Military homebuyers face a unique set of circumstances and challenges when buying a new house. A knowledgeable Military Real Estate Agent who understands the process and the complexities of purchasing a home with a VA loan is vital. Retired Navy Captain Eric Gardner launched his real estate career to help active duty and veteran families find stability in homes and build wealth through property ownership. His personal experience fuels his passion – he received 13 permanent change of station (PCS) orders during his military career, moving on a moment’s notice.

Having the right real estate agent to guide buyers through the process is crucial for service members, says retired Marine 1st Sgt. Duan Rockette. He recommends a professional who is certified through the Military Residential Specialist (MilRES) program, which educates agents on the specific needs of the military community. This includes factors like housing allowances, PCSing considerations, and application processes for mortgages backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Finding a Home: The Role of a Military Real Estate Agent

When assessing an agent, military families look for someone who can provide insights into local neighborhoods and schools, commute times and future resale value. They also want an agent who communicates effectively – either in person, by phone, text or email. A strong communication strategy is particularly important for those serving overseas, explains Rockette.

In addition to the military-specific credentials, many agencies and brokerages work with specialized networks that serve the military community. The MilHousing Network, for example, has more than 3,000 prescreened real estate and mortgage professionals across the country who specialize in working with military homebuyers and sellers.