PCS Move Guide: Settling in Burke Fast

PCS orders in hand and a ticking clock? If you are moving to Burke in Fairfax County, you likely need housing, school enrollment, and commute answers fast. You want a smooth landing for your family without missing key deadlines. This quick-start guide gives you the essential local steps, resources, and tips you can use right away to settle confidently in Burke. Let’s dive in.

Why Burke works for PCS families

Burke delivers a suburban feel with established neighborhoods, parks, and everyday conveniences. You will find single-family homes, townhomes, and condos, plus community trails and playgrounds.

Many military families choose Burke to balance commute options with access to amenities. You can tailor your routine around driving, commuter rail, or telework days while enjoying parks, shopping, and strong community ties.

Quick neighborhood orientation

Burke includes several subareas such as Burke Centre, historic Burke, and surrounding subdivisions. Burke Centre is a planned community with trails, community spaces, and a VRE station for commuter rail.

Homeowner associations are common in many neighborhoods. If you rent or buy, review HOA rules on parking, exterior changes, and pets before you commit. Housing was largely built from the 1960s to the 1990s, so renovation styles and updates vary.

Commute and transportation

Expect Northern Virginia traffic patterns, especially during peak hours. Burke connects to I-95, I-495, I-66, Route 123, and Fairfax County Parkway. Real-time apps can help you find a reliable route and timing.

For transit, the Virginia Railway Express serves Burke Centre. You can check schedules and stations on the VRE commuter rail site. Metrorail does not run through Burke, so many commuters use VRE, drive to a Metro station, or take Fairfax Connector buses.

Parks and everyday amenities

You will have easy access to local shopping centers, grocery stores, and services. For outdoor time, the Fairfax County Park Authority maintains parks, programs, and trails, including the popular Burke Lake area for walking and fishing. Recreation choices nearby include playgrounds, nature trails, and golf facilities.

Schools and enrollment steps

Burke is served by Fairfax County Public Schools. Assignments are based on boundaries and can change, so confirm your school by address. Start enrollment early if you want a smooth first week.

• Confirm your assigned school using the FCPS enrollment resources and boundary tools.
• Prepare required documents: proof of residency, student birth certificate, immunization records, and prior school records.
• If you have special education needs, contact FCPS special education intake in advance to discuss services.
• Private and parochial options are also available in Northern Virginia if you prefer.

Healthcare and military support

Active-duty members often use on-post care at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. Dependents and retirees may use TRICARE-authorized civilian providers across Northern Virginia.

• Review coverage and enrollment details on TRICARE before arrival.
• For base information, check Fort Belvoir’s official site for contacts, housing, and support resources.

Renting vs. buying for a PCS

Choosing where to live often comes down to timing and tour length. Renting can be faster with lower upfront costs. Buying can build equity if you plan to stay long enough.

If you plan to buy, VA loans are widely used in Northern Virginia. Learn about benefits and requirements from the VA Home Loan Program. Work with a VA-experienced lender and an agent who understands appraisal timelines, inspection contingencies, and ways to keep your contract on track during a compressed PCS window.

Power of attorney is common if you must move before closing. Confirm requirements with your lender and legal office early so documents are accepted on time.

Pre-arrival to week 1 checklist

Use this quick timeline to stay organized and reduce stress.

90–120 days before arrival

• Contact the gaining installation housing office. If you want on-post options, start with Fort Belvoir.
• Begin school enrollment planning through FCPS enrollment resources. Request student records early.
• If buying, interview VA-savvy lenders and get prequalified. Review benefits on the VA Home Loan Program.
• Review PCS entitlements and TLA rules at the Defense Travel Management site. Consider short-term lodging if needed.

60–30 days before arrival

• Finalize HHG shipment with your transportation office. Use your PCS checklist from Military OneSource to track tasks.
• If renting, align your lease start with arrival and any TLA windows.
• Arrange pet transport and ensure vaccinations and records are current.

Arrival week

• Report to your unit and complete in-processing. Update DEERS and confirm healthcare enrollment on TRICARE.
• Register vehicles and review deadlines at the Virginia DMV. Military provisions may apply.
• Set up utilities: Dominion Energy for electric, Fairfax Water, Washington Gas where applicable, and internet via Comcast Xfinity or Verizon Fios depending on address.
• Forward mail and update addresses with finance, banks, and subscriptions.

First month

• Complete school enrollment and meet counselors. Share prior records and IEP documents if applicable.
• If buying, schedule inspections and appraisal right away. Confirm closing logistics and POA if you will be traveling.
• Explore commute options. Check VRE schedules or test-drive multiple routes at your expected commute time.

First three months

• Join neighborhood or community groups. Explore programs through the Fairfax County Park Authority.
• Look into childcare waitlists and spouse employment resources through your installation and Military OneSource.

Common PCS decisions in Burke

• On-post vs. off-post: If on-post housing near Fort Belvoir is unavailable, off-post options in Burke can deliver more housing variety and neighborhood choice. Weigh commute time and HOA rules.
• Renting while you look: Short-term leases and extended-stay options can bridge your search if you arrive before you find the right home.
• Buying on a deadline: With a strong team and VA loan expertise, you can close on time. Build in buffer for appraisal and underwriting.

How Carrie & Co. helps

You deserve a fast, low-stress transition. Carrie & Co. is a local team serving Burke and surrounding Fairfax County neighborhoods. The team supports military and relocation clients with clear timelines, virtual showings, and VA-savvy guidance so you can act quickly and confidently.

• Neighborhood-first advice to align commute, school zones, and amenities.
• Buyer support for tours, offers, inspections, and negotiation.
• Relocation-smart coordination so tasks move in parallel and deadlines are met.

Ready to make Burke feel like home fast? Reach out to Unknown Company to Schedule a Free Home Consultation. We will help you secure the right place and settle in with confidence.

FAQs

Is Burke a good choice for Fort Belvoir commutes?

• Many families choose Burke to balance commute options with suburban amenities. Routes and times vary, so test-drive your commute and consider VRE service if it fits your schedule.

How do I enroll my child in Fairfax County schools?

• Confirm your school by address and begin enrollment through FCPS enrollment resources. Gather proof of residency, birth certificate, immunizations, and prior records.

Where do I find PCS entitlements and TLA rules?

• Review current guidance at the Defense Travel Management site and coordinate with your unit or sponsor for specifics.

What should I know about VA loans in Northern Virginia?

• VA loans are common here. Start with the VA Home Loan Program and work with a VA-experienced lender and agent to manage appraisal and underwriting timelines.

How soon do I need to register my vehicle in Virginia?

• New residents have limited time to obtain a Virginia license and vehicle registration. Active-duty members may qualify for provisions. Check current rules at the Virginia DMV.

Where can I learn about local healthcare options?

• Active-duty members often use Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. Dependents should confirm coverage and provider networks on TRICARE. Civilian hospitals like Inova have facilities across Northern Virginia.