Buying vs. Renting near Fort Bragg, NC: What Military Families should now

If you’re PCSing to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, or settling into the Fayetteville area, you are probably wondering: should you buy, live on base or rent off base your next home?

Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) plays a huge role in that decision. BAH is a monthly allowance provided to service members to help cover housing costs — whether you live on base or off base. Understanding how to use it wisely can help you turn your move into a long-term financial advantage.

Here’s a look at the three main housing options near Fort Bragg — and how each one fits into your military lifestyle.

1. Live on Base

Living on base offers convenience, security, and proximity to work — perfect for families who want structure and community.
At Fort Bragg, on-base housing is managed by Corvias Property Management.

For the most current wait times, floor plans, and neighborhood details, visit Corvias Property Management online.

Pros:

• Close to work and base amenities

• Maintenance included

• No commute stress

Cons:

• Limited choices, availability and waitlists

• No opportunity to build equity or own property

2. Rent off Base

Many military families choose to rent in nearby communities like Fayetteville, Hope Mills, Raeford, Spring Lake, and Cameron and many more surrounding areas. 

Renting can be a great short-term solution if you’re new to the area or unsure how long you’ll be stationed here.

Pros:

• Flexibility for short PCS orders

• Minimal responsibility for maintenance or repairs

• Many pet-friendly options and family neighborhoods 

• If rent is lower than BAH allowance, service memeber can pocket the difference

Cons:

• Your monthly payment builds your landlord’s equity, not yours

• Rent prices may increase over time

• Less control over long-term stability

When renting off base, always work with a licensed realtor to verify legitimate listings — especially with so many rental scams appearing online. Realtors can confirm who manages a property and ensure your lease is secure and legitimate.

3. Buy a Home near Fort Bragg

For many military families, buying a home near Fort Bragg is one of the smartest ways to invest your BAH.

Home prices in Fayetteville, Hope Mills, and Raeford are significantly lower than the national average, offering a chance to build equity while you serve. With VA loan benefits and historically strong resale demand, homeownership can be a powerful financial move.

Pros:

• Build equity and long-term wealth

• Use your BAH to pay down your own mortgage

• Potential to rent or sell when you PCS again

• Tax advantages and VA home loan benefits

Cons:

• More responsibility for upkeep

• Upfront costs (inspection, closing, insurance)

• Market fluctuations can impact resale timing

When the time comes to PCS again, your home can become an investment property — offering rental income or value growth for your next chapter.

Check your BAH Rate

Before you decide whether to buy or rent, look up your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to see what your monthly budget covers in the Fort Bragg and Fayetteville area.

👉 Click here to look up your current BAH rate

💬 Your Local Real Estate Experts

Whether you’re buying, renting, or just exploring your options near Fort Bragg, the Signature Group Reaty Team at Keller Williams Fayetteville NC understands the military lifestyle — and how to make your move a smooth one.

We proudly serve Fort Bragg, Fayetteville, Hope Mills, Raeford, Spring Lake, and Cameron, and many more surrounding areas helping service members and their families find homes that fit both their needs and their future goals.

No matter where you are in your journey — whether you’re just exploring, ready to buy, or deciding if renting makes sense — let’s have a conversation about what’s best for you and your family.

📞 Contact The Signature Group Realty Team at Keller Williams Fayetteville NC to learn how to make the most of your BAH.
📍 Serving Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, Raeford, Hope Mills, and surrounding areas

📧 Need advice about PCS timing or VA benefits? We are here to help 👉 Click here

The Signature Group Realty Team — Fort Bragg NC & Fayetteville NC real estate experts for VA, PCS, and first-time home buyers.