Military Moves to Fort Rucker
Hi, I'm Alicia Rená Hicks. As a former military spouse, I know what it feels like when orders come in and suddenly everything has a deadline. I've been helping Wiregrass families since 2009, and I'm a Military Relocation Professional (MRP). Whether you're PCS-ing to Fort Rucker or getting ready to leave, I'm here to make your move feel a little less overwhelming.
PCS timeline tips
- Call me as soon as you have orders, or even before. The earlier we talk, the more options you'll have.
- Talk to a VA-approved lender early. Getting pre-approved and requesting your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) before you arrive saves a lot of time later.
- Line up your report date, move date and closing date. I'll help you plan a closing that fits your timeline so you're not stuck paying for temporary lodging longer than you need to.
- Work with your installation's transportation office. Knowing when your household goods will arrive helps us plan your move-in date.
- Get to know the area from a distance. I'll share what I know about Enterprise, Dothan, Ozark, Daleville and the other communities around post so you can narrow things down before you get here.
Buy or rent?
There's no one right answer, and I'll never push you either way. Here are a few things we'll talk through together:
- How long you expect to be stationed at Fort Rucker.
- Whether you'd like to keep the home as a rental if you get new orders later.
- Your monthly budget, including taxes, insurance and upkeep, compared with what renting would cost.
- How quickly you need to be settled, especially if you have kids starting school.
If renting makes more sense for now, I'll tell you that too.
VA loan guidance
Your VA home loan benefit is one of the best tools you have, and I'll help you understand how to use it. In general:
- No down payment for eligible buyers, as long as the sales price isn't higher than the home's appraised value. (VA doesn't require a down payment, but some lenders may.)
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI).
- A one-time VA funding fee may apply. It can usually be paid at closing or rolled into the loan, and some buyers, such as those receiving VA disability compensation, are exempt.
- It's a lifetime benefit that you can use more than once.
I'm not a lender, so I'll connect you with trusted VA-experienced lenders who can confirm your eligibility and exact costs. You can also read more on VA.gov.
Virtual showings
You don't have to be here to start shopping. I offer virtual showings, so you can tour homes by live video from wherever you're stationed. I'll walk every room, show you the yard and the street, and answer your questions honestly, including the things photos don't show.
Selling when you get orders
When orders take you away from the Wiregrass, I'll help you decide whether to sell or keep your home as a rental. If you sell, I'll help you price it right, prepare it for market and keep things moving, even after you've left town. I'll keep you updated every step of the way so you can focus on your next duty station.
Why work with a former military spouse
I've lived the PCS life myself: the short timelines, the long-distance house hunting and the stress of starting over. As a Military Relocation Professional, I understand military moves, VA loans and the communities around Fort Rucker. My job is to give you straight answers and make your move as smooth as it can be.
Let's talk about your next move
Whenever you're ready, I'd love to hear your plans. Contact me, find out What's My Home Worth?, Search Homes, or Meet Alicia.
Alicia Rená Hicks, Qualifying Broker / Founder / Owner, Prevail Real Estate, 1253 Rucker Blvd., Ste D, Enterprise, AL 36330. Office: 334-709-1491. Email: alicia@prevailrealestate.net
Prevail Real Estate · Alabama License #98421 · Equal Housing Opportunity.