Skip to Content

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

Bozeman Active-Duty Military Member with Her FamilyIf you are a veteran or active-duty military member interested in rental property investments, then this article is what you need! Bozeman rental properties can be a terrific way to safeguard your financial future and increase equity. Before beginning, there are a few things you should be aware of. This manual will walk you through the fundamentals of buying rental properties as a service member or veteran. We’ll also go over some pointers to make finding and purchasing investment properties simpler. This guide has something for everyone, whether you are a novice or a seasoned investor in rental properties!

Invest with a VA Loan

If you are a veteran, you might qualify for a VA loan. With no down payment and lower interest rates, this loan type is a great option for buying rental properties. To qualify, you must fulfill a number of requirements and earn enough money each month to pay your mortgage. If you qualify, a VA loan can be a fantastic way to finance the purchase of a rental property.

There are also disadvantages associated with VA loans to consider. If you put less than 20% down on the house, for instance, you might have to pay for private mortgage insurance (PMI). The county in which the property is located also affects the maximum amount you are permitted to borrow. Therefore, you might not be able to use a VA loan if you’re looking at rental properties in expensive areas.

Additionally, you must be aware of the occupancy requirements. After purchasing the property, you or a qualified tenant must live there as your primary residence for at least a year. Following that, you can lease it to tenants. You might have to pay a penalty or have the loan terms changed if you leave the property before the year has passed, though.

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 allowance that is used to defray some of the cost of renting a home. Your pay grade, duty station location, and whether you have dependents all factor into this decision. BAH can be used as a down payment on a rental home if you’re looking for one close to your place of employment.

Being on active duty in the military and possessing valid orders for a permanent change of station (PCS) are requirements for BAH eligibility. Additionally, you will need proof of income and sufficient funds for a down payment on the rental property in order 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. These residential properties may be duplexes, triplexes, or fourplexes. They have the potential to attract more tenants and charge higher rent. Veterans who intend to live in one of the units themselves may use VA loans to finance a multi-family building.

It’s important to research a rental property with multiple families before making an investment. To determine whether there is a demand for rental properties, first, analyze the local market. Additionally, you will need to calculate the property’s potential rental income and expenses. A Bozeman property manager would be a great resource to help you find all of this information. You may proceed with making an offer on the property if everything checks out.

The main weakness of multi-family homes is the rising maintenance and repair costs. To avoid problematic tenants, you’ll also need to thoroughly screen applicants. Although, if you are willing to face the challenge, a multifamily rental property can be an ideal way to accumulate equity and create revenue.

There is a wide selection of financing options available to veterans and active-duty military personnel for the payment of rental units. Growing your investment portfolio is a fantastic option for you when using special benefits like VA loans and BAH. With some research and planning, you can become a successful rental property owner regardless of where you live or the type of rental property you desire.

Collaborating with a local rental market expert is one of the most effective ways for veterans and veteran members to invest in rental properties. Contact Real Property Management Bozeman to learn more about the multiple services we provide investors and prospective investors like you! You can contact us online or call 406-586-2226.

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