MilHousingPlaybook™

Sources: DFAS / DoD BAH tables · Last updated May 2026

Knowledge Center

Top Questions Answered

Plain-English answers to the most common military PCS housing questions — built for first-time buyers, seasoned PCS pros, and everyone in between.

How It Works

How MilHousing Playbook turns BAH, base pay, debts, and PCS timing into housing recommendations you can trust.

Want the full breakdown? Read the complete How It Works methodology →

Should I Rent or Buy?

The right answer depends on PCS timeline, cash reserves, local market, and how flexible you need to stay.

Should I Live On Base?

On-base housing trades flexibility and BAH for convenience, predictability, and a built-in community.

Should I Keep My Home as a Rental?

Renting your home after PCS can build long-term wealth — but only if cash flow, vacancy, and distance risk pencil out.

How Much House Can I Afford?

Lender approval is the ceiling. Your real military-safe budget sits well below it.

What Is BAH?

Basic Allowance for Housing — your tax-free monthly housing stipend, tied to location, rank, and dependents.

What Is a VA Loan?

A VA loan is a no-down-payment mortgage backed by the VA, designed for eligible service members, veterans, and surviving spouses.

What Are Closing Costs?

Closing costs are the one-time fees due at the finish line — typically 2%–5% of the purchase price.

First-Time Military Homebuyer Questions

Plain-language answers to the questions every first-time buyer asks before signing.

PCS Buying & Renting Decisions

Short tours, rental conversion, lender approval vs personal affordability, and PCS-specific risk.

VA Loan Entitlement & Funding Fee

Using VA benefits more than once, understanding entitlement, and how the funding fee affects your loan.

Refinancing Your Mortgage

When refinancing actually saves money — and when it just resets the clock.

MilHousing Playbook is an educational tool and does not provide financial, legal, or tax advice.