Hello, future homeowners in Thurston and Pierce County!
The dawn of 2024 brings with it the excitement and promise of new beginnings, especially when it comes to buying your dream home. Let’s explore why this year is the perfect time for you to dive into the real estate market.
Why Buy in 2024?
Technological Advancements: Modern homes now come with the latest tech amenities, offering convenience and an enhanced living experience.
Diverse Market Options: The real estate landscape in 2024 is diverse, providing a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets.
Community Development: Our local areas are flourishing with new amenities, schools, parks, and community programs, making them ideal for setting down roots.
Housing Forcast 2024
Embracing the Opportunity
Buying a home is more than a transaction; it’s an investment in your future. With favorable market trends and a wide array of properties available, 2024 is your year to find a place that resonates with your lifestyle and aspirations.
Your Path to Homeownership
As a seasoned real estate expert, I’m here to help you navigate the buying process. From identifying your perfect home to sealing the deal, I’ll be with you every step of the way.
Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Click [here] to explore your options and let’s find your new home in 2024!
Hello, I’m Guy DuVall, your trusted local real estate agent, and a fellow veteran who understands the unique needs of military personnel and their families when it comes to finding the perfect home near Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). Whether you’re new to the area or preparing for a PCS move, you’re in good hands. Allow me to be your guide to the vibrant and welcoming communities surrounding JBLM.
About Me: Your Veteran and VA Expert
As a veteran myself, I have a deep appreciation for the sacrifices and challenges that come with military life. I specialize in residential real estate near JBLM and pride myself on being a VA loan expert. I know the ins and outs of VA loans and can help you navigate the process with ease, ensuring you get the most out of your benefits. My mission is to make your transition as smooth as possible, so you can focus on what matters most – your family and your service.
Discover JBLM’s Surrounding Cities
Lacey: Family-Friendly Suburbia
Lacey is a family-oriented suburb with a strong sense of community. It’s home to numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and well-regarded schools. The short commute to JBLM makes it a convenient option for military families.
Olympia: Capital City Comfort
As Washington’s capital, Olympia offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. Its proximity to JBLM, top-notch schools, and cultural attractions make it a popular choice for military families looking for a balanced lifestyle.
Tacoma: Urban Vibes and Waterfront Views
Tacoma boasts a thriving arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and stunning waterfront views of Puget Sound. It’s known for its military-friendly atmosphere and offers a wide range of housing options to suit your needs.
Gig Harbor: Maritime Paradise
Gig Harbor is a picturesque maritime town with a small-town feel. Its scenic waterfront, charming downtown area, and excellent schools make it an attractive choice for those who want a coastal lifestyle.
Lakewood: Home of Heroes
Located just minutes from JBLM, Lakewood is known for its strong military community and is often referred to as the “Home of Heroes” due to its numerous Medal of Honor recipients. With its diverse housing options, excellent schools, and beautiful parks, Lakewood is a popular choice for military families looking for a warm and welcoming place to call home.
DuPont: A Quaint Gem
DuPont is a charming, close-knit community that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. Its small-town feel, well-regarded schools, and proximity to JBLM make it a desirable location for families. If you’re seeking a peaceful, family-friendly environment, DuPont may be your ideal destination.
Steilacoom: Historical Charm
Steilacoom, one of Washington’s oldest towns, is a picturesque waterfront community. Its historic charm, stunning views, and vibrant arts scene make it a unique place to settle down. With a short commute to JBLM, it’s an excellent option for those who appreciate a sense of history and a tight-knit community.
Spanaway: Affordable Living
Spanaway is known for its affordability and spacious properties. It offers a range of housing options, from single-family homes to acreage properties, making it appealing for those who value space and affordability. With JBLM just a short drive away, Spanaway offers a budget-friendly choice for military families.
Yelm: A Taste of Rural Living
If you’re looking for a more rural lifestyle while still being within a reasonable commute to JBLM, Yelm might be your answer. This friendly town is surrounded by picturesque farmland and offers a slower pace of life. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more rural setting.
University Place: Education and Elegance
University Place is known for its quality schools and upscale living. It offers a mix of contemporary homes and established neighborhoods, making it an appealing choice for families seeking a refined atmosphere.
Fircrest: Quaint and Charming
This small city exudes charm with its tree-lined streets and friendly community. Fircrest is a quiet, close-knit community that provides an ideal backdrop for family living.
Bonney Lake: Scenic Beauty
Bonney Lake is surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Pacific Northwest. With its numerous lakes, parks, and outdoor recreational activities, it’s perfect for those who love the outdoors.
Puyallup: Rich Heritage and Affordability
Puyallup is a city with a rich agricultural heritage. It offers a mix of historic homes and newer developments, all while maintaining an affordable cost of living.
Orting: Small-Town Charm
Orting, known for its small-town charm, offers a tranquil setting with stunning views of Mount Rainier. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter life.
Rainier: Rural Retreat
If you desire a more rural lifestyle, Rainier is a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by lush forests and open spaces, it provides a serene escape from the city.
Centralia: Gateway to Outdoor Adventures
Centralia is an ideal location for those who love the outdoors. It’s a gateway to hiking, fishing, and exploring the beautiful Cascade Mountains.
Chehalis: Historic Beauty
Chehalis is steeped in history, featuring preserved Victorian-era homes and a quaint downtown area. It offers a glimpse into the past while providing modern conveniences.
Roy: Affordable Country Living
Roy is a small, affordable community with a strong sense of rural charm. It’s perfect for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life.
Tenino: Quirky and Unique
Tenino is known for its charming downtown and unique sandstone carvings. It’s a town that embraces its individuality and offers a welcoming atmosphere.
Eatonville: Gateway to Mount Rainier
Eatonville is the gateway to Mount Rainier National Park, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a tight-knit community with a love for the great outdoors.
Your Next Step: Let’s Connect!
Your transition to JBLM should be a smooth and enjoyable experience. I’m here to guide you every step of the way, from finding the perfect home to navigating the VA loan process. Feel free to contact me or visit my website guyd.johnlscott.com for more information and to explore current listings in the JBLM area.
I understand the unique needs of military personnel and their families, and I am committed to helping you find the ideal home in a community that welcomes you with open arms. Welcome to the JBLM area – your new home awaits!
Relocating to a new city can be daunting, especially when you’re a military family. You want to find a city that not only accommodates your needs but also provides an environment where you and your family feel safe and at home. Fortunately, when relocating to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington, there are plenty of great towns and cities to choose from. Here’s a guide to help narrow down the options for you – the top 10 cities to live near JBLM for military families.
Lacey
Located just a few miles from JBLM, Lacey is a popular city for military families. This city is known for its family-friendly environment, excellent schools, and scenic parks. One of the advantages of living in Lacey is its affordable cost of living, which ensures that you’ll be able to make the most out of your military salary.
Olympia
Olympia is the capital city of Washington and is just a few minutes drive from JBLM. The city boasts a rich history and culture, making it a great place to explore. Olympia is also home to excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and job opportunities. However, the cost of living in the city can be slightly higher than in other nearby towns.
Tumwater
Tumwater is a small town located on the southern edge of Puget Sound. It’s a great place for military families who prefer a slower-paced lifestyle and a smaller community. The town is known for its excellent schools and a thriving business area, which offers job opportunities for locals.
DuPont
DuPont is an up-and-coming city that’s located just a few minutes from JBLM. It’s known for its affordable cost of living and friendly environment, making it a great place for military families to settle down. DuPont also offers a variety of recreational activities, including golf courses and hiking trails.
Yelm
Yelm is an ideal location for military families who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The town is located in the heart of a beautiful countryside and is perfect for those who love horseback riding and other equestrian activities. Yelm is also known for its great schools and affordable cost of living.
Lakewood
Lakewood is located just south of Tacoma and is a popular option for military families who want to be close to the base. The city has excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and a plethora of recreational activities such as parks and lakes. Lakewood also offers ample job opportunities for both civilians and military personnel.
Steilacoom
Steilacoom is a historic town that’s known for its scenic beauty and friendly community. This charming town is located on the Puget Sound and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and fishing. Additionally, Steilacoom offers good schools and a low cost of living, making it a great place for military families to call home.
Gig Harbor
Gig Harbor is a picturesque town located just a few miles from JBLM. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, stunning waterfront views, and quaint downtown area. Gig Harbor has excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and a tight-knit community that’s perfect for military families who want to feel at home.
Puyallup
Puyallup is a city located about 20 miles southeast of JBLM. It’s known for its welcoming atmosphere and affordable cost of living. The city has excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and a thriving business sector that offers job opportunities for military spouses and veterans.
University Place
Located just a few miles from Tacoma, University Place is a great option for military families who want to be close to the city but still enjoy a small-town feel. The city is known for its excellent schools, breathtaking views of Puget Sound, and a variety of recreational activities such as golf courses and parks.
Finding the right city to call home when relocating to Joint Base Lewis-McChord doesn’t have to be challenging. This guide provides you with the top 10 cities to live near JBLM, covering everything from an affordable cost of living and excellent schools to stunning views and a welcoming community. Whether you’re looking to be close to the base or prefer a smaller town, there’s something on this list for everyone. Good luck with your relocation, and we hope you find the perfect city to call home.
As a military family, you’re familiar with the challenges of transitioning to a new base every few years. If your next stop is Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM), you may need to decide between off-post or on-post housing. This is an important decision that affects everything from your budget to your everyday life. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together this guide about everything you need to know before you decide between off-post and on-post housing at JBLM.
The Housing Options Available on JBLM One of the advantages of living on post is that the military offers home models with ready-made leases. Unfortunately, this comes with some downsides, like availability. On-post housing often runs out of space, especially during peak seasons, leaving military personnel waiting months for a living space. This delay may be frustrating for some. Off-post housing, on the other hand, allows you to choose from a wider variety of properties. Working with an experienced realtor can help you narrow down your options to meet your family’s lifestyle and budgetary needs.
The Cost of Living on JBLM When deciding between off-post and on-post housing at JBLM, you need to consider the cost of living. On-post housing is typically more expensive, usually costing near 100% of your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rate. Off-post housing, on the other hand, allows you to pocket the difference between your BAH and rent, which can add up to significant savings over time. Living off-post also allows you to shop around for better deals on utilities, groceries, and other necessities.
The Commute Time to JBLM When living off-post, you must consider the commute time to JBLM, which can affect your quality of life and overall job performance. The traffic in the area can be heavy during rush hour, so you need to factor this into your decision, along with the distance between your home and the base. Living on-post allows you to avoid this issue altogether, but you’ll need to consider your access to services outside of the base. Living off-post is also ideal for families who want to explore the surrounding areas and amenities.
The Pet-Friendly Policies at JBLM Housing If you’re a pet owner, you need to consider the pet-friendly policies at JBLM housing. On-post policies can be strict, often limiting the size and breed of pets allowed. Renting off-post allows you more flexibility with regard to pet ownership. Many off-post homes are pet-friendly, and property owners are often more inclined to allow pets since the properties are their investment. Off-post living can often be a better option for those with pets.
Building Equity
On-post housing options available can be very limited, and you may not have the option to move into a home that meets all your requirements. Owning a home off-post comes with the opportunity to build equity. Using VA benefits, veterans can buy a new home with little to no down payment. This allows them to build ownership over time and generate profits through ownership.
The Amenities and Services Available on JBLM and Off-Post Finally, you need to consider the amenities and services available on JBLM and off-post. The on-post housing community is designed to cater to military families with services like community centers, playgrounds, and sports fields. Living off-post allows you to explore the wider community, including schools, churches, hospitals, and parks. Off-post housing also allows you more flexibility in choosing the amenities you need, especially for families with specific interests or needs.
Choosing between off-post and on-post housing at JBLM is a big decision that requires careful consideration. By considering the housing options available, the cost of living, the commute to JBLM, pet-friendly policies, and amenities and services, you can make an informed decision that meets your family’s needs. If you want to find the perfect home for your family, consider working with an experienced realtor like me. Contact me today to learn more or get assistance in getting you home.
Moving is already stressful enough, but add a quick sale to the mix and it can feel like your house is the bane of your existence. As a military family, we understand the pain of having to PCS on short notice and being stuck with a house that just won’t budge. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some tips and tricks to prepare your house for a quick and easy sale. Plus, we’ll throw in a few jokes to keep things light, because let’s be real, laughter is the best medicine.
First Impressions are Everything:
As much as we want to say that we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, unfortunately, homebuyers will judge your house based on its curb appeal. So, before listing your house, make sure to spruce up the outside. Mow the lawn, trim the bushes, power wash the exterior and add a pop of color with some flowers. And for the love of all things holy, take-down any tacky lawn ornaments. No one wants to see a giant garden gnome or flamingo. Sorry, not sorry.
De-Clutter and De-Personalize: As much as you love your family photos, they don’t love you. JK, we all love some good old-fashioned family memories, but when it comes to selling your house, you want buyers to be able to envision themselves in the space. So, pack away any personal mementos and declutter each room. This includes anything that’s taking up space or is not necessary for daily living. Donate items that are still in good condition and throw away any broken or unusable items. The rule of thumb is the cleaner and more minimalistic the better.
Deep Clean: Listen, we get it, cleaning isn’t the most fun activity out there, but it’s a necessary evil. A dirty house won’t sell, and it’s as simple as that. So, hire a professional cleaning service or deep clean yourself. This includes everything from the baseboards to the ceiling fans to the grout in your bathroom. Leave no surface untouched. And don’t forget to empty out the fridge and oven! Nothing is worse than a potential buyer opening up your fridge to find last week’s leftovers.
Find the Right Real Estate Agent: Your real estate agent is your go-to person during the home-selling process, so it’s important to find someone that’s a good fit. Look for an agent that has experience selling homes in your area and understands the current market. They should also be responsive, communicative and have your best interests in mind. And if you’re not meshing well with your current agent, don’t be afraid to shop around. This is a business transaction, after all.
Price it Right: Last but not least, price your house correctly. Your real estate agent can help you with this, but it’s important to do your research as well. Look at comparable homes in your area and see what they’re selling for. And don’t forget to take into account any repairs or upgrades needed for your home. Remember, a high price tag does not always equal a high sale price. Be realistic and reasonable.
We know PCSing can be a daunting task, but preparing your house for a quick and easy sale doesn’t have to be. Just follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to a sold sign in your front yard. Plus, think of all the money you’ll save on storage fees and having to haul all your junk with you on your next move. Cheers to a successful sale and happy PCSing!
Real Estate Blog by Guy DuVall 