Articles, Guides, and Advice from The Dorazio Real Estate Team
A Week of Closings, a Testament to Trust: Five Transactions and a Whole Lot of Teamwork
Five closings, three clients, and more than $1.7M in total volume. A closer look at the trust, teamwork, and timing behind a record-setting week for Dorazio Real Estate.
What Does “Military-Friendly” Really Mean in Real Estate?
“Military-friendly” is often used in real estate, but not always accurately. True support means understanding PCS timelines, local military needs, and the realities of military life. Learn what to look for in a Realtor who genuinely gets it.
Making Friends Fast: How to Build Community After a Move
Moving to a new city can be emotionally draining, but it doesn’t have to feel lonely. Military families are experts at building new communities quickly. From local groups to shared interests, this guide offers real strategies to help you settle in and feel at home faster.
What to Pack vs. What to Store During a PCS Move
PCS move coming up? Learn what to bring, what to store, and how to make military relocations easier. Smart planning saves time and stress, especially for families moving to or from Chicagoland.
What makes a MIL-Estate Realtor Different?
Not all real estate agents understand military life, but MIL-Estate agents do. From PCS orders to VA loans and short-notice relocations, we’ve lived it and guided others through it. Learn why Dorazio Real Estate, the only MIL-Estate team in Chicagoland, sets the standard.
Keeping Your Home Show-Ready With Kids and Pets
Selling a home while managing kids, pets, and a PCS move is a serious challenge. But staying showing-ready doesn’t have to mean daily deep cleaning. These realistic tips help military families keep their homes clean, organized, and ready for buyers.
Understanding Appraisals: What Military Buyers & Sellers Should Know
Appraisals are one of the most important and often stressful parts of buying or selling a home. For military families navigating VA loans and PCS timelines, a low appraisal can create serious complications. Here’s how to stay prepared and make smart decisions on either side of the deal.
How to Evaluate School Districts When Relocating: A Guide for Military Families
Military families face unique challenges when moving to a new duty station, especially when children are involved. Finding the right school is just as important as finding the right home. Learn how to research school districts, ask the right questions, and make the best choice for your child’s education.
What to Do When Your PCS Orders Change Last Minute
PCS orders often arrive without warning, turning your moving plans upside down. This guide walks military families through smart, calm steps to handle last minute changes with expert real estate support. With Dorazio Real Estate by your side, you can relocate quickly and confidently anywhere in the country, no matter the curveballs.
PCS and Relocation Moves Made Simple: Mastering Virtual Home Tours from Afar
Buying a home during a PCS move can feel overwhelming, especially if you can’t see it in person. This guide walks military families through how to use virtual tours, live video walkthroughs, and remote inspections to make confident decisions. Learn how to evaluate a home and neighborhood without ever setting foot there.
VA Home Loans for MBAs: A Guide for Veterans in Career Transition
This guide explores how high-potential veterans, especially those pursuing or holding MBAs, can strategically use VA Loans during life and career transitions. It helps readers decide whether to buy or rent, choose between VA, FHA, or Conventional loans, and preserve VA entitlement for future use. The article also outlines real-world scenarios and pitfalls to avoid when navigating homeownership while income, geography, and goals remain uncertain.
Why MIL-Estate Agents Understand Your Military Move Best
Military moves are fast, complex, and unlike any civilian relocation. At Dorazio Real Estate, we bring personal military experience and local expertise to your military or veteran move. As proud members of the MIL-Estate Network, we open up the vast Chicagoland market for vets and active military, and connect you to trusted agents nationwide for seamless transitions.
Top 5 Best Places to Buy a Home After Military Retirement
Looking for the best places to buy a home after military retirement? These five veteran-friendly cities offer great housing, tax benefits, and strong support systems tailored to former service members. Discover where to settle down with comfort, affordability, and community.
5 Ways Military Life Prepares You for Homeownership
Military service builds skills that directly translate to successful homeownership. From financial discipline to long-term planning, Veterans are naturally equipped to navigate the buying process. This post highlights five powerful traits and how Dorazio Real Estate can help put them to work for you.
🎙️ VA Loan Basics: Myths, Facts, & Pro Tips
Most Veterans never fully unlock the power of their VA loan benefit. This guide covers the real facts, costly myths, and pro strategies to help you use your benefit smarter. Learn how to invest, house hack, and save thousands in 2025 and beyond.
Where Are Military Families Moving Most in 2025?
Military families are relocating across the U.S. in 2025, with top destinations including Tampa, Colorado Springs, and San Antonio. This guide highlights affordable cities, strong VA loan markets, and military-friendly communities. Whether you're PCS'ing or retiring, we can help with your next move.
How to Choose the Best Military-Friendly Realtor for Your Move
Planning a military move? Learn how to choose the best military-friendly real estate agent to guide you through the process, whether you're relocating to or from Chicago. Dorazio Real Estate is veteran-owned, VA loan-savvy, and part of the MIL-Estate Network nationwide. We can help no matter what.
The Biggest Mistakes Military Homebuyers Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Buying a home while serving in the military comes with unique challenges. Learn how to avoid the most common mistakes military buyers make, from misunderstanding VA loans to choosing the wrong agent. Smart strategies now can save you money and stress later.
Building Trust: The Key to a Smoother Home Journey for Military Families
Trust is essential in military real estate, helping families navigate buying, selling, and investing with confidence. Working with a trusted MIL-Estate agent ensures transparency, advocacy, and a stress-free experience. Dorazio Real Estate proudly supports military families through every step of their real estate journey.
How to Handle Your Home While Away on Duty: A Veteran's Guide
Managing your home while away on duty doesn’t have to be overwhelming. From automation tools to trusted real estate guidance, there are strategies that ensure peace of mind during your deployment. Dorazio Real Estate is here to help!

