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Military House Hunting Trip

House-Hunting-Trip-Tips

A House Hunting Trip (HHT) is a key part of a military relocation, designed to help military personnel and their families secure accommodation at their new place of duty, with the goal of facilitating a door-to-door move. Here are some tips for a successful HHT:

Plan ahead: As soon as you receive your posting message, start planning your HHT. Early preparation reduces stress and allows for better research of housing options.
Understand entitlements: Familiarize yourself with the financial support available for your move, including travel expenses, lodging, and meal allowances. A standard HHT includes five days and five nights, plus two travel days for the CAF member or their spouse, with reimbursements from the core component of the relocation funding.
Research housing options: Investigate both on-base and off-base housing. On-base housing offers a sense of community, while off-base housing can provide more choices in terms of location and amenities.
Visit in advance: If possible, visit your new location to scout neighborhoods and view potential homes. If a pre-move visit is not possible, use virtual tours and local real estate agents.
Engage with professionals: Consider using a realtor that specializes in military relocations. They can help you navigate the local market and connect you with other professionals like lawyers and mortgage agents.
Be aware of the timeline: A standard HHT is five days and five nights, plus two travel days. Book your HHT as soon as possible, as there may be high demand, particularly during the active posting season (APS).
Make informed decisions: Choose a home that resonates with your family’s needs and aspirations, and do your due diligence in researching neighborhoods, schools, and local amenities.
Maximize your time: Prioritize your needs and wants for a home. Focus on finding a home that does not have any major issues and is likely to sell easily in the future.
Document everything: Note all relevant information, including home features, costs and contact information for your realtor and other professionals.
Be flexible: Adjusting to a new community takes time, so it’s important to be patient and flexible throughout the process.
By planning ahead, understanding your entitlements, and using available resources, you can make your HHT a successful part of your military relocation.

 

Briefing Document: Military House Hunting Trips (HHTs)

1. Introduction:

This document provides a comprehensive overview of military house hunting trips (HHTs), drawing on multiple sources that detail the processes,Military-House-Hunting-Trip entitlements, and best practices for service members relocating to a new duty station. The core purpose of an HHT is to secure accommodation at a new place of duty for a seamless “door-to-door” move.

2. Key Themes:

  • CAF: Eligibility is generally based on receiving a posting notice and not having secured accommodation yet. The CAF Relocation Directive (CAFRD) governs HHTs.
  • Planning and Preparation: Thorough planning is crucial for a successful HHT. This includes research, budgeting, and contacting relevant service providers.
  • Financial Reimbursement: Military members are reimbursed for various expenses incurred during an HHT, including travel, accommodation, meals, and incidentals. The specific rules and rates vary between standard, extended and short distance HHTs.
  • Trip Duration and Structure: The duration of HHTs varies, with standard trips typically ranging from 5-7 days and options for extensions or shorter trips based on distance and circumstances.
  • Importance of Documentation: Keeping detailed records and receipts is critical for successful reimbursement of expenses.
  • Seeking Expert Assistance: Engaging real estate agents, mortgage specialists, and relocation advisors is highly recommended for navigating the complexities of house hunting in a new location.

Here’s some common questions concerning the rules and tips for HHTs:

Who Can Go and When?

  • If you don’t already have a place to live at your new job, you can go on an HHT.
  • You usually go on an HHT after you get official notice that you’re moving, but before you actually start the new job.
  • You can’t go on an HHT until you get the official message saying you’re moving.
  • It’s best to go on the HHT before you move to your new location, but sometimes you can go after you get there.
  • If you already have a place to live, you might get a Destination Inspection Trip (DIT) instead.

How Long and How is it Paid For?

  • A regular HHT is 5 days and 5 nights, plus extra time for travel.
  • If the new job is nearby, you can travel back and forth each day for 5 days. This is called a short distance HHT.
  • The government pays for the member’s and spouse’s expenses, like travel, food, and lodging. They may also pay for childcare.
  • If you don’t use all your HHT days, you might get a little extra money.
  • The government usually pays for the most affordable way to travel.
  • You can get money for a rental car for up to six days and for gas and parking.
  • The government will pay for a hotel room as long as it is not too expensive.
  • If you stay with family or friends, you might get a small amount of money.

How to Plan and Get Ready

  • When you get your moving message, sign up with Brookfield Global Relocation Services (BGRS) and set up a planning meeting.
  • Start planning your HHT about two or three months before you have to move.
  • Try to sell your current house before you go on your HHT.
  • Research your new location, like the neighborhoods and schools.
  • Contact a real estate agent in your new location.
  • Get pre-approved for a loan if you plan to buy a house.
  • Make plans for childcare and pet care during your HHT.
  • Prepare questions for your BGRS agent before the planning meeting.
  • Try to look at many houses and negotiate with sellers to get the best deal.
  • Plan for a home inspection while you are on your HHT.

Important Advice

  • Work with a real estate agent who understands military moves and HHTs.
  • Understand the difference between a HHT and a DIT.
  • Bring all important paperwork.
  • Join social media groups to learn about the new area.
  • Double-check what you are allowed to claim on your move.
  • Check your travel plans to make sure they are correct.
  • Keep all your receipts so you can get your money back.
  • Try to focus on finding a home, but also do other important things if you have time.
  • If possible, make an offer on a house by day 3 of your HHT so that you have time to do all the paperwork and inspections.
  • Consider visiting the local library to help your kids feel more comfortable in the new area.

Following these tips can help make your House Hunting Trip easier and more successful when you move.

Find Your Approved BGRS Relocation Realtor Here

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