Investing In Military Areas

[Jimmy Smith]

I am currently looking to take my first leap into REI. I've had a few ideas as to what I want to do and have decided that rental properties and the BRRRR strategy are what I need to focus on to achieve my goals. The market I currently live in -Long Island, NY- is very expensive and I believe after running some numbers my best bet is to invest in the south. I also believe I should invest where I was stationed there.

Here's my thought process in (a condensed version of) pros and cons.

Pros:

-I have an agent I trust, with whom I served with at the end of my enlistment. He also has connections to help me build my team.

-Inexpensive, the numbers are great.

-Large, consistent renter population.

-I'm familiar with the area.

Cons:

-Appreciation in the area is low.

-Flooding could be an issue if there is a big storm. It has happened in the past and stifled the appreciation.

I'm just curious on other's thoughts on investing in military areas. Any input would be appreciated, especially from those who have invested in these areas.

Thanks!

[Frank Geiger]

Jimmy,

I would like to add, while not common, that some bases shutdown, training numbers fluctuate, or brigades move and that can severely hurt the population of these small military towns. 

Some bases have strong lineages and I would absolutely invest there. It's funny how rent around those areas are in line with BAH. You can always get their Commander as a reference that way if they don't pay rent you know who to call. 

Best Of Luck!