Military PCS Orders to Norfolk VA

[Matthew Hime]

My wife has orders to Norfolk and we plan to PCS next summer, so I'm getting a head start on reasearching the market. I'm looking for some advice on where to buy a home. Ideally, I'd like to buy a SFH or small multi unit with a VA loan where we can buy at a discount or force appreciation with some renovations while living there to gain equity quickly, then rent it out or sell when we move.

Any advice on some areas with a reasonable commute to the Naval Station, good schools and low crime? We have two young children with our oldest starting kindergarten there.

Thank you all for your help