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Home Is Where the Heart Is

Whether buying or renting, finding a place to call home is essential regardless of your location or stage of your military career.

Couple sitting in front of boxes in their new home

A home is much more than a dwelling. It’s your sanctuary, but it‘s also a major financial commitment. For most people, rent or a mortgage payment is their largest monthly expense. So, it should come as no surprise that balancing life’s other monetary commitments with the cost of housing can take some financial finesse.

This is especially true for military families. When it comes to housing options, Service members face unique considerations and challenges. The decision between living on-base or off-base, renting or buying, and embracing the sacrifices that come with frequent moves are all part of the job.

Before making any housing decision, it’s a good idea to take an objective look at your family’s needs, financial situation, plans, and goals for the future.

Renting vs. Buying

Reasons to Rent	Reasons to Buy
Simpler transaction than buying Finances don’t have to be as solid Typically, less cash required upfront No worries about selling when it’s time to move Major repairs and property taxes are the landlord’s responsibility	Property value increases (equity) belong to you Potential tax benefits More opportunities to make improvements Predictable cost of mortgage payment versus potential rent increases Rental income, if you decide to rent the property

Reasons to Rent

Reasons to Buy

Simpler transaction than buying
Finances don’t have to be as solid
Typically, less cash required upfront
No worries about selling when it’s time to move
Major repairs and property taxes are the landlord’s responsibility

Woman holding key by sold sign in front of a home.

Property value increases (equity) belong to you
Potential tax benefits
More opportunities to make improvements
Predictable cost of mortgage payment versus potential rent increases
Rental income, if you decide to rent the property

Service member and spouse outside of a house with a

Housing Options for Your Next PCS

The moment you receive PCS orders, a million to-dos come to mind, and one of the first orders of business is to find your next home. Learn about your options.

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