Lesson 2: Resources for Housing Decisions

Part of my moving checklist (see Lesson 1) is to research housing in our new town.  That is a very broad directive, so I want to share my process for doing this.

• Log onto AHRN (Automated Housing Referral Network) to view rental properties at your new base. This website will also tell you this year's BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) at that location. You may want to also peruse Apartments.com or the local classifieds online, if you're feeling particularly motivated.  At this point, I usually just try to get a feel for what is available (supply) and how much it costs.
• If you find a rental that looks good, try to find some reviews.  In my experience, even the unbelievable stories can be accurate.  (Anyone who has lived in Sunridge while at Vance AFB, OK can attest to this!)
•  Contact the base housing office at your new base.  Request information on floor plans, amenities, square footage, and availability of housing.  Sometimes they have a website with this information.  Also ask if it is privatized or not, and how that affects your option to terminate a lease before a year, should you find a great place off-base.
• Use Remax and Zillow.com to research the cost of buying the type of house in which you are interested. Contact a Realtor if you desire more information or a helping hand.
• If you are unsure of whether buying or renting would be the best financial decision, use The New York Times interactive calculator- Is It Better to Buy or Rent?.  Go under the "advanced settings" and adjust the amount the landlord pays in utilities, since they are all included on base.  I usually estimate about $200/month, but it varies based on location. This tool helps you figure out how much time you'll need for your home purchase to save you money.  Keep in mind that the average time at any given base is usually around three years now, at least in the Air Force. Also, remember that promotions make BAH go up, so you may want to put an average BAH for the next three years (add all three dollar amounts and divide by three) into the "rent" box.
• If you are able to take a trip to scout housing prior to your move, do so!  Spending a little bit of time and money to do this has saved me quite a bit of anxiety in the past.  You do not have to make your decision on this trip, but you will collect a lot of valuable information. Your decision will undoubtedly be faster once you have actually moved.
• Location, location, location.  If you are considering living off-base, think carefully about how far away you would like to live.  Some people value separating work and home, while others value being close to the military community and amenities.   If you think living twenty minutes from base will be no big deal, try it out.  Spend a week or two tracking each time you go somewhere on base.  Include a few of the social visits with other on-base friends.  Do the same for your off-base friends and errands.  Having this accurate picture will help you make an educated decision. Consider how much time in driving and extra money in off-base shops you are willing to spend.

Selecting your home for the next three years is a huge decision.  I'll admit, I tend to get a little bit obsessive about picking just the right place.  That said, a few hours of research can save you a LOT of headaches after you move in.