Military Relocation Guide

Moving to Nevada with a VA Loan: PCS and Relocation Tips

Relocating to Nevada on PCS orders? Whether you're headed to Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, Naval Air Station Fallon, or anywhere else in the Silver State, your VA home loan benefit makes homeownership smooth and affordable during your military move. This guide covers everything you need to know about using your VA loan for a Nevada relocation—from remote pre-approval to finding the perfect home near your new duty station.

Nevada military bases and housing markets

Nellis Air Force Base

Located in Las Vegas. Popular nearby areas include North Las Vegas, Henderson, and Summerlin. Median home price: $420,000. Commute time: 15-30 minutes from most neighborhoods.

NAS Fallon

Located in Fallon, 60 miles east of Reno. Smaller town with affordable housing. Median home price: $310,000. Military-friendly community with lower cost of living.

Reno/Sparks Area

Growing military community. Close to California bases and Sierra Army Depot. Median home price: $485,000. Four-season climate with mountain access.

Step-by-step VA loan relocation process

1

Get your VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

If you don't already have your COE, apply online through eBenefits, through your lender, or by mail. Processing takes 1-3 days online. Your PCS orders and DD Form 214 will verify eligibility.

Learn how to get your COE
2

Get pre-approved remotely (before you arrive)

Start your VA loan pre-approval from your current duty station. You'll need recent pay stubs, 2 years W-2s, bank statements, and your COE. Most lenders can complete pre-approval entirely online—no need to be in Nevada yet.

Start remote pre-approval
3

Connect with a military-friendly Nevada realtor

Work with a real estate agent who understands VA loans and military relocations. They can virtually tour homes for you, understand PCS timelines, and know neighborhoods near your base. Many agents work with buyers who haven't arrived yet.

4

House hunt (virtually or during house-hunting trip)

Use video tours, FaceTime walkthroughs, and virtual showings. If possible, plan a 3-5 day house-hunting trip to Nevada. Your realtor can schedule multiple showings in a short window to maximize your time.

5

Make an offer and go under contract

With 0% down and no PMI, VA buyers are competitive. Work with your agent to craft a strong offer. Consider waiving non-essential contingencies (but keep inspection and appraisal) to make your offer more attractive in Nevada's competitive markets.

6

Complete VA appraisal and underwriting

The VA will order an appraisal to ensure the home meets minimum property requirements and is worth the purchase price. Underwriting typically takes 2-3 weeks. You can complete most paperwork digitally from anywhere.

7

Close on your Nevada home (even if you're not there yet)

Many military buyers close remotely using digital signatures and a power of attorney. You can sign closing documents at your current base's legal office or use remote online notarization. Your home will be ready when you arrive!

PCS relocation tips for Nevada

Start early (90-120 days out)

Begin your home search 3-4 months before your report date if possible. This gives you time for remote pre-approval, house hunting, and closing without rushing. Nevada's housing market moves fast, especially near bases.

Use your VA benefit's $0 down

Save your cash for moving expenses, furniture, and settling in. VA loans require no down payment, so you only need money for closing costs (typically 1-3% of purchase price) which sellers can help cover.

Get a strong pre-approval letter

In competitive Nevada markets (Las Vegas, Reno), sellers prefer buyers with solid financing. A complete VA pre-approval (not just pre-qualification) shows you're a serious, qualified buyer and strengthens your offer.

Consider commute and school districts

Las Vegas traffic can be heavy during peak hours. Research commute times from neighborhoods to base. For families, check school ratings in Clark County (Las Vegas area) or Washoe County (Reno area).

Understand Nevada's climate

Las Vegas summers hit 110°F+. Look for homes with good AC, energy-efficient features, and covered parking. Northern Nevada (Reno/Fallon) has four seasons with cold winters and occasional snow.

Plan for remote closing

Many military buyers close before arriving. Set up power of attorney, use digital closing platforms, or have a trusted person attend closing for you. Your lender will guide you through remote closing options.

Common questions: PCS to Nevada with VA loan

Ready to start your Nevada PCS home purchase?

Our VA loan specialists understand military relocations and can help you buy a home in Nevada—even before you arrive. Get pre-approved remotely in minutes and start your house hunt with confidence.