In this two-part episode, Tim Pope tackles two critical topics for pilots heading into 2026: real estate strategy and savings goals. First, Jade Barnett, USAF Veteran, Chief Operating Officer at Beacon Relocation (sponsor) joins the show to break down current market conditions, what buyers and sellers can expect across various metro areas, and how to navigate PCS or base-related moves. Plus: a new listener-exclusive promo for Pilot's Portfolio listeners - 25% of your agent's commission back when working with Beacon.

In the second half, Tim addresses the question: “How much should I be saving right now?” He walks through how to think about savings rates based on where you are in your career, the impact of the NEC, and how time horizon and compounding influence the outcome, outlining considerations to help you better understand your target savings rate.

What You'll Learn from This Episode

• Real Estate Market Snapshot: Why prices are softening and how buyer leverage is increasing, even with high rates.
• Pilot Relocation Planning: Tips for base transfers, PCS timing, and narrowing down options.
• Buy or Rent?: How to assess your current home and what a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) can reveal.
• VA Loan Flexibility: How veterans and spouses can reuse or combine benefits strategically.
• Q4 Closing Trends: Why more buyers are closing in December and January.
• Buying with a Strategy: Spreadsheet mindset: compare square footage, districts, and yield.
• Boots on the Ground: Why talking to local agents early gives you an edge.
• Beacon's Year-End Promo: Pilot's Portfolio listeners who contact Beacon in Q4 2025 get 25% of agent commission credited toward closing costs - on both the buy and sell sides - Promo Code: BeaconPilot2025 (valid through all 2026 closings)
• Savings by Career Stage: How targets shift with your time horizon and how NEC contributions help.
• Compounding in Action: How even modest contributions grow with time.
  Early Saver Advantage: Why frontloading builds margin for the future.

Resources:

Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more.
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Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

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