This is not a trivial process (even assuming that the property has the correct zoning designation for 3 units), as you will need architectural plans approved and will have to pull a major alteration permit (which will trigger the need to bring everything up to fire code - sprinkler system/fire alarm with pull stations/fire-rated doors and sheetrock, etc.).  

@Michael Boyer I've been in 15 years and I've only been able to do this once when I was stationed in Jacksonville, FL.

I was stationed at Ft Stewart for a few years.

I got me start when my wife and I purchased a house at an old duty station with our VA loan.

My husband and I are stationed in Hawaii and plan on buying property around Honolulu.

We've purchased properties near bases where we have been stationed, to include Arizona, Texas, Florida and England. 

We would get off at Ming (I believe was the name of the street), hit McDonald’s or some such place, gas up my mom’s Caddy at the Texaco station and then it was back on the 99!

Should I invest in Houston (hometown) or College Station?

I plan to buy and hold for a few years only, market depending. 4) Not sure how realistic this goal is, but if i shoot for the moon and only hit the international space station, well that's okay, because I'm still way above Everest.

We bought a house in Virginia Beach while my husband was stationed there.