I was fortunate to get based where I live almost right away. That will make all the difference in QOL. Things are a little more relaxed on the ATR side, I'm usually only away from home around 6 or 7 nights a month. Around the holidays it's a little more than that. EMB guys in are very short staffed so on reserve you will be away more often. This is in DFW by the way so WARNING your experience may vary.

Your spouse, parents and children can travel as soon as you can, probably a week after you start training. However, girlfriend I don't think you can add until after 2 years of employment. There may be a loop hole though. You'll find out when you meet with HR and set it up.