Skip to Content

How Can I Invest in Real Estate if I’m a Veteran or Active Duty Military?

Milton Active-Duty Military Member with Her FamilyIf you are a veteran or active-duty service member interested in rental property investments, this article is for you! Investing in Milton rental properties can be an excellent way to secure your financial future and build equity. However, there are a few things you should be aware of prior to beginning. This guide will walk you through the fundamentals of investing in rental properties as an active-duty service member or veteran. We’ll also discuss a few tips that will facilitate the search for and acquisition of investment properties. This guide has something for everyone, whether you are a newbie or a professional in rental properties.

Invest with a VA Loan

If you are a veteran, you might be qualified for a VA loan. This type of loan may be utilized to purchase a rental property and comes with numerous advantages, including no down payment and lower interest rates. You must fulfill certain eligibility criteria and earn enough money to cover your mortgage payments each month. If you meet the criteria, a VA loan can be an excellent way to finance your investment in rental property.

There are a few drawbacks to VA loans that should be taken into account. In the event that you put less than 20% down on the property, for instance, you might be required to pay for private mortgage insurance (PMI). Additionally, the county in which the property is located determines the maximum loan amount. Therefore, if you are considering rental properties in high-cost areas, you may not be eligible for a VA loan.

You should be aware of the occupancy requirements as well. A minimum of one year after purchase, you or a qualified tenant must live there as your primary residence. After that, you can find tenants to live there. However, if you vacate the property before the one-year mark, you may be required to pay a penalty or modify the loan terms.

Use BAH to Secure Financing

The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is an added advantage for investors who are active duty military personnel. BAH is a housing benefit that lessens the burden of paying rent. Your pay grade, duty station location, and whether you have dependents all factor into this decision. BAH can be used to help with monthly mortgage payments if you’re looking for a rental property close to your place of duty.

You must be serving in the military on active duty and possess valid orders for a permanent change of station (PCS) in order to be eligible for BAH. You’ll also need to show proof of income and have enough money set aside for a down payment on the rental property to qualify for financing. However, if you already receive BAH, you might be able to use it to pay for a single-family house, a townhouse, or a condominium unit. There are some limitations on how BAH can be used, just be sure to consult a housing counselor or real estate professional before actually making an offer on a rental property.

Go Multi-Family

A multi-family building might be something to think about if you’re looking for a rental property that will bring in more money. They can be fourplexes, triplexes, or duplexes. They have the potential to increase rental rates and attract more tenants. If you intend to occupy one of the units, you can use a VA loan to finance a multifamily property.

Before investing in a multifamily rental property, it is essential to conduct sufficient research. First, investigate the local market to determine if rental units are in demand. You must also estimate the property’s potential rental income and associated expenses. A Milton property manager would be a wonderful resource for determining all of this information. You can proceed with submitting an offer for the property if all is well.

The primary disadvantage of multifamily dwellings is that they require more upkeep and repairs. In order to prevent troublesome tenants, you must carefully screen potential tenants. However, if you are up for the task, a multifamily rental property can be an excellent way to build equity and generate income.

Veterans and active military personnel can finance rental properties in a variety of ways. You have a great choice in expanding your investment portfolio by utilizing special benefits like VA loans and BAH. With a little preparation and research, you can become a prosperous landlord wherever you go and with any type of rental property you choose.

Working with a local rental market expert is one of the best ways for military personnel on active duty or veterans to invest in rental properties. To find out more about the numerous services we provide to investors and potential investors like you, get in touch with Real Property Management Boston! You can contact us online or call 617-522-0099.

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.

The Neighborly Done Right Promise

The Neighborly Done Right Promise ® delivered by Real Property Management, a proud Neighborly company

When it comes to finding the right property manager for your investment property, you want to know that they stand behind their work and get the job done right – the first time. At Real Property Management we have the expertise, technology, and systems to manage your property the right way. We work hard to optimize your return on investment while preserving your asset and giving you peace of mind. Our highly trained and skilled team works hard so you can be sure your property's management will be Done Right.

Canada excluded. Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises.

See Full Details