Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson
KEY CONTACTS
Housing Management Office
6346 Arctic Warrior Drive
JBER-E, AK. 99506
PH: (907) 552-4439
Aurora Military Housing
Privatized Housing
PH: (907) 753-1023
Base Family Services
JBER-E Military & Family Readiness Center
8535 Wewak Drive
Bldg 8535
Anchorage, AK 99506
PH: (907) 552-4943
JBER-R Military & Family Readiness Center
600 Richardson Drive, Rm A139
JBER, AK 99505
PH: (907) 384-1517
School Support Services
600 Richardson Drive, Rm A117 & A119
JBER, AK 99505
PH: (907) 384-7500/1505
Most installation services will be available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. As always, call first to confirm hours and availability of services.
Helpful hint: Contact these offices early in the week during the morning time
About JOINT BASE ELMENDORF RICHARDSON
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) is adjacent to Anchorage, Alaska, and covers more than 79,000 acres. Pronounced “J-Bear,” the joint base is home to the Alaskan Command (ALCOM), Alaskan NORAD Region (ANR), Joint Task Force-Alaska (JTF-AK), Eleventh Air Force (11 AF), the 673rd Air Base Wing, the 3rd Wing, the 176th Wing, United States Army Alaska (US), the 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, and nearly 70 other tenant units.
When you think of Alaska, you probably think of snow and lots of it. The white stuff starts falling in October and lasts until April. Be sure to buy some quality winter gear to handle below-freezing temperatures and invest in snow tires with studs! The climate may take some getting used to, but with the weather comes lots of winter sports. JBER’s Hillberg Ski Area offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and even dog sled rides. About an hour from Anchorage, the town of Girdwood is a winter sports paradise and home to the luxurious Alyeska Resort and the slopes of Mount Alyeska.
There isn’t a traditional spring in the 49th state; instead, people refer to April and May as “thaw down” and warn of the brown slush that comes with the transition to summer. The warmer months are also known for an influx of tourists and the ramping up of construction projects. Perhaps because of the abundant snowfall (the city averages 75 inches of snow a year), cabin fever pushes folks outdoors as soon as the weather warms up. Otter Lake, located on JBER, is a popular spot for skating and ice fishing in the winter and, in the summer, is used for paddle boating, kayaking, and canoeing, and it even has a paintball course.
Though the Last Frontier can be cold, the warmth of the Anchorage community compensates for the chilly weather. People rave about the friendliness of the locals and note the surprising diversity of the area. Anchorage is also particularly welcoming to young children. JBER’s library receives kudos for its children’s programming, and high schoolers have a unique experience available to them with the Civil Air Patrol.
Elmendorf AFB
Though merged in 2010, JBER residents still delineate the Fort Richardson side of JBER and the Elmendorf Air Force Base side. The Elmendorf side includes a large BX, commissary, and the Elmendorf Medical Center, one of the top medical centers in the Air Force.
The installation schools, run by the Anchorage School District, are highly-regarded and serve students from kindergarten through sixth grade. There are two elementary schools on the Elmendorf side—Aurora and Orion.
MWR (Outdoor Recreation) runs a bowling alley and a great fitness center, and there are two shopettes on the Air Force side.
The Boniface Gate offers the most direct access to Elmendorf and is the main gate for Air Force folks, while two small gates—Government Hill Gate and Post Road—connect JBER to Downtown. All gates are accessible from the Glenn Highway.
Fort Richardson
The Army’s home at JBER, Fort Richardson, is located on the east side of the installation.
This side of the installation has two popular amenities for families: the JBER library, noted for its excellent children’s programming, and an indoor aquatic center.
The two schools on Fort Richardson, Ursa Major, and Ursa Minor, serve kindergarten through sixth-grade students. Like the schools on the Air Force side, they are run by the Anchorage School District and have an excellent reputation.
The Fort Richardson Gate is the main entrance to JBER, with a large visitor center. It is the main access point for those traveling from Eagle River and the Valley. The Muldoon Gate is smaller but provides close access to the hospital.
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Nearby Neighborhoods
Popular Neighborhoods
Anchorage
About
Anchorage is Alaska's largest city and home to 40 percent of the state's population. You can find all the comforts and amenities you would expect from a major city—like a happening restaurant scene, fascinating cultural sites, and ample shopping—with the bonus that Anchorage is "five minutes away from Alaska," as the locals say.
The wonders of the Last Frontier are at your doorstep in Anchorage. The city boasts numerous parks and wildlife sightings are common. Be prepared to see the occasional moose roaming around and bald eagles soaring overhead. The magnificent Tony Knowles Coastal Trail stretches 11 miles from downtown Anchorage along the Alaska coastline. Chugach State Park borders the south boundary of the city and offers hiking, biking, and other activities in its nearly half million acres, including the stunning Portage Glacier.
The cost of living is high in Anchorage, and it is one of the few locations in the U.S. where military members receive COLA (Cost of Living Allowance). Expect to pay more for everyday items like groceries, gas, and furniture. On the flip side, Alaska has relatively low taxes and no statewide sales tax.
The people of Anchorage are known for being welcoming. Many were newcomers themselves at one point. After all, Alaska only became a state in 1959, and people are generally accepting of new arrivals.
Neighbors
Anchorage tends to attract adventurers and is, therefore, very diverse. In addition to a large military population, there is a significant Native American population and a sizable contingent of oil industry employees.
The community is welcoming to newcomers and more tight-knit than you might expect in a major city. Expect to see those you frequently know when you're out and about!
Neighborhood Feel
Homes in Anchorage vary widely and range from large, upscale homes to tiny apartments above stores. Tight quarters are expected, with many duplexes and townhomes. You won't find many historic homes in this relatively young city. Some parts of Anchorage are pedestrian-friendly, but you will need a car in most areas.
Commute
Most locations in Anchorage offer an easy commute to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, located on the city's northern side. There can be some congestion, but expect a short, manageable drive to JBER from anywhere in Anchorage. Especially in the winter, when snow is a constant reality, many consider easy access to JBER a significant advantage to living in Anchorage.
South Anchorage
Populated by the upwardly mobile, South Anchorage is the most upscale of the areas around JBER. This high-brow spot enjoys a higher standard of living, but you will pay a premium for the location.
This well-established area is home to many military members (usually officers), politicians, and oil industry employees. Neighbors are generally affluent and often stay in the neighborhood for many years. Homes are beautiful but do not offer the acreage you will find farther out of town. People like the upscale vibe and appreciate the top-notch schools.
Nearby Flattop Mountain in Chugach State Park is one of the few hiking spots in town and is the most climbed mountain in Alaska. Also, close by is the Alaska Zoo and H2Oasis, a massive indoor water park. From May to October, the South Anchorage Farmer’s Market offers fresh local produce from more than 30 vendors and live music.
Homes
Homes here are large, primarily single-family ranch and split-level styles. The neighborhood is safe and great for families, and the nearby schools are well-maintained.
Schools
Families are attracted to South Anchorage for the top-rated schools. The public schools are in the Anchorage School District (ASD). The area hosts several of the district’s world language programs, including Japanese immersion at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. There is also a charter school with a German immersion program -- the Rilke Schule German School of Arts and Sciences.
Commute
The commute from South Anchorage to JBER is favorable, with the Seward Highway linking the two. The area is convenient to both the base's Fort Richardson and Elmendorf sides.
Muldoon
Muldoon, also called East Anchorage, is a bustling area with the convenience of being close to both JBER and Downtown. This popular neighborhood is named after Muldoon Road, a major thoroughfare in northeast Anchorage.
A sought-after community for military families, this area is only a couple miles from JBER and is considerably less expensive than nearby South Anchorage. Muldoon has many amenities, including a movie theater, the famous Tikhanu shopping center, and Krispy Kreme—big news recently! Other fun spots include the many downtown shops: Fred Meyers, Snow City Cafe, Glacier Brewhouse, Muse, Orso, Sack’s Cafe, and the White Spot—known for delicious halibut sandwiches.
Most homes are duplexes, condominiums, or apartments, but pockets of older homes appeal to young families. The area is popular with military members, and there is ample rental inventory. Residents are a mix of families, young married couples, and single folks. The area is densely populated, and you will probably be on a postage-stamp-sized lot. Like most urban areas, you may find more crime here than in some more rural areas, especially as you get closer to post. We recommend you research crime statistics and avoid renting or buying sight unseen. If you’re looking from afar, an AgentHero or Scout can be your boots on the ground.
Homes
You can find pockets of older single-family homes in the area. Duplexes are common, as are zero lot line homes (a home that comes up to the edge of the property line). One quiet neighborhood popular with young families is tucked behind the movie theater.
Schools
Public schools in Muldoon are in the Anchorage School District (ASD). One of the area’s charter schools, Winterberry Charter School, offers a Waldorf-style education (emphasizing a child’s imagination) for kindergarten through eighth-grade students. The local high school, Bartlett High School, does not enjoy as favorable a reputation as others in the district.
Commute
You can’t beat the location of Muldoon for access to JBER. Commutes of ten minutes are common, even in the winter months, and residents don’t have to worry about traffic tie-ups on the Glenn Highway. The Muldoon gate is centrally located for easy access to both sides of JBER.
Midtown
This well-situated area is central to the city, with many parks and one of the lowest crime rates in Anchorage. The University of Alaska-Anchorage (commonly called UAA) is in the Midtown area, along with three hospitals. Their presence has led to the area also being called U-Med.
Midtown is a safe, moderately-priced housing option, and many families choose to live in this area. It is solidly middle-class and sometimes referred to as “the working man’s downtown.”
Convenience abounds in Midtown, with two Wal-Marts and a Costco. The popular Moose’s Tooth is a favorite local hangout.
Homes
Housing styles vary, with duplexes, split levels, apartments, and high rises all common. There is a good amount of new construction in the area as well.
Schools
Public schools in Midtown are in the Anchorage School District (ASD). Anchorage Christian School is a private school attached to the Anchorage Baptist Temple and is a popular choice for those seeking a private education option.
Commute
The area is congested, and you can expect decent traffic. However, the commute is not tricky since Midtown is geographically close to JBER.
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Downtown
The downtown area is the central business district of Anchorage and a hub for employment. It also has a more urban feel than other parts of the city. Downtown is home to the performing arts center, the courthouse, two convention centers (frequent sites of military balls), and the 5th Avenue Mall.
A booming industry serves the seasonal influx of tourists, and street vendors hawking souvenirs abound—moose poop earrings, anyone? Downtown is also the departure point for the train to Denali, a popular activity for visitors and locals. It also serves as the docking point for the almost constant barrage of cruise ships passing through during summer.
This area is more of a commercial and tourist hub than a residential hotspot and tends to attract more single people and young professionals than families. With a focus on workers and tourists, some might find it lacking in residential conveniences.
Homes
Condos and apartments are the norm, and the area has a more commercial vibe than a residential feel.
Schools
The public schools in Downtown Anchorage belong to the Anchorage School District (ASD). One option is Chugach Optional Elementary, a charter school with a progressive educational philosophy.
Commute
There is easy access to the Elmendorf side of post via two nearby gates.
Area Info | Anchorage
Points of Interest
- Alaska Zoo
- H2Oasis Water Park
- Potter's Marsh
- McHugh Creek Hike
- Flattop Mountain Trail
- Beluga Point
- Reflection Lake
- Moose's Tooth Restaurant
- Bear Tooth Theatre/Pub
- 5th Avenue Mall
- Performing Arts Center
- Imaginarium Discovery Center
- Ship Creek
Big Plus
- Anchorage combines city life's conveniences with the unique aspects of living in Alaska. You have urban amenities, but the vast wilderness of Alaska is at your doorstep.
- This is a diverse city that is welcoming to newcomers. From immersion schools to opportunities to learn about Native culture, time spent in Anchorage can broaden your worldview.
- The natural splendor of Alaska is on full view in Anchorage, with many parks around town.
- Those who come to Alaska with an open mind thrive and get a lot out of the experience.
- Virtually any spot in Anchorage offers an easy trip to JBER. Avoiding the Glenn Highway is a significant advantage for in-town commuters.
- Anchorage's varied neighborhoods have an option for everyone, from apartments for young, single military members to upscale neighborhoods for affluent families.
- Alaska does not have a state income tax or collect a state sales tax. Expect your paycheck to be a little fatter if you become a resident.
Things to Consider
- Living in Anchorage means living near your neighbors. Expect small lot sizes, with zero lot lines standard.
- The cost of living is high, and, like many urban areas, crime is a fact of life.
- Garages (especially of the heated variety) make life in Alaska much easier. Many apartments and duplexes don't include a garage, so consider carefully whether this is an amenity you are willing to forego.
- Access to post is a consideration not just for the commuting service member but also for medical care. Healthcare in Alaska is notoriously expensive, making Tricare Prime a better option for most.
- The long winter with limited daylight hours can be harsh. Both cabin fever and seasonal affective disorder are real concerns; being proactive about planning activities during the cold weather can help keep spirits up when the thermometer dips down.
How’s the Market?
- Researching a faraway area and finding a home in the Lower 48 can be daunting. Having an experienced agent is of tremendous value in this borderline-foreign market! When all you have are photos and Internet listings to go by, it can be an incredibly stressful undertaking.
- If you’re interested in renting, don’t feel you are limited to renting sight unseen. Like any urban area, you’ll find pockets of neglect that may get glossed over in real estate listings. Ask for a Facetime walk-through, neighborhood “recon,” or extra photos of the property you’re interested in.
School Scoop
- The public schools in Anchorage are part of the Anchorage School District. One of the highest-rated schools is Chugach Optional Elementary School.
- ASD offers many educational models for students, including elementary Montessori, open-optional secondary, international baccalaureate, and world discovery schools. Charter schools are an option in the Anchorage School District. Partial immersion and language classes are available in several Japanese, German, Russian and Spanish schools.
- The Anchorage School District provides Title I, Kids’ Corps Inc. (KCI) Head Start, Migrant, and Special Education preschool classrooms at certain schools within the district. You must call the school to determine if your student is eligible.
- Students can apply for a school zone exemption and enter a lottery if they wish to attend a school or program outside their assigned neighborhood school.
Highlighted Areas
- Southport (including Discovery Heights, Discovery Park, Hidden Cove, Lookout Landing, Mariner Point, Seclusion Bay, and Seclusion Cove) - South Anchorage
- Kempton Hills - South Anchorage
- Independence Park Apartments - South Anchorage
- Indian Hills - Muldoon
- Huntwood Park - Muldoon
- Northeast - Muldoon
- Tudor East - Midtown
- Defiance - Midtown
- Image Circle - Midtown
- Rogers Park - Midtown
By the Numbers
- Population: 291,241
- Household Income: $82,716
- Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for local market analysis.
Eagle River
About
There’s always a “best of both worlds” kind of place; for Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, that place is Eagle River. This suburb has more of a small-town, family-friendly feel than Anchorage but is close to the freeway for easy commuting. This safe, military-friendly community offers award-winning schools and many attributes that make it a favorite among military families.
Eagle River is the shopping hub between Anchorage and the Valley, with plenty of local amenities. The area is also well situated for taking advantage of all the outdoor opportunities Alaska offers. Beautiful hikes and even a park in Birchwood act as a training area for dog mushers for the Iditarod.
Though Eagle River is the most significant spot between Anchorage and the Valley, there are other residential pockets, including Chugiak (pronounced CHOO-gee-ak), Birchwood, and Peters Creek. Chugiak is notable as the home of the Birchwood Shooting and Recreational Park, the largest rifle, pistol, and shotgun range facility in Alaska.
Neighbors
Eagle River is very popular with military members, drawn to the shorter commute and small town feel. Families flock to the area, but singles and young couples may find it a bit sleepy.
Neighborhood Feel
Less urban than Anchorage but not as rural as the Valley, Eagle River offers an abundance of beautiful, unique homes. Single-family homes and townhomes are the norm, but be prepared to get cozy with your neighbors—lots are relatively close.
Commute
Eagle River to JBER is a straightforward commute on the Glenn Highway, avoiding most of Anchorage. Driving from the Valley takes longer, but residents of Eagle River still need to consider that volume is heavy during rush hour, and any accidents can significantly lengthen the commute. It is also worth noting that there are no alternate routes into Anchorage, so a shutdown on the Glenn could ruin your day.
Area Info | Eagle River
Points of Interest
- Eagle River Nature Center
- Downtown Saturday Market
- The Ulu Factory
- Winter Creek Trail Hand Tram
Big Plus
- Great schools, low crime, plentiful parks, short commute times, and friendly neighbors make peaceful Eagle River a perfect fit for many families.
- Offering all the amenities one expects from suburbia, the area is also an easy commute to JBER.
- Outdoors fans will find lots to do and see in Eagle River, including several stunning hikes.
Things to Consider
- The area is densely populated and can feel crowded. Homes are close to one another, and lots are smaller than you’ll find in the Valley.
- Though the commute is much shorter than from Palmer or Wasilla, residents still have to contend with the often congested Glenn Highway.
By the Numbers
- Population: 28,462
- Household Income: $112,912
- Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for local market analysis.
School Scoop
- The public schools in Eagle River belong to the Anchorage School District (ASD). One of the highest-rated schools is Eagle Academy Charter School.
- ASD offers many educational models for students, including elementary Montessori, open-optional secondary, international baccalaureate, and world discovery schools. Charter schools are an option in the Anchorage School District. Partial immersion and language classes are available in several Japanese, German, Russian and Spanish schools.
- The Anchorage School District provides Title I, Kids’ Corps Inc. (KCI) Head Start, Migrant, and Special Education preschool classrooms at certain schools within the district. You must call the school to determine if your student is eligible.
- Students can apply for a school zone exemption and enter a lottery if they wish to attend a school or program outside their assigned neighborhood school.
Highlighted Areas
- Eagle Crossing
- Brandywine
- Stonehaven Townhomes
- Eaglewood
The Valley
About
The Matanuska-Susitna Valley, more commonly known as “the Mat-Su” or simply “the Valley,” is a vast area north of Anchorage. The region includes two towns that draw military members north—Wasilla and Palmer. About 45 minutes to an hour from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in ideal conditions, these towns are appealing due to the more rural feel and spacious lots. Housing dollars go further in the Valley, and many residents are attracted to the quieter feel.
Residents here tend to appreciate the outdoors and move to the Valley to escape the urban feel of Anchorage. Alaska’s awe-inspiring splendor is on display nearly every day, with majestic Denali visible from most parts of the Valley.
The commute to JBER is a significant consideration when living in the Valley. There is a single thoroughfare connecting Anchorage and the Valley—the Glenn Highway—and accidents or tie-ups can significantly lengthen an already long commute.
Neighbors
Valley residents are likely to be permanent residents or on an extended tour of duty. There is less turnover, and your neighbor might be a military retiree who made the Valley a permanent home. The area is excellent for families but is not as appealing to single military members due to the commute and the more rural feel. Most residents own rather than rent.
Neighborhood Feel
Homes are spread out, especially in Palmer. There are a lot of farms in the region, and lot sizes of an acre or more are common. Wasilla is less rural but still offers the opportunity to spread out. Apartments, duplexes, and triplexes are available in Wasilla.
Palmer
About
Palmer is a quiet place with a small-town vibe. The area appeals to those who are looking for a little more space. You won't find big box stores here, but you will find plenty of open spaces and a sense of town pride. Palmer residents actively maintain the town's heritage and take pride in the region's agricultural importance.
Palmer is best known as the location for the Alaska State Fair, which takes place every August. Along with carnival rides, fair food, and a concert series, the fair has a reputation for showing record-breaking vegetables—giant cabbage; anyone?
Homes
Palmer offers primarily single-family homes on large lots. Expect to see a lot of farmland around town.
Schools
Schools in Palmer belong to the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District. One of the highest-rated schools is Academy Charter School.
Commute
The commute to JBER from Palmer is significant. In ideal conditions, the Fort Richardson side of JBER is at least 40 minutes away, and the Elmendorf side is an hour away.
Wasilla
About
Wasilla offers a small-town vibe but has more conveniences to offer than nearby Palmer. Large single-family homes with plenty of amenities can be easily found, along with apartments, duplexes, and triplexes. The rental market is more robust than in Palmer.
Many military members make a home in Wasilla, drawn to the great outdoor activities and large homes. Lots sizes of an acre or more are common, allowing residents to spread out.
Homes
Homes in Wasilla vary, with single-family homes, townhouses, and duplexes all commonly found. Large lots are readily available.
Schools
Schools in Wasilla belong to the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District. One of the highest-rated schools is Midnight Sun Family Learning Center. Wasilla also offers an alternative high school, Burchell High School.
Commute
Traffic leaving Wasilla becomes heavy around 5:30 a.m., and the roads leading to the Glenn Highway are often congested. Expect a commute time of at least 40 minutes to JBER. Winter commutes can be longer.
Area Info | The Valley
Points of Interest
- Reindeer Farm - Palmer
- Pioneer Falls - Palmer
- Lazy Mountain - Palmer
- Musk Ox Farm - Palmer
- Independence Mine Historical Park - Wasilla
- Iditarod Headquarters - Wasilla
- Wasilla Creek Wetlands Trail - Wasilla
- Alaska Museum of Transportation and History - Wasilla
Big Plus
- Many feel the Valley offers a more authentic Alaska experience than Anchorage. Land for outdoor activities is plentiful, and there are more options for hiking, snowmobiling (or snow machining, as you'll more likely hear in Alaska), fishing, etc.
- Without Anchorage's city lights, the Aurora Borealis' majesty is more visible in the Valley.
Things to Consider
- The drive to JBER can be long, especially in the winter months. The Glenn Highway is the only road in and out of the Valley, and any accidents can wreak havoc on an already lengthy commute.
- Palmer and Wasilla can be windy, making the already cold winters feel downright frigid.
- The highway authorities are good about clearing snow and making the road passable in the winter, but experience driving in winter conditions and studded snow tires are
recommended. Due to the shorter winter days, commuters travel in the dark during the winter months, adding to the challenge of the drive.
How’s the Market?
- Researching an outlying area and finding a home in the Lower 48 can be daunting. Having an experienced AgentHero is of tremendous value in this borderline-foreign market! When all you have are photos and internet listings to go by, it can be an incredibly stressful undertaking.
- If you’re interested in renting, don’t feel you are limited to renting sight unseen. Like any urban area, you’ll find pockets of neglect that may get glossed over in real estate listings. Our Scouts can help you with a Facetime walk-through, neighborhood “recon,” or by taking extra photos of the property, you’re interested in.
School Scoop
- The public schools in the Valley belong to Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District (MSBSD).
- Elementary schools are broken into kindergarten through second grade in one building and third through fifth grades in a nearby building.
- Homeschooling families have resources available through programs at MatSu Central, IDEA, and Twindly Bridges.
- Homeschooling is very popular, and funding is available.
- The district offers six charter schools, including Academy Charter School in Palmer and Fronteras Charter School, a Spanish immersion school in Wasilla.
Highlighted Areas
- Equestrian Acres - Palmer
- Snow Goose Pond - Palmer
- The Ranch - Wasilla Settlers Bay - Wasilla
- Heritage Farms - Wasilla
Looking at relocating?
Enter your information below and we will reach out to help the process.
7 Reasons You Should Consider Buying a Home
1. TAX ADVANTAGES
To encourage homeownership, the IRS has provided many tax breaks for owning a home. Credits may be available for specific home improvements, such as using clean energy or for qualified first-time home buyers. The way most homeowners see those advantages is through income tax itemization and deductions like mortgage interest and real estate taxes.
2. STABALIZE MONTHLY HOME COSTS
Owning your own house is one of the safest bets on stabilizing your monthly home costs. There’s no worry of rent getting increased significantly after each year of living in someone else’s home. Additionally, when you answer to yourself, there is no worry of landlord changes or unexpected lease termination.
3. HOUSE HACKING
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
4. Increased Privacy
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
5. Pets Are Welcome!
For those who choose to rent instead of buying, it can be extremely difficult to find rentals who allow for your
four-legged, furry friends. Landlords often require hefty pet deposits or place heavy restrictions on the number of pets and breeds they allow—if they will even allow pets. When considering quality of life, including beloved pets and the indoor and outdoor space available to them matters. Having the flexibility to include ALL members of your family as a homeowner is priceless!
6. Pride of Ownership
One of the greatest benefits of owning your own home is the pride of ownership that comes along with it. Not only are homeowners more inclined to take good care of their investment with routine maintenance and cleaning, but also they are free to make design choices ranging from hanging artwork on the walls, to paint colors, to customization of closets, electronics, and more. As military families who relocate frequently, having your home reflect who you really are feels important.
7. Safe and Stable Long Term Investment + Forced Savings
Owning a home has historically been one of the safest, lowest risk financial investments that tends to have long-term stability and success. As your home value appreciates and your mortgage balance decreases, what’s left is growing equity with an eventual paid off home. Making a monthly house payment is akin to setting aside a specific amount each month into a savings account—it’s a little difficult to access in the moment, but over time it can build into something significant in the form of equity.
FIVE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU IN YOUR RELOCATION PROCESS
Your PCS is underway!
The home buying and moving transition process has begun. Now what? If it feels like there are a million things to do, don’t fret because you don’t have to do them all yourself. During the relocation process, there are many service providers that can assist you in making your move a smooth one.
Consider these five resources to help you in the process
1. MOVING COMPANIES
Sure, the military offers transportation and relocation services, but many service members decide to coordinate the transfer of household goods themselves. Not only can you often earn money on the difference between moving costs and weight allowances, but you can be assured that you have more control over your belongings. Services that moving companies offer can range from delivery of boxes and pods for the “you-pack” model all the way to full-service logistics companies that will do all of the packing, loading, driving, and unpacking for you.
2. STORAGE
Whether you need to store your household goods for a few weeks until you close on your home or you decide that you have more stuff than square footage, storage companies abound. Sizes, conditions, and contracts vary widely so be sure to do your homework before you commit. Particularly in climates with extreme cold, heat, or humidity, it is important to consider using only climate-controlled storage to ensure the protection of your furniture and temporarily unused items.
3. TEMPORARY HOUSING
It is not uncommon for there to be a short gap of time during a military move between when you arrive at your new duty station and your new home being available to inhabit. No longer are hotels the only option for sticking out a few days or weeks during the wait. Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO) and Airbnb are great options to make you feel more at home while you wait for your home. In fact, why not take advantage of seeing your new city through the eyes of a tourist? Find a location near new local attractions and dining and enjoy a few days of getting to know the lay of the land.
4. USPS/IRS
Once you get settled in at your new home, it’s important that you alert agencies that will make sure your current and up-to-date address is on file. The United States Postal Service (USPS) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are two of the most important and by doing so, any important mail or documents in your name should be forwarded or sent along to your new address. It’s also a good idea to notify banks, credit card companies, and other debt collectors of a change of address. These days nearly all of these transactions can be handled online.
5. DISCARD & DONATE SERVICES
No matter how much you purge, toss, organize, minimize, or donate before you pack up the moving truck, it never fails that after you get unpacked on the other side there seems to be more stuff to declutter. Discard and donate services can help with this. Many are a phone call away and will happily come to your residence for a pickup. Others are structured where you simply drop off at a store. A lot of these services are charitable organizations and will offer you documentation for your own taxes based on your donation. It’s a win-win: you downsize by donating, and someone else benefits from your use of your items.
