Retirement from the military is finally on the horizon — first of all, congratulations.
After years of PCS moves, base housing, and countless “new beginnings,” you’re probably ready to plant some roots and settle down.
But here’s the big question many military families face:
Where do we live now?
Do we buy, rent, or build?
What happens to our VA loan benefits after retirement?
If that sounds familiar, take a deep breath — you’re not alone.
As a military wife and El Paso Realtor, I’ve walked alongside many families navigating this exact transition. Here’s how to make your housing decisions during retirement smooth, smart, and stress-free.
Step 1: Figure Out Where “Home” Is Going to Be
This might sound obvious, but it’s not always easy. After years of moving, “home” can mean a lot of different things.
Ask yourself:
- Do we want to stay close to our last duty station, like Fort Bliss?
- Are we heading back to our hometown to be near family?
- Or are we ready to move somewhere completely new?
If you’re not sure yet, consider renting for a year. It gives you time to explore, adjust to civilian life, and see what feels right before committing to a purchase.
Step 2: Use Your VA Loan Benefits — You’ve Earned Them
A huge misconception is that VA loan benefits expire after retirement.
They don’t. Your VA home loan benefits last for life, and you can use them again (and again) — even in retirement.
Here’s why that’s a game changer:
- No down payment required (in most cases)
- Competitive interest rates
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Flexible qualification standards
If you’ve built up steady post-retirement income, such as a pension or VA disability pay, you may qualify for a comfortable mortgage right away. Many retirees use their VA loan to buy their forever home — somewhere peaceful, near family, or in a place with a slower pace of life like El Paso.
Step 3: Get Clear on Your Finances
Retirement changes your financial picture. You might have:
- A military pension
- VA disability income
- A civilian job or side business
- Savings or investments
Before you start house shopping, talk to a VA-knowledgeable lender who understands how to calculate these types of income.
They’ll help you figure out what price range fits comfortably — without stretching your retirement budget.
Step 4: Decide If You Want to Build or Buy
Building a home can be a dream come true after years of base housing, but it’s not the right move for everyone.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Building:
- Customize everything
- New systems mean fewer repairs
- Takes longer (4–8 months or more)
Buying:
- Move-in ready
- Established neighborhood
- Usually less stress
If you decide to build, you can still use your VA loan with certain builders and approved lenders — just make sure they’re familiar with the VA process.
Step 5: Think Long-Term
You’re not just buying a home for today — you’re choosing a space that fits your next chapter.
Consider:
- Accessibility (one-story floor plan, wider hallways)
- Proximity to medical care or VA facilities
- Space for family visits
- Property taxes and maintenance costs
Even if you’re feeling young and energetic now, planning ahead can save you from major headaches later.
Step 6: Work with a Realtor Who Understands Military Life
Not all agents understand the unique needs of military families — but that’s where I come in.
When you work with a Realtor who’s lived the military life, you get someone who:
- Understands PCS timelines and benefits
- Knows how to maximize your VA loan
- Understands the emotional side of settling down after service
Whether you’re retiring from Fort Bliss or moving across the country, I can help you transition from base life to your dream home with confidence.
Bottom Line
Retiring from the military is a major life milestone — and your housing choice should reflect your next adventure, not your past stress.
Take your time, use your hard-earned benefits, and make decisions that give you freedom, stability, and peace of mind in this next chapter.
