Today, let's talk BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) pay and how it affects a mortgage payment for our Military families. Many families (and even single people) find it a better deal for them to buy than for all their BAH to go toward living on base. As a Realtor here in Altus, I am seeing more and more Air Force families moving here turn to buying instead of renting or living in base housing.
For example, an E-5 (SSgt) at Altus AFB will get $822/mo for BAH. For about $800/mo, you can purchase a home that costs $120,000 on 30 year mortgage with a 4.25% interest rate (I know that mortgages have been coming in lower lately, but this is just an example). In Altus, that can get you a pretty great home!
1904 Tyler in Altus $108,000
Another example would an O-3 (Capt) at Altus AFB. He/she will have a monthly BAH of $1092. With a home that is around $185,000, you could come in right around a monthly mortgage pymt of $1085 and also be able to purchase a large home or even a newly constructed home and live comfortably within your means.
1800 Cougar Circle in Altus $184,900
I know a factor that often comes into play is not knowing when you will be PCS'ed to another duty station and not knowing what you do with the house when you move. Many people still find success in selling here in Altus, but others choose to rent for several years as a source of income and a way to keep building equity in the home. In Altus, nice rentals are a hot commodity and do not stay vacant for long, if at all. There never seems to be enough of them!
If you are moving into Altus or you know someone who is, I'd love to talk to them about all their options for housing in the area! I specialize in Military relocation and, as an Air Force spouse, I offer a perspective on Military moves that you won't get from someone who has not personally been through one! I look forward to talking with you soon!
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