Oahu is home to several major military installations, including Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Schofield Barracks, Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe, and Fort Shafter. Military families stationed on Oahu face unique real estate decisions, and understanding your options can help you make the most of your time in paradise.

The first decision military families face is whether to live on base or off base. On-base housing has improved significantly in recent years through privatization programs, offering modern amenities and the convenience of being close to work. However, off-base housing provides more choices, potential equity building, and the opportunity to immerse your family in the local community.

VA loans are one of the most powerful tools available to military homebuyers. VA loans offer zero down payment, no private mortgage insurance, competitive interest rates, and more lenient credit requirements. In Hawaii's expensive real estate market, the VA loan benefit can save military families tens of thousands of dollars on their home purchase.

The VA loan limit in Honolulu County is higher than the standard conforming loan limit, reflecting the area's high cost of living. This means military buyers can purchase more expensive homes with their VA benefit than they might be able to in other parts of the country. Some lenders also offer VA jumbo loans for properties that exceed the standard limit.

Location is especially important for military families, as your daily commute to base can significantly impact your quality of life. Popular neighborhoods for military families include areas near their respective bases. Families stationed at Schofield often choose Mililani or Wahiawa. Those at JBPHH might prefer Aiea, Pearl City, or Ewa Beach. Kaneohe Marines often look in Kailua or Kaneohe.

BAH rates for Oahu are among the highest in the country, but they may not always cover the full cost of housing in every neighborhood. Understanding your BAH rate and how it compares to housing costs in different areas of the island is crucial for budgeting.

If you decide to buy, consider whether you will keep the property as a rental when you receive orders to a new duty station. Oahu's strong rental market and consistent demand from incoming military families make it an attractive option for building a rental portfolio. Many military families have built significant wealth by purchasing homes at each duty station and converting them to rentals upon departure.

Selling your home when you receive PCS orders requires planning. Starting the selling process early, working with an agent who understands military timelines, and pricing competitively can help ensure you do not get stuck with a property when you need to move.

At Kristy and Austin Home Group, we have extensive experience working with military families on Oahu. We understand VA loans, PCS timelines, BAH considerations, and the unique needs of military homebuyers. Contact us today for a personalized consultation about your Oahu housing options.