preapproval, we looked at homes and communities roughly 60 to 90 days ahead of their move. I sent options and personally filmed some homes so they could compare more than listing photos.

What changed?

They went under contract on a home while still overseas, and I helped coordinate the inspection process. That purchase ultimately fell through. We widened the search and considered Nocatee.

How did we use their visit?

The family kept a planned Jacksonville trip. We spent two days touring homes and comparing neighborhoods. After the first day, their preferred area became clear, so we focused the second day there. They made an offer and were under contract within approximately 24 hours — that refers to contract execution, not closing. They later closed on the home on a timeline that supported their relocation.

What should another relocating buyer take away?

Have your financing conversation early. Be clear about your priorities, but stay open to revisiting them. Build a team that can communicate across time zones, and keep a backup plan if the first contract doesn't work.