Home Buying Tips for Military Families Moving to Jacksonville
As a full service real estate firm serving the military community here in Northeast Florida, we’re blessed to have sold more than hundreds of millions of dollars of real estate in the Jacksonville market. If you’re looking to buy a home, we can help.
Here are three important home buying tips for military families moving to Jacksonville.
1. Find a great lender
We want to make sure you’re connected with a great lender, because that is a key piece right now. In this market, your lender needs to be accessible and able to close quickly. Consider choosing a local lender over a national one. Sometimes, larger banks and national mortgage companies have so much volume that they can’t offer the same level of personalized service as a local lender who is willing to give you their cell phone number.
2. Explore military benefits
There are a lot of benefits that come with a VA loan, such as lower interest rates and no down payment. Be sure to explore this option when choosing how to finance your new home.
3. Hire an experienced real estate agent
When it comes to negotiating a good deal – especially in the current market – experience matters. Most of our staff is part of a military family. Whether it’s choosing the right neighborhood or needing to close virtually, we’ve been in your shoes. We know the market, we know the lenders, and we know how to help military families navigate both. We’d love to use our experience to help you find your next home.
We also have a free Home Buyer’s Guide you can access here.
Perks to moving to Jacksonville as a Military Family
Moving to Jacksonville as a military family offers several perks and benefits:
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Proximity to Military Bases: Jacksonville is home to several military installations, including Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Naval Station Mayport, and Blount Island Command. Living in close proximity to these bases can make commuting easier and provide access to on-base amenities and services.
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Military-Friendly Community: Jacksonville has a large military presence and is known for its military-friendly community. Many residents are affiliated with the military in some way, creating a supportive and welcoming environment for military families.
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Affordable Housing: Jacksonville offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in Florida, making it more affordable for military families to find housing options that fit their budget. There are also housing options available both on and off base to suit different preferences and needs.
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Quality Schools: Jacksonville has a variety of public, private, and charter schools, as well as specialized programs and resources for military-connected students. Families can choose from a range of educational options to find the best fit for their children.
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Outdoor Recreation: With its mild climate and abundant natural beauty, Jacksonville offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. Families can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and beachcombing at nearby parks, beaches, and nature preserves.
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Cultural and Entertainment Attractions: Jacksonville has a thriving arts and cultural scene, with museums, theaters, galleries, and performance venues showcasing local and national talent. Families can explore attractions such as the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, and the Museum of Science & History.
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Diverse Dining Options: Jacksonville offers a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From fresh seafood and Southern comfort food to international cuisine and food trucks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
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Community Support Services: Jacksonville has a variety of support services and resources available to military families, including military family support centers, counseling services, childcare programs, and recreational programs. These services can help families adjust to military life, navigate challenges, and connect with other military families in the community.
Overall, moving to Jacksonville as a military family offers a combination of affordability, community support, quality of life, and recreational opportunities that can make it an attractive destination for military personnel and their families.