PCSing to Moody AFB and Life in Southern Georgia
Introduction So you've received orders and you're headed to the Moody Command Post. Moving to a new duty station can be both exciting and stressful. You'll find the the local community widely supports Located in Southern Georgia, Moody AFB is home to the 23rd Wing and is known for its Special Operations training. In this blog post, we'll discuss what it's like to PCS and what life is like in Southern Georgia. What city is Moody Air Force Base in? Just north of Valdosta, Georgia on Bemiss Road, you find Moody AFB GA. The closest large city is Valdosta which is a city of opportunity. With numerous Fortune 500 companies located in the area, it’s easy to find stable jobs that offer competitive wages and benefits packages. The city also has a thriving arts and entertainment scene. From the historic Sunset Theatre to the Watermelon Capital Speedway, there's always something going on in Valdosta to keep locals entertained. Valdosta is not just an attractive place to live but also an excellent investment opportunity due to its low costs for homes and stable job market, making it an ideal location for retirees and active duty members who may be interested in purchasing or selling real estate in this region. Downtown Valdosta Downtown is a charming and historic area that offers a variety of activities and attractions. The area is home to several museums, including the Lowndes County Historical Museum, which features exhibits on local history, and the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, which showcases local and regional art. In addition to museums, it's known for its shopping and dining. The area is home to several boutique shops and specialty stores, as well as a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. Whether you're in the mood for Southern comfort food or international cuisine, you'll find something to suit your tastes. One of the highlights of Valdosta is the historic courthouse. Built in 1905, the courthouse is an impressive example of Classical Revival architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The courthouse is still in use today and is a popular spot for photo opportunities. Watch Susans video tour of Downtown Valdosta Georgia Another popular attraction is the Valdosta-Lowndes County Library. The library is housed in a historic building and offers a variety of programs and events for all ages. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to read or a place to attend a community event, the library is a great destination. Overall, downtown Valdosta is a vibrant and exciting area that offers something for everyone. With its mix of history, culture, shopping, and dining, it's a great place to spend a day or an evening. If you're PCSing to Moody AFB or just visiting, be sure to add downtown Valdosta to your list of must-see destinations. About Moody Air Force Base Moody is located about 30 miles north of the Florida border with GA. Moody's main command was the Aviation Combat Command (AACC). The 23rd Wing houses the internationally famous flying Tigers combat rescue and security forces fighters. Moody AFB is known for its air combat command and Special Operations training. The base is home to the 23rd Wing, which is responsible for training and preparing combat-ready airmen to execute Special Operations missions. Moody AFB is one of the few bases in the country that trains Combat Control, Special Operations Weather, and Tactical Air Control Party airmen. What fighter wing is Moody AFB? The base also hosts the Air Force's largest A-10C Thunderbolt II fighter wing, which provides close air support for ground troops. In addition to its Special Operations training, Moody AFB is also known for its diverse capabilities and its commitment to supporting the United States' national security objectives Air Force Pioneer Moody Air Force Base was named in memory of Major George Putnam Moody, an Air Force pioneer killed in May 1941, while serving with the Beech Aircraft Company in Wichita, Kansas and is a critical air corp training base for the US war department. The Weather You can expect a humid subtropical climate, which means hot summers and mild winters. The summer months can be particularly brutal, with temperatures regularly reaching the high 90s and humidity levels that can make it feel even hotter. However, the winter months are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely falling below freezing. If you're someone who loves the sun and doesn't mind a little humidity, then you'll enjoy the weather in Southern GA. Outdoor Activities One of the benefits of living in South is the abundance of outdoor activities. The region is home to several state parks, including the Okefenokee Swamp, which offers hiking, camping, and boating opportunities. There are also several lakes and rivers in the area that are perfect for fishing and boating. If you're a golfer, you'll be happy to know that the Valdosta area is a golfer's paradise, with several excellent courses to choose from. Kinderlou Forest Golf Club is one of the top-rated courses in the state, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course features well-manicured fairways and greens, as well as several water hazards and bunkers to keep things interesting. Other popular courses in the area include the Francis Lake Golf Course, which offers affordable rates and a relaxed atmosphere, and the Stone Creek Golf Club, which boasts scenic views and a variety of challenging holes. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you're sure to find a course that meets your needs in the Valdosta area. The Culture The area is steeped in history and culture. The region has a rich agricultural history, and you'll find several farmers' markets and roadside stands selling fresh produce. The area is also known for its Southern hospitality, and you'll find that the locals are friendly and welcoming. If you're a history buff, you'll enjoy exploring the region's many museums and historic sites, including the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site. Things to do in Valdosta Georgia and surrouding Here are the top 5 attractions: Wild Adventures Theme Park Valdosta Mall Kinderlou Forest Golf Club Lowndes County Historical Museum Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts Note that Wild Adventures Theme Park is a popular destination for families, with a variety of rides and attractions for all ages. If you have children, be sure to add Wild Adventures to your list of must-see destinations. Watch Susans Video On Wild Adventures Housing for Moody Air Force Base One of the questions we get asked the most is Where should I live if stationed at Moody AFB? Valdosta, is a great place to buy real estate due to its thriving economy and proximity to Moody Air Force Base. With the base just a short drive away, there are numerous opportunities for families looking for stable employment with good wages. It's also an attractive area for first-time homebuyers due to its affordability compared to larger cities. For those looking to sell real estate in Valdosta, there are plenty of buyers who are interested in taking advantage of the area's real estate market. Homes tend to be priced below their actual values due to the large number of listings currently on the market. This makes it relatively easy for sellers to get top dollar for their properties while still maintaining competitive listing prices. Susan Cook with the American Dream is an experienced real estate broker, works hand and glove with several lenders to ensure you get the service you deserve. She is also a VA expert and is a great contact to have make your move to a success. Plus, she has special programs for member of the Air Force. Whether you’re interested in buying or selling real estate in Valdosta and Moody Air Force Base area, you can rest assured knowing that you're making a sound investment that will continue growing with time! Search for properties now at https://exploresouthernlife.com/ Conclusion PCS'ing will be an exciting adventure. While the weather may take some getting used to, the abundance of outdoor activities and rich culture make the area a fantastic place to call home. With its welcoming locals and excellent amenities, you're sure to love your time in Exploring Southern Life Reach out to Susan to help you with you move or with questions.
Understanding and using your VA Mortgage Benefits
Understanding and Using Your VA Mortgage Benefits Are you a military veteran looking to buy a home? If so, you might be eligible for a VA mortgage. VA mortgages offer a number of benefits, including lower interest rates and no down payment requirement. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at VA mortgages and what you need to know to take advantage of this valuable benefit. Qualifications for VA Mortgages To qualify for a VA mortgage, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include: You must be a veteran who served on active duty for at least 90 consecutive days during wartime, or 181 consecutive days during peacetime. You must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. You must have completed basic training. You must meet certain credit and income requirements. If you meet these qualifications, you can apply for a VA mortgage through a lender that participates in the VA home loan program. VA Mortgage Ratios VA mortgages have certain requirements when it comes to debt-to-income (DTI) ratios. Your DTI ratio is the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward paying off debt. VA mortgages generally require a DTI ratio of no more than 41%. However, there may be some flexibility in this requirement depending on your individual circumstances. In addition to the DTI ratio, VA mortgages also have a residual income requirement. Residual income is the amount of money you have left over each month after paying all of your bills. The VA has established residual income guidelines based on family size and geographic location. You must meet these guidelines to qualify for a VA mortgage. VA Mortgage Requirements In addition to the qualifications and ratios discussed above, there are some other requirements you should be aware of when applying for a VA mortgage. These include: The property you're buying must be your primary residence. The property must meet certain minimum property requirements (MPRs) established by the VA. These include things like having a safe water supply and adequate heating and electrical systems. You may be required to pay a funding fee. This fee helps to offset the cost of the VA home loan program for taxpayers. The amount of the fee varies depending on your military service and the size of your down payment. VA Inspections and Appraisals When using a VA mortgage to purchase a home, there are a few things to keep in mind regarding inspections, appraisals, and fees. One important thing to note is that the VA requires certain property requirements to be met before approving a loan. These requirements are known as Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). However, the VA does not guarantee that the property is free of defects, so it's important to also get a home inspection. A home inspection is an important part of the home buying process, especially when using a VA mortgage. While the MPRs cover basic safety and livability requirements, a home inspection can help identify any potential issues that may exist beyond those requirements. This can include things like a leaky roof, faulty electrical wiring, or outdated plumbing. A thorough home inspection can give you peace of mind that you're making a sound investment. An appraisal is also required when using a VA mortgage. An appraisal is an assessment of the fair market value of the property. This is important for both the lender and the borrower, as it helps ensure that the property is worth the amount being loaned. The VA has specific requirements when it comes to appraisals, including that the appraiser be VA-approved and that the appraisal be completed within a certain timeframe. Finally, it's important to be aware of any fees associated with a VA mortgage. While VA mortgages generally do not require a down payment, there are still fees that may be associated with the loan. One such fee is the funding fee, which is a percentage of the loan amount that helps offset the cost of the VA home loan program for taxpayers. The amount of the funding fee varies depending on your military service and the size of your down payment. In addition to the funding fee, there may also be closing costs, which can include things like appraisal fees, title fees, and attorney fees. In summary, when using a VA mortgage to purchase a home, it's important to keep in mind the requirements for inspections and appraisals, as well as any associated fees. By understanding these aspects of the loan process, you can make an informed decision about whether a VA mortgage is right for you. Conclusion If you're a military veteran looking to buy a home, a VA mortgage can be a great option. By understanding the qualifications, ratios, and requirements associated with VA mortgages, you can make an informed decision about whether this type of loan is right for you. Be sure to work with a lender who is familiar with the VA home loan program and can help guide you through the application process. With the right preparation and assistance, you can take advantage of your VA mortgage benefits and achieve your dream of homeownership. Susan Cook is a trusted real estate broker with over 20 years experience helping our military family with home ownership and she is an expert at the process. If you have any questions about using your VA eligibility reach out to her.
