Newbie Serving in the Military

[Jennifer Santana]

Hello everyone!

My name is Jen and i am currently stationed overseas. I am hoping to do twenty years in the Army. My plan after that is not have to work for anyone else and live off passive income and of course the check that Uncle Sam gives to those who do twenty. Nobody in my first duty station told me anything at all about real estate. I had an average mindset on finances (did not encounter the idea of having my money make me more money). That all changed in my current duty station. I had my NCO (in other words my boss for those outside of the Army) tell me about rental properties. A few more told me about theirs and I was fascinated from the start. The plan is to buy my first one next year after I pay off my debt. In the mean time I am just trying to learn as much as I can! Very thankful to have found Bigger Pockets. 

[Walter Key]

16.5 years in the Navy here! For you "youngins" that are just starting out, let me give you the advice I wish I would have gotten 10+ years ago. BUY every time you transfer. Use your VA eligibility first then move on to NFCU's Active Duty Choice program. DO NOT miss an opportunity to purchase a property for nothing out of your own pocket. Be selective; make sure you buy knowing that a few years later it's going to be an investment. Don't overspend and don't fall in love with a "home" that you know is really just an investment in the making. Buy something you can live comfortably in but that you have room to add some instant equity to by touching up little things over the time of your tour to increase your re-sale and rental potential. Best of luck and thanks for serving!