09/19/2026
Stationed at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River with PCS orders in 2-3 years? Buying in Jacksonville, NC might still make sense, but not just because your mortgage looks like rent or 'real estate always goes up.' Before buying, I'd analyze three exit strategies: selling, renting, or VA loan assumption. Don't let a low down payment fool you – 0% down doesn't mean 0 risk. Building your plan around future appreciation is dangerous. We must consider the worst-case scenario: selling for what you paid. What's your property's resale potential, considering condition, lot size, flood zones, and insurance? Convenient locations for one base might not appeal to buyers for another. And if renting, remember to factor in property management, vacancy, and maintenance – don't just compare mortgage to rent. Let's look at the numbers objectively and think about the exit first.