PCS to Virginia Beach? Here’s the Housing Strategy You Need

A Permanent Change of Station, or PCS, can bring both excitement and stress. Moving to a new city—especially one as dynamic as Virginia Beach—means adjusting to new routines, schools, and surroundings while managing the logistics of buying, selling, or renting a home.

Fortunately, Virginia Beach is not just a common destination for military families; it’s one of the best places in the country to put down roots. With beautiful beaches, strong community ties, excellent schools, and a variety of housing options near major bases, this coastal city makes the transition easier than you might expect.

Whether you’re relocating to Naval Air Station Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story, or another nearby installation, a solid housing strategy will help you make the most of your move. Here’s how to approach your PCS to Virginia Beach with confidence—and how Reamie Tabin, local real estate expert and trusted ally to military families, can guide you every step of the way.

Virginia Beach’s real estate market is diverse and fast-moving. From oceanfront condos to suburban single-family homes, options are abundant, but the right fit depends on your lifestyle, commute needs, and long-term goals. Military families often prioritize proximity to base, good schools, and safe, family-friendly communities.

Neighborhoods such as Red Mill, Great Neck, and Kempsville are popular with service members due to their short commutes and strong community feel. Ocean Lakes and Lynnhaven also attract those looking for affordable homes close to shopping, restaurants, and parks. For those who prefer a quieter atmosphere, areas like Sandbridge or Little Neck provide a peaceful retreat without being far from city conveniences.

Working with a local agent like Reamie Tabin, who understands both the real estate market and the specific needs of military families, is invaluable. She helps clients identify neighborhoods that balance commute times, school districts, and resale potential—ensuring your investment supports both your present and future.

Timing is everything during a PCS move. Many military families arrive in Virginia Beach during the summer months, leading to heightened competition in the housing market. If possible, start your home search as soon as you receive your PCS orders. This allows for greater flexibility and a wider selection of properties.

If your schedule doesn’t allow for an early start, don’t worry—Reamie Tabin provides virtual home tours, detailed video walkthroughs, and remote contract signing options, allowing you to explore homes and make decisions from wherever you’re currently stationed. Her hands-on approach helps you stay ahead of the market, even from a distance.

Additionally, consider temporary housing options while you finalize your home purchase. Short-term rentals and furnished apartments near the base can bridge the gap between arrival and move-in, giving you time to make thoughtful decisions rather than rushing into a purchase.

One of the biggest advantages for military homebuyers is access to VA loans, which offer competitive interest rates, no down payment, and no private mortgage insurance. Virginia Beach has a strong network of lenders familiar with VA loan processes, making it easier to secure financing tailored to your situation.

However, not every property qualifies for a VA loan—certain requirements regarding condition, value, and occupancy apply. Reamie Tabin helps buyers identify homes that meet VA standards, avoiding potential issues that could delay your closing. She also partners with trusted local lenders to ensure the process is smooth from start to finish.

If you already own a home from a previous station, Reamie can also guide you through the process of renting or selling it while you relocate. Managing multiple properties can be complex, but with the right advice, it’s entirely manageable—and sometimes even financially beneficial.

Virginia Beach’s layout is unique: it’s a large city spread across both coastal and inland areas, meaning commute times can vary significantly depending on where you live. Morning traffic near key bases can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

For those stationed at Naval Air Station Oceana, neighborhoods like Salem, Ocean Lakes, and Lagomar are popular for their proximity. Families heading to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story might prefer Chesapeake Beach, Bayville Park, or Thoroughgood, which offer quick access to the northern end of the city.

Reamie Tabin uses her in-depth local knowledge to help clients evaluate commute routes and estimate realistic travel times, ensuring your home location supports your daily routine and work-life balance.

A PCS move brings a big question: should you buy or rent? The answer depends on your assignment length, financial goals, and personal preferences.

Buying can be an excellent choice if you plan to stay in Virginia Beach for three years or longer. Home values have shown consistent appreciation, and the city’s strong rental market means resale or renting out your home later can be financially rewarding.

Renting, on the other hand, may make sense for shorter assignments or those unsure about long-term plans. Virginia Beach offers many high-quality rental options, from modern apartments to single-family homes, making it easy to settle in quickly.

Reamie Tabin helps families weigh the pros and cons of each option, offering honest guidance based on your timeline, budget, and goals. Her priority is ensuring your decision supports your financial stability and peace of mind.

If you’re moving with children, schools will likely be a top priority. Virginia Beach City Public Schools consistently ranks among the best in Virginia, with strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities. Districts such as Great Neck Middle, Ocean Lakes High, and First Colonial High are especially well-regarded.

In addition to excellent education, Virginia Beach provides a wealth of activities for families—miles of beaches, bike paths, festivals, and local attractions like the Virginia Aquarium and Mount Trashmore Park. Many military families also appreciate the community’s deep respect for service members, visible in local events and military support programs.

When helping families relocate, Reamie Tabin takes school zones, commute times, and community amenities into account, ensuring each client finds not just a house, but a home that fits their entire lifestyle.

A PCS move comes with unique expenses beyond the purchase price of your home. From travel costs to temporary lodging, deposits, and storage, these expenses can add up quickly. The Military Relocation Assistance Program (RAP) and other military benefits can help offset costs, but planning ahead is key.

Before arriving, make a list of all potential expenses and research average utility and property tax rates in Virginia Beach. Reamie Tabin assists clients in budgeting for closing costs, inspections, and maintenance to ensure financial readiness throughout the process.

A smooth PCS move starts with the right real estate agent. Reamie Tabin is a Military Relocation Professional (MRP) specializing in helping service members and their families transition seamlessly to Virginia Beach. She understands the urgency of timelines, the flexibility required for long-distance moves, and the importance of finding a community that feels like home.

Her approach is hands-on and personalized. She offers guidance from day one, schedules virtual tours, connects clients with reliable local services, and ensures every detail is handled with care. Reamie’s goal is to remove stress from the process so you can focus on what matters most: your family and your next chapter.

Once you’ve unpacked and settled, take time to enjoy everything Virginia Beach has to offer. Spend weekends walking along the boardwalk, exploring First Landing State Park, or enjoying fresh seafood at local favorites like Waterman’s Surfside Grille. Get involved in community events and take advantage of the many programs designed for military families.

With its mix of natural beauty, urban convenience, and supportive community spirit, Virginia Beach is more than a duty station—it’s a place to thrive.

Whether you’re arriving in Virginia Beach for your first PCS or your fifth, having the right strategy—and the right agent—makes all the difference. Reamie Tabin, trusted Virginia Beach real estate expert, is here to help you navigate every step of your relocation with ease and confidence.

Visit reamietabin.com to connect with Reamie today and start planning your move. Let her help you find not just your next address, but a true home on the Virginia coast.