It is very common to see automotive, gas stations, and dry cleaners that have environmental issues which can get expensive beyond belief.If you want to do whats called a desktop review or RSRA report to see what kind of environmental issues the property may have please let me know.

When I was working in Maine and NH, I recall petrol stations dispensing both kerosene and furnace oil (really diesel) and folks buying 5usg  containers to heat their homes for the day.

So glad you found Bigger Pockets - I've seen quite a few recent posts from new members either stationed in Europe or recently transitioned from Europe to the US...If you haven't already - be sure to plug into the Bigger Pockets podcast.

I've been very fortunate enough to be able to buy a house as a primary residence every time I move to a new duty location...except for my last duty station.

It's East of College Park, North of Hyattsville and West of the New Carrollton Metro station.

I do have the great benefit of using the VA loan however, where I am stationed now we are already renting a place.

Drove around there last night and found that the area by queen lane station has a lot of potential.  

As an example, if a couple brokers say that it should be a gas station, ask them to speak to a few gas station developers who may be interested and work out a partnership with them or pay them as consulting fee for helping you set it up.

Hello All, I am currently going through growing pains in my knowledge of investing in real estate, for the past 12+ years i have bought 7 properties as primary residences when i would switch duty stations along my career.

I have no idea how long they will be stationed at this base so who knows where they will be sent next.