PCS HOME BUYING RED FLAG CHECKLIST

What Military Families Need to Watch Out For

Before Buying a Home

Created by The Schultz Team | Military & PCS Home Specialists

🪖 WHY THIS CHECKLIST MATTERS

PCS moves are fast, emotional, and deadline-driven. This checklist helps military families avoid costly surprises and buy with confidence—even from out of state.

🏡 HOME & PROPERTY RED FLAGS

☐ Roof near end of life (can impact insurance approval)
☐ Home difficult or expensive to insure
☐ No wind mitigation or outdated insurance features
☐ Signs of poor drainage or standing water
☐ Flood zone concerns or unexpected flood insurance costs
☐ Unpermitted additions or conversions
☐ Older HVAC, water heater, or electrical panel
☐ Cosmetic updates hiding deferred maintenance

📄 CONTRACT & FINANCING RED FLAGS

☐ Using a lender unfamiliar with local VA requirements
☐ Insurance not checked before appraisal
☐ HOA rules or fees not reviewed early
☐ Rental restrictions that limit future options
☐ Feeling pressure to waive inspections
☐ Appraisal gap risk not discussed upfront
☐ Tight PCS timelines creating rushed decisions

📍 LOCATION & LIFESTYLE RED FLAGS

☐ Commute time not tested during peak traffic hours
☐ Proximity to base without considering daily congestion
☐ Nearby undeveloped land with unknown future plans
☐ Noise concerns (aircraft, traffic, commercial areas)

🔄 PCS-SPECIFIC RED FLAGS

☐ No clear exit strategy for future PCS
☐ Home unlikely to rent or resell easily
☐ Stretching budget to maximum approval
☐ Not planning for future repairs or maintenance
☐ VA benefit used without long-term strategy

✅ PCS BUYER PRO TIPS

✔ Always verify insurance first, not last
✔ Use a local agent who understands PCS timelines
✔ Work with a VA-experienced local lender
✔ Think beyond today—plan for your next PCS

🤝 WHY PCS BUYERS TRUST

The Schultz Team

We specialize in helping military families navigate PCS moves with clarity and confidence. From out-of-state showings to VA loan strategy and insurance checks before problems arise, we guide you every step of the way.

📍 Emerald Coast Experts
🪖 Military & PCS Specialists
🏡 Homeownership • Investment • Long-Term Strategy

📩 WANT HELP AVOIDING THESE RED FLAGS?

Download this checklist, then reach out anytime, we’re happy to walk through it with you and help you make the right move, not just a move.

The Schultz Team | EXP Realty
🌐 www.TheSchultzTeam.com