Looking to get back in the game, Fort Riley, Kansas

[Anna W.]

My husband and I had a short lived, several year experience as property owners including a duplex and a condo in two different states. We went through a few tenant turnarounds and sold the properties due to me starting law school. My husband is in the military and pcs'ing to Fort Riley, Kansas next month. We are thinking of getting back into the market. 

How is the market in surrounding areas of Junction City and Ogden? We are not familiar with the area at all. We are thinking of buying my husband a small 1-2 bedroom with cash. Schools are not an issue (except for future renters) and we are looking for a generally safe area. We are from Waianae, HI and have lived off base in Fayetteville NC so we are not looking for SUPER safe, just generally an okay neighborhood. 

Also wanting feedback if we should just do cash or get a loan and get a multi/duplex. We would not be able to do a VA loan because my husband's contract is up next summer.

Thanks!