Navy House Hunting Leave: A Guide For Military Families

As a member of the US Navy, relocating to a new duty station can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding a new home. The Navy's House Hunting Leave (HHT) program is designed to help military families navigate this process, but it can be complex and overwhelming. In this article, we'll break down the ins and outs of the HHT program, providing you with a comprehensive guide to make your house hunting trip a success.

Understanding the HHT Program

The House Hunting Leave program is a type of permissive temporary duty (PTDY) that allows military personnel to travel to their new duty station to find a home before their official move date. The program is designed to help families get settled into their new location, reducing the stress and uncertainty of relocating.

Eligibility and Benefits

To be eligible for the HHT program, military personnel must be:

Receiving permanent change of station (PCS) orders
Moving to a new duty station within the continental United States (CONUS) or Alaska
Authorized to receive per diem and travel allowances

The benefits of the HHT program include:

Up to 10 days of paid leave to find a home
Reimbursement for travel expenses, including transportation and lodging
Per diem allowance for meals and incidentals
Time to explore the new area and get familiar with the local community

Preparing for Your HHT Trip

Before embarking on your HHT trip, there are several things you should do to prepare:

Review your orders and ensure you understand the details of your move
Research the new area, including the local real estate market and neighborhoods
Make a list of your housing needs and priorities
Gather necessary documents, including your orders and identification
Plan your itinerary and make travel arrangements

Steps to Take During Your HHT Trip

During your HHT trip, follow these steps to make the most of your time:

Get Familiar with the Area: Explore the local community, including neighborhoods, schools, and amenities.
Research Local Real Estate: Look into the local real estate market, including current listings and prices.
Visit Potential Homes: Visit potential homes and neighborhoods to get a sense of the area.
Meet with Real Estate Agents: Meet with real estate agents to discuss your housing needs and get advice on the local market.
Take Notes and Photos: Take notes and photos of potential homes and neighborhoods to reference later.

After Your HHT Trip

After your HHT trip, follow these steps to finalize your housing plans:

Submit Your Housing Choices: Submit your housing choices to your command or housing office.
Finalize Your Lease or Purchase: Finalize your lease or purchase agreement for your new home.
Update Your Records: Update your records, including your address and housing information.
Prepare for Your Move: Prepare for your move, including packing and arranging for transportation.

Tips and Reminders

Here are some additional tips and reminders to keep in mind:

Be Flexible: Be flexible and open-minded when exploring potential homes and neighborhoods.
Take Your Time: Take your time and don't rush into a decision.
Seek Advice: Seek advice from real estate agents and other experts to help guide your decision.
Keep Records: Keep records of your HHT trip, including receipts and documents.

Conclusion

The Navy's House Hunting Leave program is a valuable resource for military families relocating to a new duty station. By understanding the program and following these steps, you can make the most of your HHT trip and find a home that meets your needs and priorities. Remember to be flexible, take your time, and seek advice from experts to ensure a successful house hunting trip.

Gallery of Navy House Hunting Leave Images

Navy House Hunting Leave Image Gallery

FAQs

What is the purpose of the Navy's House Hunting Leave program?

The Navy's House Hunting Leave program is designed to help military families navigate the process of finding a new home when relocating to a new duty station.

Who is eligible for the HHT program?

Eligibility for the HHT program includes military personnel receiving permanent change of station (PCS) orders and moving to a new duty station within the continental United States (CONUS) or Alaska.

How long can I take for my HHT trip?

The HHT program allows for up to 10 days of paid leave to find a home.

What expenses are reimbursed during my HHT trip?

Travel expenses, including transportation and lodging, are reimbursed during the HHT trip. Additionally, a per diem allowance is provided for meals and incidentals.

What should I do before my HHT trip?

Before your HHT trip, review your orders and research the new area, including the local real estate market and neighborhoods.