Before buying in Woodbridge or Fairfax, military families should plan around timing, commute reality, school logistics, and cash flow—not just the home itself. The best outcomes happen when you get fully pre-approved early, choose the right neighborhood for your daily routine, and structure a contract that won’t collapse under PCS deadlines.

For most buyers in Woodbridge, VA, move-in ready is the safer choice when you need a predictable timeline and you don’t have a big cash cushion after closing. A fixer-upper can make sense when the price discount is real, you have reserves for surprises, and you can handle delays. The decision comes down to all-in cost + timeline risk, not just the list