The Military Guide to Owning a Home

A Roadmap to Secure and Successful Homeownership for Service Members

Imagine this: it’s November 1st, and you’ve just received new orders. A new duty station, a new town, maybe even a new state. For many military families, this cycle of moving is simply part of life. But that doesn’t mean owning a home is out of reach. In fact, with the right strategy, your military lifestyle can align beautifully with the goal of homeownership.

As one military spouse wisely put it, “Home is where the heart is, even if you have to move it every few years.” That simple truth reflects both the challenges and the opportunities that service members face in today’s housing market.

Let’s break down the tools, tips, and strategies that can make owning a home not only possible but a smart financial move for your future.

Understanding Your Benefits

The first step is knowing the benefits you’ve earned through service:

• Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): This monthly benefit helps cover housing costs based on your pay grade, dependency status, and duty station location. In 2025, the Department of Defense set the average BAH increase at 5.4% nationwide to reflect the rising costs of housing (Military Times). This means more financial support for service members navigating high-cost housing markets.
• VA Home Loan Program: Perhaps the most powerful tool in your arsenal, VA loans allow you to buy with no down payment and no private mortgage insurance. Additionally, interest rates are typically lower than those for conventional loans. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, the VA guaranteed over 400,000 home loans in 2023 alone (VA.gov), demonstrating the widespread use of this benefit by service members.

These programs don’t just make homeownership possible; they make it sustainable.

Choosing the Right Location

When buying a home, location is always a key factor. But for military families, it’s even more important. Here’s what I tell my clients:

• Think proximity. Living close to your base can save hours of commuting time each week.
• Consider schools and the community. Even if you don’t have children, school districts can still significantly influence the resale value of a home.
• Plan for flexibility. Ask yourself: if you get reassigned, would this home rent quickly? Would it sell easily?

A home that doubles as a strong rental property or has long-term resale value can protect you financially if orders come sooner than expected.

Managing Your Home While Deployed

Deployment doesn’t have to mean putting your homeownership dreams on pause. With a solid plan, you can keep your property secure and profitable:

• Hire a property management company. They’ll handle rent collection, repairs, and tenant communication.
• Leverage technology. Online portals let you check in on your property from anywhere in the world.
• Create a financial cushion. A small reserve fund ensures you’re covered for unexpected expenses while deployed.

This peace of mind allows you to focus fully on your mission, knowing your investment back home is being cared for.

Making the Most of Your Investment

Owning a home isn’t just about today; it’s about your financial future. Here’s how to maximize your investment:

• Watch the market. Housing markets in military-heavy areas often remain steady due to consistent demand.
• Upgrade smartly. Simple improvements, such as fresh paint, landscaping, or updated fixtures, can significantly boost value.
• Tap into military resources. Many bases offer financial counseling and homeowner education workshops designed just for service members.

Done right, your home can become both a haven and a wealth-building tool.

My Final Thoughts

Owning a home as a military service member may feel complicated, but it’s absolutely within reach and often a smarter move than renting long-term. With BAH, VA loan benefits, and a thoughtful strategy, you can turn your mobile lifestyle into an advantage.

If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d love to help. 📲 Contact me, Michael Brannon, REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Elite, for personalized guidance on buying, selling, or investing as a service member. You can visit my website here.

For even more insights, visit the National Association of REALTORS®‘ housing resources.

“…because at the end of the day, home isn’t just a place; it’s your foundation, no matter where the military takes you.“