PCS orders to Fort Cavazos and a tight 90-day clock can feel overwhelming. You are juggling leave forms, movers, kids, and a new duty station while trying to buy a home you may not see in person. You are not alone. With a clear plan and the right local team, you can get pre-approved fast, shop remotely, and close on time.
This guide gives you a practical, step-by-step homebuying checklist tailored to Killeen and greater Bell County. You will learn how to use your VA loan, plan around Fort Cavazos gates, manage inspections and appraisals, and handle remote closing logistics. Let’s dive in.
How to use this checklist
This is a time-boxed plan that starts the day your orders land. Work through each block, use virtual tools when you cannot be here in person, and build in buffer time for appraisals or repairs. Keep your documents organized and communicate early with your lender, agent, and title company.
Local snapshot: Killeen and Bell County basics
Killeen sits next to Fort Cavazos, with nearby options like Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, Nolanville, Belton, and Temple. Commute time depends on your unit location and gate. Map your specific building and add buffer for shift changes or training traffic.
Several school districts serve the area, including Killeen ISD, Copperas Cove ISD, Belton ISD, and Temple ISD. Boundaries vary by address, so verify district maps and state accountability information directly with the districts.
Texas does not have state income tax, but property taxes are assessed at the county, city, and school district level. Expect property tax prorations at closing and plan to file a homestead exemption after you move in if the home is your primary residence.
For insurance, Central Texas weather can include hail, strong storms, and occasional flooding. Review homeowners coverage and wind or hail endorsements. Check flood maps for your property and confirm if flood insurance is recommended or required.
Texas closings are commonly handled by title companies with escrow teams, and title insurance is standard. You typically do not need an attorney to close, though you can engage one if you prefer.
Fort Cavazos resources like the Housing Office, Army Community Service, legal assistance, and finance can guide you on TLA, POA reviews, and PCS documentation.
90 to 61 days: Set your foundation
- Confirm PCS orders and target report dates. Save secure digital and printed copies.
- Contact the Fort Cavazos Housing Office and ACS to review TLA rules and on-post options if you plan to arrive before closing.
- Start financing immediately:
- For VA buyers, obtain your Certificate of Eligibility. Many lenders can pull it quickly.
- Gather LES, bank statements, government ID, Social Security number, and PCS orders.
- Ask lenders how they count BAH and confirm the appraisal timeline.
- Shortlist neighborhoods based on commute, price, and daily needs. Consider Killeen for proximity, Harker Heights for shopping access, Copperas Cove for southwest access, and Nolanville, Belton, or Temple for a quieter pace with longer drives.
- Choose a real estate agent experienced with Fort Cavazos relocations, remote showings, and power of attorney closings.
- Plan temporary lodging if needed. Look at on-post lodging, extended-stay options, or short-term rentals to bridge arrival and closing.
60 to 31 days: House hunt and make your offer
- Complete mortgage pre-approval and discuss rate lock timing with your lender.
- Begin remote tours:
- Request live video walkthroughs and virtual tours.
- Ask for seller’s disclosures, HOA documents, utility history, and any existing surveys.
- When you find the right home, submit an offer with inspection and appraisal contingencies.
- Arrange earnest money with the title company. Confirm instructions by phone to known contacts to avoid wire fraud.
- Schedule a home inspection with a local inspector. You can attend virtually while your agent is on site.
- If using a VA loan, request the VA appraisal early. Understand that Minimum Property Requirements can trigger repairs.
- If you plan to sign remotely, confirm your title company supports remote online notarization and e-closing in Texas.
30 to 15 days: Due diligence and prep
- Complete inspections, including general home inspection, WDI or termite, HVAC, and roof evaluations if the system or roof is older.
- Review inspection results and negotiate repairs or credits. Note that VA-required repairs usually must be completed before funding.
- Order or review the survey and title commitment. Resolve any encroachments or easement questions with the title company.
- Shop homeowners insurance and secure a binder for closing. Confirm wind and hail coverage and discuss flood exposure for the address.
- If you cannot attend closing, set up a limited power of attorney tailored to the transaction. Fort Cavazos legal assistance can review the language.
- Schedule utility transfers. In much of Bell County, electric service is delivered by Oncor with retail providers of your choice. Water and sewer are typically city-run, such as City of Killeen Utilities. Confirm internet and cable options for your neighborhood.
- If you have children, confirm enrollment paperwork, immunization records, and any transfer steps with your chosen district.
14 to 0 days: Close with confidence
- Work through your lender’s final underwriting conditions quickly. Keep documents handy for any last-minute requests.
- Conduct a final walkthrough. If you are remote, your agent can host a live video walkthrough.
- Confirm the closing date and time with your title company. Verify wire instructions by calling a known phone number and never rely on email alone.
- Arrange funds for closing per title company guidance. Plan for cashier’s checks or outgoing wires as directed.
- Lock in moving details: household goods shipment, temporary lodging checkout, pet travel, and any vehicle registration needs after you arrive.
- For remote closings, confirm your POA or remote online notarization appointments and ensure they meet Texas requirements.
Immediate post-close: First 7 to 30 days
- File your homestead exemption with the Bell County appraisal office if this is your primary residence. Check deadlines and forms.
- Activate or transfer utilities into your name and document meter readings if needed.
- Submit a USPS change of address. Update DEERS and contact information. Select local medical and dental providers.
- Review your mortgage payment schedule and escrow setup for taxes and insurance.
- Change exterior door locks and record appliance manuals and warranties.
- Complete school enrollment and share final documents with the district.
VA loan and BAH tips for PCS buyers
- Get your COE early and choose a lender experienced with VA loans and military income. Many lenders count BAH, but policies vary.
- Expect a separate VA appraisal that checks value and basic property standards. It is not a home inspection and may require repairs before closing.
- Typical contract-to-close timing for VA financing ranges around 30 to 45 days, depending on documentation, appraisal speed, and repairs.
- Review VA entitlement and funding fee questions with your lender. The funding fee can often be financed into the loan.
Remote buying logistics that work
- Power of attorney is common for military buyers. Use a limited POA specific to the real estate closing and confirm Texas requirements.
- Texas permits remote online notarization. Many title companies support e-closing, so confirm capability as soon as you go under contract.
- Prevent wire fraud by verifying instructions by phone with your title company and agent. Do not trust last-minute email changes.
- If a deployment or training cycle overlaps your purchase, set contingency plans with your lender and agent. If timing shifts, consider short-term rentals or property management options.
When new construction or renting makes sense
- If your ideal resale home is not on the market, new construction can align with a PCS timeline. You can secure a contract now and move in when the build is complete. Ask about builder timelines, inspections, and warranty coverage.
- If you need to arrive quickly, you can rent first, then buy when you know the area. This can be helpful if your report date is tight or if you are waiting on a specific school year.
Your local partner in Killeen
Buying near Fort Cavazos requires fast, organized moves and local know-how. You deserve a team that understands PCS timelines, VA loans, and remote closings. Our veteran-led, builder-broker approach means we handle virtual tours, new-build options, and smooth closings while keeping you informed at every step. When you are ready, connect with the Empyral Group to build your plan and get settled with confidence.
FAQs
Can I buy a home before I arrive at Fort Cavazos?
- Yes, many military buyers purchase remotely using virtual tours, thorough inspections, a trusted local agent, and a power of attorney or e-closing.
How long does a VA loan take from offer to close?
- With complete documents and a responsive seller, 30 to 45 days is common, though VA appraisals and required repairs can extend the timeline.
Which neighborhoods should I consider near Fort Cavazos?
- Killeen, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, Nolanville, Belton, and Temple are common choices, and your best fit depends on gate commute, budget, and amenities.
What insurance coverage should I review in Central Texas?
- Standard homeowners insurance plus wind and hail coverage is typical, and you should review flood risk for the address to determine if flood insurance is advisable.
Do I need to attend closing in person in Texas?
- Not always. Texas permits remote online notarization, and many title companies support e-closings or power of attorney signings for military buyers.
