Military – WeVett

WeVett Waypoints: The Broadbents

Anna Luzader — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 20:18:15 +0000

What do you get when the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) brings together a tech-forward cadet and an international intel polyglot-in-training? Meet Gordon Broadbent and Sarah “FIGHT” Broadbent (Nickisch)—2013 United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) grads, founding members of WeVett, all-around power couple, and living proof that joining the Long Blue Line is just the beginning of an unforgettable life.

For Sarah, a conversation around the dinner table is what changed her trajectory. “I had started learning Arabic in high school and wanted to continue in college,” she recalls. “My dad randomly said at the dinner table the fall of my senior year, ‘How about a military academy?’ It was one of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever received.” However, her time as a cadet wasn’t without challenges. When thinking back on her first day, Sarah says, “I just remember looking in the mirror at the end of the day—headband pulling back short hair, BCGs, and ABUs that were way too big—smiling and thinking, ‘What did I get myself into?’”

Gordon, on the other hand, had a window into the USAFA life before joining, and luckily inherited tips and tricks from his brother who attended the Academy before him. That was enough to brace him for what was coming. “I was just thankful to be there,” Gordon said. “My first day was exactly what I expected. Intense, but exciting.”

Their USAFA years were filled with the usual chaos, camaraderie, and character-building, but they also laid the foundation for an incredibly promising career. Today, Gordon serves as an active duty acquisitions officer (63A & 62E) and is currently taking part in a Department of the Air Force–sponsored Executive Development Program, spending three years at Microsoft while simultaneously pursuing a PhD. Sarah is a Drill Status Guardsman for the Oregon Air National Guard and the Director of Intelligence for the 173rd Fighter Wing. She’s also the founder and COO of ValkyrieTek, a consultancy focused on cyber and intelligence training solutions.

While currently based in Seattle, which they describe as “epic,” the Broadbents are already looking forward to their next chapter at Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell AFB. And while their careers take them all over the globe, the pair has also found ways to give back wherever they may be. “We’re proud to be from USAFA, and strive to serve and pay it forward,” they share. “We’ve recently taken up a few opportunities to volunteer our time by getting involved in the new NextGen Advisory Council to the USAFA Association & Foundation and leading the Air & Space Forces Association Greater Seattle Chapter.”

For the Broadbents, giving back is just one way of staying connected to the community that shaped, and continues to shape, so much of their story. Their closest friendships, their mentors, even their extended family all trace back to the Long Blue Line. “USAFA provided us the opportunity to not only meet each other, but also paved the way for one of each of our siblings to marry incredible people,” Sarah says. Jonathan (’12) and Steph (’14) Broadbent and David (’13) and Sami (Nickisch) Shealy are all part of both the extended Broadbent family tree and the USAFA family, and their collective crew of kids has added more fun to the mix.

It was this strong sense of community that carried them through one of Sarah’s most defining transitions in 2023 when their daughter Ivy was born. “I knew I wanted to prioritize being home with her, but leaving a very promising active duty career was still challenging,” she shares. “I am fortunate to have so many incredible mentors and friends from USAFA and across my career that helped me navigate that crossroad!”

These days, returning to the Academy for events like the WeVett tailgate carries a deeper kind of meaning. It’s a return to the beginning; a full-circle moment where they get to reflect on how far they’ve come, while sharing the lessons of their journey with the next generation.

When asked what they’d say to the cadets or recent grads dropping by the tailgate, they don’t hesitate: “Try new things while you’re a cadet. Engage with your professors… it’s incredible how much they care!” And for the Broadbent’s final piece of advice, they implore, “Enjoy all that CO has to offer, but especially the snowboarding.”

WeVett Waypoints: Maj. Andrew Gorospe

Anna Luzader — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 17:41:13 +0000

Major Andrew Gorospe didn’t grow up with dreams of becoming a cadet. In fact, he’ll be the first to tell you, “My path to the Academy was a bit unconventional.” As someone raised outside of the military community, USAFA wasn’t even on his radar until his senior year of high school when a mentor on his travel soccer team first made the connection. After attending Appointee Weekend, Gorospe ran with it. “Given my interest in computers and computer programming, the Air Force Academy stood out as the best fit for what I wanted to study and the kind of career I wanted to pursue.”

That career has since come to fruition while also bringing him full-circle. After graduating in 2013 with a Computer Science degree, Gorospe and his family have moved across the world and back again. Today, Major Andrew Gorospe serves as Deputy Commander of the 62nd Cyberspace Squadron at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, just 25 miles away from where his career journey first began.

Like many grads, Gorospe describes the Academy as “a great place to be from,” but also admits that he had no idea what he was getting into, and in retrospect, maybe that was a good thing. “The first day was a shocker,” he states. “Basic training turned out to be a mental, physical, and emotional challenge unlike anything I had anticipated.”

Still, Gorospe doesn’t see basic training as his one pivotal moment at the Academy. Instead, it was steady access to the community that helped mold him. “One of the most significant lessons [I learned] came from observing both good and bad leaders at the Academy, some of which were through friendship and some of which were through military chain-of-command,” he shares.” I had never considered myself much of a leader before attending USAFA. Even through my officer years, leadership has been a progressive journey, but it was at the Academy where I first truly took it on.”

That foundation proved critical as his career progressed, and especially as his family navigated one of their greatest challenges yet–a PCS from Write-Patterson AFB in Ohio to Joint Force Command Brunssum in the Netherlands.

“It was easily the hardest transition,” Gorospe said. “Selling our home while planning an international move could’ve been overwhelming. But Evan at WeVett made it monumentally less stressful than it could have been.” Once overseas, the military community continued to show up. “That support system helped us find our footing and create a new normal.”

Now back stateside, Gorospe finds himself back in familiar territory. Each return to the Hill brings back old memories while creating new ones. This is especially true during WeVett Tailgates, which have now become a family affair. “It’s definitely nostalgic—both being on the Academy grounds and going to the tailgate, except I suppose these are at my own free will!” he jokes. But on a more serious note, “Being able to share a little bit of my past with my family and give them a window into that chapter of my life? That means a lot.”

These are the moments where past and present collide. The Academy friendships that started in the crucible of the Doolie days have outlasted continents and careers. “Some of my closest relationships have lasted over a decade,” he says. “Whether classmates are still in service or not, the bond doesn’t really fade.”

Even meeting USAFA grads he didn’t know during school comes with its own instantaneous connection. “Regardless of class year, being a USAFA grad means you start the relationship with a shared experience,” Gorospe says. “That usually leads to mutual understanding and a baseline of trust.”

And maybe that’s the heart of it, knowing that no matter how far you’ve gone, there’s still a place where people just get it. Where the experiences make sense. Where you can swap war stories. Where the past feels both distant and near.

That’s what WeVett Waypoints is all about, celebrating the winding journeys that begin at the Academy, pass through countless zip codes, and circle back with new stories, new roles, and new roots. It’s about how “home” evolves from a dorm room to a duty station to a tailgate.

As we gear up for another game day at Falcon Stadium, it’s stories like Gorospe’s that remind us where we started, how far we’ve come, and what it means to come home again.

WeVett Waypoints: Captain Kitt Regier

Anna Luzader — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 21:29:29 +0000

Home isn’t just where you land, it’s also the community that helps you take off. And for many in the WeVett family, including co-founder Evan Kaufman, the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) forms a cornerstone of that community. Whether your path after graduation is administration or aviation, the Academy’s culture and commission leaves a lifelong impact

As we head into our fourth annual WeVett Tailgate at the Air Force Academy, we’re taking a look back at where it all began with our new series, WeVett Waypoints.

A waypoint is a marker along your path – a moment, a milestone, or a connection that shapes the direction of your life. In this series, we’re celebrating the moments that helped our community members find, create, and carry home wherever their journey has taken them.

First up is Captain Kitt Regier, a 2021 USAFA grad whose journey has taken him from Kansas to Colorado and far beyond. Like many Academy alum, Regier’s story isn’t just about reaching new heights. It’s about perseverance, possibility, and most importantly, people.

When Capt Kitt Regier graduated from the Academy in 2021 with a degree in Economics, he left with more than academic excellence and ambition. He packed his bags for pilot training with a fresh perspective and an ever-expanding network of Air Force family.

Originally, it was the unique experiences, academic rigor, and impressive alumni network that attracted him to USAFA. “Most of all, I wanted to be a fighter pilot and knew that the Academy would provide the best chance of doing just that,” Regier states. “Oh, and I love Colorado, so the location was a huge plus!”

His plans to fly fighters has since come to fruition. Now an F-35 pilot at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom, Regier is quick to point out that the real impact of USAFA doesn’t always hit you while you’re marching across the terrazzo. “I think the real impact to my own perspective came after graduating,” he says. “You look back and realize how unique the Academy was, how impressive your peers were, how compelling the classroom could be, and how much fun you had (whether you realized it at the time or not).”

This is what it means to be an Academy grad. It’s not just about personal achievement, it’s about carrying the values and relationships you’ve formed during your four years in Colorado Springs into each new chapter.

For Regier, some of those chapters were more challenging than others. “Doolie year kicked my butt academically, physically, and emotionally,” he admits. But Regier rose to the occasion. “After that first year, I found my footing, caught up to the intensive pace, and came out the other side a much stronger, well-rounded person with countless friends.”

Friends found in these circumstances are both rare and invaluable. Regier notes, “There is an immediate sense of trust and a unique connection that only exists between a few people who have experienced the challenge, chaos, and camaraderie of the Air Force Academy.”

Now, as he puts it, his USAFA community shows up in all corners of the globe. “As a USAFA grad, I know that I’ll have a good friend essentially anywhere I find myself around the world. That is so unique and can’t be said for the other commissioning sources.”

It’s part of what makes events like the WeVett Tailgate so meaningful. To Academy grads, coming back to campus, even if it’s just for a ballgame, marks a return to their prior stomping grounds. It’s a reminder of lessons learned and a glimpse back at who stood beside you when you were becoming who you currently are.

“Seeing old faces, shaking new hands, grabbing coffee and a burrito before the game, that’s the good stuff,” Regier says. We’d have to agree. Every year, the WeVett Tailgate does double duty, serving as equal parts pre-game party and mini Academy reunion. When asked who he would love to see at the event this year Regier says it’s “gotta be my boy Caleb Ferguson. We roomed together Firstie year. A million good memories. I’d tap him on the shoulder with a Fireball shot and get the party started.”

As for the next generation of cadets who find themselves in the place Regier once was, this is the advice he would give.

“Work hard, be a bro, and savor the moment. Your lifelong friends live just down the hall. You’re at a world-class institution, and people pay a lot of money to live somewhere with comparable views. Carpe diem. Get involved in something that interests you, take a second to stare at the mountains on a crisp morning, talk to someone new over a cup of Mitch’s coffee, have a beer with a bro/broette at HAP’s, study hard and play harder!”

Bridging the Readiness Gap: Reflections from AFA 2025

Anna Luzader — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:28:50 +0000

Each year, thousands gather for the Air and Space Force Association’s (AFA’s) annual Air, Space, & Cyber Conference. This year’s event was no different, drawing over 20,000 Air Force, Space Force, and industry professionals from September 22-24 to hear from top brass, share emerging technologies, and connect with colleagues. For the military community, AFA 2025 wasn’t just a quick trip to National Harbor, it was three days of exclusive access to the conversations shaping the future of air and space power. But where does a home loan and realty company like WeVett fit into this world of strategy and innovation?

Mardie Marqueze knew the answer on day one. As WeVett’s Realty Experience and Sales Director, she walks hand-in-hand with active-duty service members and Veterans during their homebuying journey, connecting clients with military-specialized realtors, answering questions, and offering support at every home buying decision point. She not only understands mission readiness from a spouse’s point of view, but sees firsthand how building a strong homefront can contribute to better mental, financial, and career health. So, as she walked through the conference room doors on that first day, it was easy to see where AFA’s key message met WeVett’s mission–strong families mean strong Forces.

We sat down with Mardie to talk more about her time at AFA–what she saw, shared, and learned–and how WeVett is stepping up to strengthen the future for military families.

Q: Can you describe AFA to those who aren’t familiar, and tell us what the day-to-day looked like?

AFA is an annual event hosted by the Air and Space Force Association where industry leaders come together to discuss anything and everything connected to advancing the mission. For attendees, it’s a pretty major event. There’s the main keynote sessions delivered by speakers including the Honorable Troy Meink, Secretary of the Air Force, and Gen. David W. Allvin, Chief Staff of the Air Force. And there’s also several breakout sessions covering everything from leadership and family to defense systems and technology. It’s a great place to network with everyone from top generals to tech innovators.

In the exhibition hall, you can find big names like Boeing and Rolls‑Royce as well as leading-edge tech companies. One company even had a robot playing fetch. I wasn’t expecting to see that on a Tuesday. But there’s also a strong spouse and family component, which is very aligned with WeVett’s mission.

Q: Was there a specific session, speaker, or conversation that stuck out to you?

I really enjoyed the session with General David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and his wife Gina Allvin in the “United Forces & Families: Senior Leaders’ Perspectives” session. It was an honest conversation around balancing mission demands with family needs, which is important for sustainability. I appreciated each contributor’s authenticity and relatability. Also, hearing senior leaders discuss housing and PCS challenges highlighted how crucial it is to have community during tough seasons. To me, it confirmed the importance of WeVett’s mission, especially our 20‑Year Client Vision.

Q: How does AFA impact active-duty military and their families?

One thing that really stood out to me at this year’s event was that throughout the many keynote sessions and breakouts, I heard a few common threads–especially when addressing challenges.Whether it’s a new airman just starting out their career or a seasoned general with several years under their belt, many of the challenges are the same: PCSing, housing, and balancing mission with family life. Providing support structures for these difficulties is also central to the success of our forces.

This year, it was really cool to see those topics discussed on such a big stage. There was even a MilSpouse Link Up Lounge that provided a designated space for military spouses to exchange ideas and share resources, further emphasizing that readiness encompasses the whole family. And this ties into WeVett’s place in the military community, since our role as trusted PCS partners positions us to walk with families through some of life’s most stressful transitions.

Q: What was your biggest takeaway from AFA 2025?

I left with a deeper understanding of how sustained family support equals mission readiness. Families are a strategic advantage when supported well, especially throughout challenging seasons like deployments and moves. Hearing several speakers connect home stability and community to overall Force health made me think about how WeVett can bridge gaps while continuing to build our team as true advocates rather than purely service providers.

Q: And just for fun, what was your favorite moment or memory from this year’s event?

First, I have to give a shoutout to the MilSpouse LinkUp Lounge for the free massages. That was amazing. But on a more serious note, it was great to reconnect with friends. When you’re living the military life, long-distance friendships are the norm. So, it’s a big treat to see so many people you’ve lived and served beside at once, especially those from my husband’s early career. It’s like a big family reunion.

I also loved getting to connect with other active-duty service members, their families, and military-focused companies, and have meaningful conversations around WeVett’s services. As the Realty Experience and Sales Director, it’s always fulfilling to share about why WeVett exists. Our mission is to provide our clients with the highest quality realty and VA loan services, allowing them to make sound financial decisions throughout the homebuying process. It’s a mission I really believe in, and I was honored to be able to bring that WeVett passion and enthusiasm to AFA 2025.

Partnership Beyond the Dotted Line

AFA 2025 served as a powerful reminder that true mission readiness is multifaceted. That’s why military families deserve more than one-size-fits-all solutions, they deserve partners who understand their journey. This partnership forms the epicenter of our ethos, fueling our efforts to show up in new ways.

AFA 2025 has come and gone, but one thing remains clear: what we call “home” reaches far beyond four walls. As such, WeVett is proud to stand with active-duty service members and their families not only throughout their homebuying journey, but as long-term advocates for building community, financial security, and a future worth fighting for.

Ready to start building? Connect with WeVett today.

VA Loan Homebuyer Checklist

Savannah Stephens — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 18:21:35 +0000

Buying your first home with a VA loan can feel overwhelming, but with the right plan, it’s a smooth and rewarding process. This checklist will walk you through every step of the VA home loan process – from confirming eligibility to settling into your new home.

Before You Start the Home Search

☐ Confirm VA loan eligibility

Most active duty, reserve, guard, and veterans qualify:

Active Duty: 90 consecutive days of service
Reserve/Guard: 6 years of service
Surviving spouses may also be eligible under certain conditions

Read more about va eligibility specifics.

☐ Request your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Your lender can request this online in minutes (if they don’t know how to do this, you’re working with the wrong lender)
Proves your VA loan entitlement to lenders

☐ Check your credit score

Aim for 620+ for most lenders – and remember, the VA doesn’t set the standard, it is lender specific
You can pull your score annually for free from each of the three credit bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com

☐ Calculate your housing budget

Use our military mortgage calculator or ask the WeVett team for help
Consider BAH (Use the BAH calculator), additional income, and monthly expenses

Find a VA Loan Lender

☐ Schedule a consultation call

Called the Pre-Check Call, we’ll walk through your eligibility, loan options, and outline the full process

☐ Get pre-qualified or pre-approved

Pre-qualification: Quick estimate based on the basic information you tell us on the phone
Pre-approval: Underwriter reviews your finances in depth; a pre-approval is considered much stronger when making offers

☐ Discuss zero-down and VA funding fee exemption

Most VA buyers qualify for 0% down with no Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Veterans with a disability rating of 10% or greater may be exempt from the VA funding fee

☐ Explore dual entitlement if you’re a dual-military couple

You may be able to combine VA entitlements or preserve one for future use

☐ Gather required documents

LES or most recent pay stubs (for you and your partner)
Government-issued photo ID
Last two months of bank statements
Statement of Service (Active Duty) or DD-214 (separated)
W-2s or tax returns from the last 2 years (if applicable)

Start Your Home Search

☐ Partner with a military-friendly real estate agent

Ask WeVett Realty to connect you with a military PCS expert
Make sure you choose someone who understands PCS timelines and military needs

☐ Stick to your pre-approved price range

Avoid surprises or delays during underwriting
Remember to factor in closing costs

☐ Consider long-term lifestyle factors

Commute to your military installation, schools, crime activity, shopping, and healthcare access
Think about resale value or future rental potential if you PCS

☐ Budget for ongoing expenses

Include property taxes, HOA dues, utilities, home maintenance, etc.
Escrow accounts can help spread out these costs

Make an Offer & Close on Your Home

☐ Submit an offer through your agent

Include your VA loan pre-approval to strengthen your offer
Don’t be afraid to negotiate seller concessions or closing costs (your real estate agent is your go-to resource for this!)

☐ Schedule a VA appraisal

Ensure the property meets VA’s Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)
Confirms fair market value and habitability (this is not a home inspection)

☐ Order a full home inspection

Strongly recommended!
Helps you spot any major issues with the home before finalizing the deal

☐ Lock in your interest rate

Rates can fluctuate daily, locking a rate in secures your monthly payment

☐ Review loan disclosures and closing details

Compare Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure for accuracy
Double-check interest rate, fees, and total costs

☐ Sign and close!

Bring your ID, review documents, and receive your keys (unless you are closing virtually – your loan officer will explain your specific process if you are unable to close in person)
Congratulations, you’re now a homeowner!

After Closing

☐ Set up utilities and update your address

Set up your electric, water, internet, trash, and mail forwarding/change of address
Update Tricare, DFAS, MyPay, and your military installation contact info

☐ Store all loan documents safely for future refinance opportunities

Keep digital and printed copies of the deed, mortgage, and VA paperwork
You may need them again for refinancing or future loans

Ask WeVett Home Loans to track your refinance opportunities using the Rate Radar!

☐ Know your loan servicer

They’ll handle your monthly payments and tax/insurance escrow

Note: Your loan originator is the lender or mortgage professional who helps you secure the VA loan. They guide you through the application, approval, and closing process. Once you close, your loan servicer takes over. The servicer is the company you send your monthly mortgage payments to, and they manage your escrow account for taxes and insurance. Sometimes the loan originator and servicer are the same company, but often your loan will be transferred to a separate servicing company after closing.

☐ Start building long-term equity

Consider how long you’ll stay and what comes next—live in, rent out, or sell
You can use your VA benefit again in the future!
Ask us about our 20-Year Client Vision of helping you have a paid for home by military retirement!

VA loans are one of the most powerful benefits you have with zero money down, no PMI, and flexible guidelines. Our mission is to make it easy, fast, and transparent for military families to own a home you love.

Questions about the process? Talk with one of our VA loan experts –> 316-669-5272

Maximize VA Home Buying Power as a Dual Military Couple

Savannah Stephens — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 14:39:00 +0000

If you and your partner both bring in a steady paycheck, whether you’re both wearing a military uniform or working full-time jobs, you’re already in a strong position when it comes to buying a home. But the truth is, just having two incomes doesn’t automatically mean you’re getting the most out of your buying power.

Here’s how to make those dual incomes really work for you:

1. Combine Incomes Strategically to Maximize VA Loan Approval

When lenders assess what you can afford, they’ll look at your combined debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. If one of you has more stable or higher income, you might qualify for better loan terms. Use this to your advantage when shopping for a mortgage option. Make sure you compare VA loans, conventional loans, and other programs based on your unique income blend.

Pro Tip: VA loans often allow a higher DTI ratio than conventional loans, which can be especially helpful for dual military families.

2. Use Dual VA Loan Entitlements to Increase Buying Power

For dual military couples, you may both be eligible for VA loan entitlements. That opens up strategic options, including:

Co-borrowing with split entitlement to buy a more expensive home with $0 down
Preserving one partner’s VA entitlement for a future home or investment property
Using one entitlement while the other rents out a previous VA-financed home

Understanding how to structure your VA loan entitlement usage can increase flexibility now and in the future.

3. Budget Based on One Income, Buy Based on Two

Set your budget as if you’re living on one income, or one Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). This gives you breathing room for any deployment-related income gaps, unexpected PCS orders, or job changes. Then use your combined incomes to qualify for a higher VA loan amount or better home options. Financial stability and more flexibility, yes please.

4. Pay Off Debt Together, Fast

Two incomes = faster debt payoff. Focus on knocking out high-interest debt together, such as credit cards, personal loans, or auto payments before house hunting. Be strategic about this and talk to a VA loan expert about which debts have the most potential to improve your DTI and lead to a better interest rate.

Pro Tip: Avoid paying off debt right before applying for a mortgage. Drastic changes in your credit profile can sometimes cause temporary dips in your credit score.

5. Buy with PCS Moves in Mind: Long-Term VA Loan Strategy

Think beyond your current duty station. If you’re likely to PCS in a few years, consider properties in strong rental markets near major bases. Dual incomes can support holding the property as a rental while purchasing your next home with VA benefits.

Pro Tip: Not all VA lenders are experienced in helping military families plan for future rentals or multiple VA loans. Choose a lender who understands your lifestyle.

Dual Income, a Powerful Advantage for Military Couples

At the end of the day, having two incomes is a powerful advantage, if you know how to use it. Be strategic, do your homework, and make decisions that support your lifestyle now and your financial future later.

Whether you’re building roots or building equity, you’ve got options and we have the tools to help make it happen. Give our VA loan experts a call!

How Fewer PCS Moves Could Impact Military Homebuyers (and Sellers)

Savannah Stephens — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 22:06:12 +0000

Big changes are coming to how military families move – and that could reshape the way service members think about buying a home. In May 2025, the Department of Defense announced a major overhaul to Permanent Change of Station (PCS) policy. Beginning in 2026, the DoD plans to reduce discretionary PCS moves by 50% by 2030. While this shift could ease the disruption of frequent relocations, it also introduces new considerations for military homebuyers – especially those weighing whether to buy or rent during their next assignment.

DoD’s PCS Policy Changes: What’s Actually Changing?

A recent memo from the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness outlines a plan to cut discretionary PCS moves by 50% by fiscal year 2030, starting with a 10% reduction in 2027. This means reductions will begin October 2026.

Discretionary PCS moves, those not required for mission needs, include career development or education-related relocations. The goal is to prioritize geographic stability and allow service members to specialize in specific roles without frequent relocations.

This shift aims to address long-standing concerns about the impact of frequent moves on family life, spouse employment, and the overall wellness of a military family. A recent survey indicated that 32% of active-duty spouses favored leaving the military, mentioning challenges like finding employment and securing child care after a move.

Why the PCS Reforms Could Encourage Military Homeownership

For service members eyeing homeownership, these policy changes could be a double-edged sword, let’s look at how these changes might affect military homeownership long-term.

Increased Stability and Confidence in Buying

With fewer moves, families might feel more confident investing in property, knowing they’ll stay in one location longer. If families can imagine that home will be “home” long enough for them to unpack boxes, decorate, plant a garden, build a man-shed, etc., it’s more likely they will want to make that move into homeownership rather than renting for five years.

Financial Benefits of Longer Assignments

The ability for families to stay longer at one location offers two very positive financial options.

At WeVett, we strongly recommend the 3-year rule: if you don’t plan to live in or hold a home for at least three years, buying may not be the right call. Any less than that, families run the risk of having to sell at a loss because they haven’t accumulated enough equity in the home to offset the cost of purchasing (especially if they purchased using 0% down).

Second, longer tenancy also benefits spouses seeking gainful employment. It allows spouses to obtain employment for longer term positions, gain career enhancements and raises, and provides solid work history for future employment opportunities.

Stronger Community Roots for Military Families

Longer stays allow families to build deeper connections within their communities, which can vastly improve mental and emotional health for all members of the family. Children benefit from consistent schooling, long-term friendships, and the emotional security that comes with staying rooted.. Families will have the chance to connect not just with other military families, but also create relationships with people in the local community, such as neighbors, who can provide advice and assistance on different homeownership challenges or projects.

The Flip Side: New Risks for Military Sellers and Investors

Potential Trouble Selling in Military-Heavy Markets

In some duty stations, military homeowners may find it difficult to sell or rent out their home if service members are moving less frequently, especially if their home is in a predominantly a military-owned neighborhood. For areas that are crash-pad dense, investment owners might want to be cautious before investing too heavily in one location.

Risks from Market Volatility and Unplanned Moves

The real estate market’s volatility means that even with longer stays, buying a home carries financial risks, especially if unexpected relocations occur.

Smart Strategies for Homebuying Under the New PCS Rules

Thinking about buying a home under the new PCS rules? Here’s how to make a confident move:

Know Your Assignment Timeline (The 3-Year Rule)

Understand the expected length of your current assignment and any potential for extensions. Again referencing our 3-year rule, if your assignment is less than three years and you don’t intend to rent the property out when you leave, you might want to consider renting.

Get Matched With a Local Military-Experienced Agent

Seek guidance from a PCS real estate expert and research the housing market in your area to determine if buying is the right move for you. Local housing markets differ across the country, and what makes sense in one city, might be a recipe for disaster in another.

Build a Financial Exit Plan Just in Case

Think about the property’s resale potential or its viability as a rental if you need to move unexpectedly. Despite the potential for increased stability in move cycles, the military still has to remain operationally effective, and sometimes that means moving key people at unexpected moments. Have a game plan established for the unexpected: create a rental strategy and potential pro forma, take advantage of a VA streamlined refinance to reduce your mortgage payment, or complete minor upgrades on the home to boost resale value – that way one PCS move doesn’t sink your financial ship forever.

What These PCS Changes Mean for Your Future

The DoD’s PCS policy overhaul represents a significant shift in military life, aiming to balance operational readiness with family well-being. While the changes promise greater stability, they also require service members to navigate new challenges, especially concerning career progression and financial planning. We will begin to see those changes come into affect in 2026 – and from there, we hope to see the benefits outweighing the downsides for military families, especially when it comes to home ownership.

Need help deciding whether to buy or rent during your next move? We’ll connect you with a VA loan specialist and a military relocation expert – nationwide.

Helping Women Soar—One Rotor at a Time

Savannah Stephens — Wed, 14 May 2025 22:12:40 +0000

If you’ve never heard of Lexi Hargis, get ready to meet a woman who’s flying far beyond the cockpit. Former U.S. Army Black Hawk pilot, founder of Hover with Hargis, and now children’s book author of The Princess Pilots: Across the Globe, Lexi is redefining what it means to lead with passion, purpose, and a whole lot of heart.

Let’s rewind. Lexi commissioned into the Army in 2015, where she immediately headed to Fort Rucker for flight school. “Our entire class got Black Hawks,” she recalled, calling it a “huge blessing.” She was the only woman in her class—something she had to get used to fast.

When she got to her first unit in Texas, she was the only female pilot in her company. Then came a small deployment to Latvia, where the challenges of being the only woman in the room started to stack up.

After transitioning out of the Army, Lexi wasn’t ready to give up flying. She pursued a Marine Corps contract and even started Officer Candidate School all over again—until a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus brought everything to a halt.

“It felt like God was giving me a sign that you can’t heal in an environment that makes you sick,” she said.

Flying remained her greatest joy. But instead of solely flying for the military, Lexi began flying helicopters for fire suppression, and chose a new mission: to create opportunities for women in aviation. In 2021, she launched her nonprofit Hover with Hargis, which offers scholarships specifically for women who want to fly rotary-wing aircraft—a niche community that makes up less than 1% of rotary-wing pilots.

She started with just $6,000 and gave out her first scholarship in 2022.

“Once that first scholarship was given, it really took off,” Lexi said. From selling T-shirts to helping organize galas, Hover with Hargis has since awarded 12 scholarships and counting.

Every dollar raised—from merch sales to book royalties—goes right back into the mission.

But Lexi didn’t stop there.

After designing a few whimsical pilot characters for her shirts, someone asked, “Why don’t you have designs for little girls?” Overnight, her social media lit up. “I had 50 new followers and so many messages,” she said. The outpouring of encouragement led to The Princess Pilots: Across the Globe, a children’s book celebrating diverse young girls dreaming of the skies.

Published in April 2025, it features real-world inspiration behind each character and a second book—this one focused on helicopters—is already in the works.

And then there’s the Hover with Hargis Gala, which debuted in 2024 in partnership with Beth Ramirez, founder of Women with Wings. The event honors trailblazing women in aviation with titles like Ms. Women Who Hover, Ms. Women with Wrenches, and Ms. Women with Wings, all based on the values and impact of the candidates—not glitz or glam.

Lexi’s path hasn’t been easy, but she’s turned every roadblock into a runway. “The pain that I had in the military—it manifested and channeled its way into a creative way to give back,” she said. “The success of Hover with Hargis has been shown through the integrity of everything we do.”

No silver spoon. No family legacy in aviation. Just pure grit, a heart for service, and a deep belief in lifting others as she climbs (or hovers).

Lexi Hargis is proof that when you’re grounded in purpose, even a helicopter can feel like home.

If you want to keep up with Lexi’s journey, follow her on Instagram or purchase her book The Princess Pilots: Across the Globe on Amazon.

Making PCS Moves Easier in 2025

Savannah Stephens — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 21:43:50 +0000

For military service members and their families, moving is more than just packing boxes—it is a lifestyle. With assignments shifting across the globe, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves can be one of the most challenging aspects of military life.

For the Air and Space Forces, easing the burden of these moves has been an important focus for a while.

Over the past few years, the Department of the Air Force (DAF) has made significant improvements to the PCS process, and as we head into the Summer 2025 PCS cycle, even more enhancements are on the way.

Here is a look at what is changing:

What’s Already Improved?

Earlier Assignment Orders – No more last-minute scrambling! Instead of receiving orders just 60 days before a move, families now get them up to 210 days in advance, giving them more time to plan.

Higher Dislocation Allowance (DLA) – Moving costs add up quickly, so the DLA was increased in 2024 for E-1 through E-6 members with dependents, rising from $3,109 to $3,270 to help cover out-of-pocket expenses.

Pet Relocation Reimbursement – Because furry family members matter, too! Service members can now be reimbursed up to $550 for CONUS moves and $2,000 for OCONUS relocations—with a potential increase to $4,000 for special cases.

What’s Coming Later this Year?

A One-Stop PCS Resource – A revamped DAF PCS Benefits website with a QR code for easy access to all PCS-related info.

More Flexibility for House Hunting – Service members can use their 10 days of Permissive TDY (PTDY) incrementally, whether for house hunting or unpacking, making the transition smoother.

Expanded Temporary Lodging Benefits – TLA increased to 60 days for those departing an OCONUS duty station, and TLE extended from 14 to 21 days for CONUS moves.

Why PCS Changes Matter

By reducing the stress of PCS moves, these updates provide greater stability for military families—ensuring they can hit the ground running at their next assignment.

Moving will always be part of military life, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Hopefully these changes will lead to smoother PCSes for our military families!

If you’ve experienced a PCS move recently, we’d love to hear how it went! Send us an email at hello@wevett.com!

The History and Evolution of BAH

Savannah Stephens — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 22:34:59 +0000

If you’re in the military, you (and your bank account) are well aware of the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) benefit. How much do you really know about the history of BAH though and how it became what it is today?

Surprisingly, BAH didn’t even exist until 1998, when the DoD consolidated several housing allowances for service members into one benefit.

The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a fundamental benefit for members of the U.S. Armed Forces and the Department of Defense (DoD). This non-taxable allowance is meant to help military personnel afford adequate housing without having to live on base. The history of BAH reflects vast changes in military compensation policies and fluctuating housing costs–two things which dramatically impact enlisted and officers who frequently PCS.

Origins: Military Housing Allowances Pre-BAH

The beginnings of military housing allowances can be traced back to the post-World War II era. In the early years, military housing was more standardized. Service members were expected to live on base.

While this setup was convenient for most, it often led to housing shortages, and as the military grew and diversified, housing all personnel on base became challenging. Recognizing this issue, the government developed housing programs to assist service members who needed to live outside the gates.

Before BAH, a benefit called Basic Allowance for Quarters (BAQ) was in place, providing a small stipend for personnel who lived off base. However, BAQ rates were standardized across the country and did not adjust for local housing costs. As a result, many service members were left covering the difference between the fixed BAQ and their actual rent costs, particularly in high-cost areas.

Transition to the BAH Program in the 1990s

Congress approved a comprehensive reform of military housing allowances in the 1990s after recognizing the downfalls of BAQ. The intent was to make the military housing allowance system more responsive to the actual cost of living and more competitive with civilian housing standards.

In 1997, Congress mandated a change, and by January 1, 1998, BAQ was replaced with the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) program. The new BAH was designed to provide a fair and realistic reflection of housing costs based on geographic location, rank, and whether the service member had dependents.

The BAH computation includes local price data for median local rental housing costs and average utility costs, including electricity, heating fuel, water, and sewer. The DoD links rental housing costs collected with different levels of service members’ regular military pay. The six standard housing profiles are below:

Housing Profile	Grade with Dependents	Grade Without Dependents
1 Bedroom Apartment		E-4
2 Bedroom Apartment		0-1
2 Bedroom Townhouse/Duplex	E-5	0-1E
3 Bedroom Townhouse/Duplex	E-6	0-3E
3 Bedroom Single Family Detached House	W-3	0-6
4 Bedroom Single Family Detached House	0-5

*Source: https://media.defense.gov/2022/Jun/23/2003023204/-1/-1/0/BAH-PRIMER.PDF

Key Features and Improvements of BAH

The BAH program was revolutionary in several ways:

Location Variance: BAH rates were no longer standardized. Instead, they were adjusted based on the local housing market in over 300 Military Housing Areas (MHAs). This change made BAH much more responsive to real housing costs faced by Airmen and other service members across the country.

Dependent Rate Variance: BAH rates also began to consider whether a service member had dependents. Those with dependents received a higher rate, recognizing the additional space needed and expenses often associated with housing a family.

Annual Adjustments: BAH rates were set to be adjusted annually, ensuring that they reflected up-to-date housing costs and inflation. A team from the DoD began conducting surveys to track changes in rental prices, utilities, and other housing expenses to keep the rates as accurate as possible.

The “Out-of-Pocket” Era and Subsequent Reforms

Originally, the BAH law stated that the housing allowance could cover no more than 80% of local housing costs. However, in 2000, Congress mandated an overhaul of the BAH system to reduce this additional 20% expense to zero, fully covering housing costs by 2005.

The DoD reevaluated this policy in the mid-2010s. To address budget concerns, BAH was modified in 2015 to reintroduce a small out-of-pocket expense. The goal was to keep BAH sustainable without fully burdening military personnel. Today, BAH generally covers 95-97% of housing expenses for service members.

Another large reform was the introduction of Individual Rate Protection. IRP allows members to receive any new published BAH increase, and prevents a member from receiving a lower BAH rate than the previous year, as long as their BAH eligibility status remains the same.

So, what has BAH looked like over the years? It has varied drastically… and so has the cost of living.

BAH Chart [O-3 with Dependents]

*These charts are based off historical data and are rough estimates*

Arlington, Virginia

Year	BAH	2-Bed Apartment Monthly Rent	3-Bed, 2-Bath Home
2005	$2,012	$2,455	$550,000
2020	$2,859	$2,900	$737,000
2025 (Projected)	$3,985	$3,100	$890,000

Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington

Year	BAH	2-Bed Apartment Monthly Rent	3-Bed, 2-Bath Home
2005	$1,485	$930	$270,000
2020	$2,250	$1,700	$410,000
2025 (Projected)	$3,079	$2,100	$480,000

Minot, North Dakota

Year	BAH	2-Bed Apartment Monthly Rent	3-Bed, 2-Bath Home
2005	$877	$465	$140,000
2020	$1,686	$1,000	$290,000
2025 (Projected)	$1,937	$1,350	$302,000

Future of BAH in the Armed Forces

What’s next? What is that direct deposit going to look like next year?

Well for 2025, BAH rates are projected to increase by 3.9%! To see what that means for you (or to compare the last few years’ rates), visit our BAH calculator here.

BAH is expected to remain a core part of military compensation, with potential reforms aimed at keeping it sustainable. Some have proposed more flexible or regionalized approaches to BAH, considering the dramatic shifts in rental costs in recent years.

Did you know there’s an annual BAH rate determination timeline every single year for new rates? Check out this timeline from the DoD.

If you’re wondering what your BAH covers in your housing area, reach out to one of our WeVett Team who specialize in VA Home Loans and Military PCSes!