PCS Survival Guide - Episode 2: Planning the Move – DITY, PPM & the Decisions That Cost You

Should your military family live on base or off base after a PCS move? And should you let the government handle your household goods—or complete a DITY move yourself? In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we continue our four-part PCS Survival Guide. In Episode 2 of our PCS Survival Series, Tom, Jodi, and VA loan expert Mel Aguto break down the biggest planning decisions in any PCS move: how to talk to your kids, on-base vs. off-base housing, and the critical HHG vs. DITY/PPM move choice. Plus: the one thing you should absolutely not do the moment orders arrive. Militarily Speaking dives into the heart of military life through the voices of those who’ve lived it. Hosted by Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery – seasoned professionals with a passion for serving the military community – the show blends financial insight, real-world experience, and honest conversation. Jodi, a proud military spouse, and Tom bring different perspectives that make every episode both relatable and practical. Each episode, we sit down with veterans, spouses, and leaders who share stories that matter – from the challenges of deployment and transition to insights on careers, family, and finances. It’s about the military journey, told through the people who know it best. And don’t miss our Military Minute, a trivia segment where listeners can test their knowledge of military history, pop culture, and more – with chances to win prizes for you and your favorite charity. Head over to our Facebook page for more info.  Season 2 brings even more stories, new voices, and more ways to engage with the community. Follow us on Facebook at Militarily Speaking Podcast and be part of the conversation. Produced by Armed Forces Bank. This is who we are. AFBank.com | Member FDIC 00:00 Planning the PCS Move 00:49 Telling Children and Family About the Move 04:12 Living on Base vs. Living off Base 05:27 Schools, Commutes and Military Community 06:07 Military Housing Waitlists and BAH 06:30 VA Home Loans at a New Duty Station 07:23 Using Military Financial Readiness Resources 07:52 Veteran PCS and Military-Friendly Realtors 08:38 Government Moves vs. DITY and PPM Moves 09:22 How a Household Goods Move Works 09:44 How a Personally Procured Move Works 11:01 Using a PPM Move Calculator 11:35 Risks of Moving Yourself 12:13 PCS Weight Allowances and Added Costs 12:37 Partial and Hybrid PCS Moves 13:22 What Not to Do After Receiving Orders 13:37 Avoiding Major Financial Commitments 14:32 Sharing PCS Orders on Social Media 15:04 Building Your PCS Planning Timeline 15:24 Relocation Assistance Program Resources 15:44 Key PCS Planning Takeaways