Jennifer Dawn
REALTOR®
Your Military
Relocation
Professional
I am a dedicated REALTOR® with a passion for helping individuals and families, including military personnel, with their relocation needs in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. With my Military Relocation Professional (MRP) designation from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), I have the specialized knowledge and skills to assist with every aspect of the moving process.
A Wealth of Experience at Your Service Having helped numerous individuals and families, including military personnel, relocate to and from Hampton Roads, I am well-versed in the specific considerations involved in these moves. My extensive experience and deep understanding of the local real estate market enable me to provide exceptional service tailored to meet the diverse needs of all home buyers and sellers.
Comprehensive Resources and Unwavering Support I offer a wide range of seller resources designed to support individuals and families in their relocation journey, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition. My goal is to provide expert guidance so you can focus on what matters most—your family and your future.
Recognized for Excellence My commitment to excellence has been recognized through various awards and accolades. My service and recognition page highlights my dedication to providing top-tier service and my continuous efforts to stay at the forefront of the real estate industry.
Building Trust, Connection, and Community I believe that real estate is more than just buying or selling a home; it's about building trust, fostering connections, and ensuring that every client, regardless of background or circumstances, has access to fair and equitable housing opportunities. I am committed to being a reliable partner in your relocation journey, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. Let's embark on this journey together and make your next move a successful and enjoyable experience.
““Jennifer is an absolute rockstar! She went above and beyond for my wife and I during our home sale. She was always available, answered every question and advised us through the offer process. 10/10 would recommend, undoubtedly the finest realtor in Hampton Roads.””
““We could not recommend Jennifer more. She was helpful, attentive, knowledgeable and downright enjoyable. She was lovely to work with and helped us sell our house in 48 hours for over asking price. A wonderful experience!”
”
From Listing to Moving:
Navigating your move to Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport
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A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is a reality for many military families, often requiring a fast, strategic approach to selling or buying a home. This section provides an overview of PCS orders and how they impact real estate decisions.
📌 What is a Permanent Change of Station (PCS)?
A PCS is a relocation of an active-duty service member (and their family) to a new duty station. This move can be on short notice, making real estate decisions time-sensitive.
📌 How PCS Orders Affect Homeownership Decisions
Selling a home before moving: Should you list your home before your orders are official?
Renting out your home: Exploring the pros and cons of becoming a landlord.
Buying at the new duty station: How to time a purchase effectively.
Using VA Loan Benefits for PCS Relocations: Exploring VA loan portability and eligibility in different locations.
📌 Key Deadlines & Moving Timelines for a Smooth Transition
TMO (Transportation Office) Deadlines: Understanding your military move logistics.
Household Goods Shipment (HHG): Scheduling movers and what to expect.
Timing the Sale or Purchase of a Home: Creating a strategic timeline for a seamless transition.
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Preparing to List: Market Conditions, Pricing & Timing
Pre-Listing Home Preparation: Staging, decluttering, and repairs.
Pricing for a Fast & Competitive Sale: Evaluating market trends in Hampton Roads.
Timing the Market for PCS Moves: When to list based on your transfer date.
📌 Marketing Strategies for Maximum Exposure
Professional Photography & Videos – Highlighting the home’s best features.
Virtual Tours & Remote Showings – Attracting buyers who can’t see the home in person.
Targeted Digital Marketing – Reaching local and military buyers effectively.
📌 What to Expect with Military-Specific Home Selling Challenges
Selling Under a Strict Deadline: Navigating multiple-offer situations.
Potential VA Loan Assumptions: Can another military buyer assume your loan?
Coordinating Showings While Living in the Home: Tips for PCS families with kids and pets.
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Preparing to List Your Home
Tips and Resources:
Access detailed resources on Jennifer Dawn Real Estate's Seller Resources.
Prepare your home for sale with staging, repairs, and professional photography and Videography.
Timeline:
4-6 weeks before listing: Schedule a pre-listing consultation.
2-4 weeks before listing: Complete necessary repairs and improvements.
1 weeks before listing: Stage your home and take professional photos/Video.
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PCS relocations often mean buying a home sight unseen or within a tight timeline. This section walks through the home-buying process at the new duty station and how to make an informed decision.
📌 VA Loans, BAH & Military-Friendly Financing Options
Understanding BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) – How it affects affordability.
Using a VA Loan – Eligibility, funding fees, and benefits.
VA Loan vs. Conventional Loan – What’s best for your situation?
📌 Long-Distance & Virtual Home Buying Strategies
Working with a Gulfport Agent – How to find a reliable military relocation REALTOR®.
Virtual Home Tours & Remote Walkthroughs – How to evaluate homes from afar.
Making an Offer From a Distance – Strategies for negotiating remotely.
📌 Understanding the Gulfport Market: Rent vs. Buy Considerations
Housing Market Conditions – Current trends in Gulfport, MS.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Living Plans – Should you buy or rent?
Investment Potential – Analyzing future resale value before purchasing.
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Beyond buying or selling, a PCS move involves planning for transportation, storage, and temporary housing.
📌 Military TMO & Household Goods (HHG) Shipment Guide
How to Schedule Your PCS Move Through TMO – Deadlines and paperwork.
Personally Procured Moves (PPM) – Should you move yourself?
Understanding Weight Allowances & Moving Costs – What the military covers.
📌 Temporary Housing & Base Lodging Options
Navy Lodge & Temporary Military Housing: Booking accommodations at Gulfport.
Off-Base Short-Term Rentals: Pros and cons of renting before buying.
Hotel & Travel Reimbursement: What expenses are covered?
📌 Lease Break Considerations & Rental Options
Breaking a Lease Due to PCS Orders – Your legal rights under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).
Finding a Short-Term Rental at the New Duty Station – Avoiding long lease commitments.
Pet-Friendly Housing Considerations – Finding homes that accommodate pets & service animals.
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📌 Additional Resources:
➡️ Military Relocation Services
🗝 "Jennifer D Holds the Key" to a seamless PCS move!
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Before the Move
- Research Base Housing vs. Off-Base Options
- Compare the advantages and disadvantages of on-base vs. off-base housing.
- Consider factors such as commute times, amenities, and costs.
- Use resources like the Housing Service Center and Liberty Military Housing websites to gather information.
- Connect with the Relocation Assistance Program (Military OneSource)
- Contact Military OneSource for personalized moving checklists, tips, and resources.
- Utilize their 24/7 support and comprehensive tools to assist with your move.
- Website: [Military OneSource](https://www.militaryonesource.mil/)
- Phone: +1 (800) 342-9647
- Schedule Medical and School Record Transfers
- Contact your current medical providers and schools to request record transfers.
- Ensure all records are sent to the appropriate facilities at your new duty station.
- Use TRICARE's online tools to find new healthcare providers.
- Set Up Forwarding for Mail and Update Addresses
- Contact the United States Postal Service (USPS) to set up mail forwarding.
- Update your address with banks, credit card companies, subscriptions, and other relevant parties.
- Website: [USPS Mail Forwarding](https://www.usps.com/manage/forward.htm)
- Contact a VA-Certified REALTOR to Explore Housing Options
- Work with a REALTOR who specializes in military relocation to find the best housing options. I can refer you to a trusted referral partner in the area.
- They can provide insights into the local housing market, schools, and community amenities.
- Website: [VA Home Loans](https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/)
During the Move
- Oversee Packing and Loading of Household Goods
- Ensure movers handle your belongings with care.
- Keep an inventory of all items being moved.
- Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to track your shipment.
- Travel to New Location
- Plan your travel route and make necessary reservations.
- Keep important documents, medications, and valuables with you.
- Stay in contact with your moving company for updates.
- Temporary Lodging Arrangements
- If needed, arrange temporary lodging at your new location.
- Consider staying at the Navy Lodge or local hotels offering military discounts.
- Website: [Navy Lodge](https://www.navy-lodge.com/)
After the Move
- Unpack and Settle In
- Supervise the unloading and unpacking of your household goods.
- Verify that all items have arrived and are in good condition.
- Use your inventory to check for missing or damaged items.
- Register with Local Services
- Register your vehicle with the Mississippi DPS and obtain a local driver’s license if required.
- Enroll children in school and transfer any remaining medical records.
- Update your address with the USPS and other relevant organizations.
- Connect with the Community
- Attend orientation programs and community events to meet new people.
- Explore local amenities, parks, and attractions.
- Join social groups or clubs to build a support network.
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Helpful Tools and Resources
- Military OneSource
- Offers comprehensive support for your PCS move, including personalized checklists, moving tips, and resources.
- Website: [Military OneSource](https://www.militaryonesource.mil/)
- Defense Personal Property System (DPS)
- Schedule and track your household goods shipment.
- Website: [DPS](https://www.move.mil/)
- Plan My Move
- An online tool to create customized checklists and manage your PCS move.
- Website: [Plan My Move](https://planmymove.militaryonesource.mil/)
- MilitaryINSTALLATIONS
- Find information about your new installation, including local programs and services, maps, and directions.
- Website: [MilitaryINSTALLATIONS](https://installations.militaryonesource.mil/)
Relocation Resources
Property Search Near Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport
Megan Sanchez: Your Military Move Lender
💰 Cost of Living & BAH Affordability Calculator
Estimate your monthly affordability for housing in Gulfport based on your BAH, income, and expenses.
💡 Results:
🏡 Compare Your BAH: Gulfport vs. Other Bases
Select your pay grade and dependency status to compare BAH rates.
💡 BAH Comparison Results:
Moving to NCBC Gulfport? This guide provides everything you need to know about Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), rental and homebuying options, cost of living, and market trends in Gulfport and nearby cities.
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a stipend provided to eligible active-duty service members to help cover housing costs. The amount you receive depends on:
Your rank/pay grade
Your dependency status (With or Without Dependents)
Your assigned location (Gulfport-specific rates apply)
BAH rates are adjusted annually by the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO).
Cost of Living Comparison
Gulfport is more affordable than many other military locations. Here’s a quick cost comparison:
Category Gulfport, MS
Housing 22% Lower
Utilities 5% Lower
Transportation 10% Lower
For detailed cost comparisons, visit Numbeo or BestPlaces.