Last updated: September 2025
Quick Answer
Buying near Fort Hood remains an affordable and strategic choice for military families and investors. Home prices are accessible, rental demand is strong, and competition is steady. But even in a moderate market, getting preapproved with your VA loan is essential to stay competitive and move quickly.
What the housing market looks like near Fort Hood in 2025
Fort Hood is one of the largest military installations in the country. Located in Central Texas near Killeen, Copperas Cove, and Harker Heights, the area offers a mix of suburban neighborhoods and rural homes—all within commuting distance of the base.
In 2025, the local housing market is:
- Affordable: Median home prices in Killeen hover around $210,000, well below the state average.
- Moderately competitive: Homes stay on the market an average of 25 to 35 days.
- Investor-friendly: High demand for rental homes due to frequent PCS (Permanent Change of Station) moves.
- Stable: A military presence provides a consistent base of housing demand, even when broader market fluctuations occur.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer using a VA loan or a seasoned investor looking to buy and rent, the Fort Hood market offers strong value and steady returns.
Why VA preapproval is essential before house hunting
If you’re buying with a VA loan near Fort Hood, getting preapproved isn’t just a formality; it’s your entry pass to the market. Here’s why:
- Homes sell fast: Even with moderate competition, sellers expect fast-moving offers. A preapproval letter demonstrates your seriousness.
- BAH eligibility varies: Lenders use your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) as qualifying income. Preapproval confirms how much house you can afford.
- Seller confidence: In military towns, sellers often prioritize VA buyers, but only those with documented preapproval.
- Streamlined PCS timing: If you’re relocating, a preapproval helps you align your home purchase with your reporting date.
To get preapproved, you’ll need:
- Proof of military service (e.g., DD-214 or current LES)
- Recent pay stubs or BAH documentation
- A Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Bank statements and credit check
Salute Mortgage can help streamline this process for active-duty and veteran buyers, often in 24 hours or less.
Housing options near Fort Hood
You’ll find a wide range of homes near Fort Hood, including:
- New construction in master-planned communities
- Starter homes in established neighborhoods
- Larger single-family homes are ideal for multi-member households
- Duplexes and small multifamily properties that can serve as both residence and investment
Popular areas include:
| Location | Average Price (2025) | Typical Commute to Base | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Killeen | $225,000 | 10–15 minutes | Urban/suburban mix |
| Copperas Cove | $235,000 | 15–20 minutes | Small-town feel |
| Harker Heights | $275,000 | 10–15 minutes | Family-friendly, upscale |
| Nolanville | $260,000 | 15–25 minutes | Quiet and rural |
These cities offer proximity to Fort Hood, VA-eligible homes, and access to good schools and amenities.
Using your VA loan near Fort Hood
The VA loan program is ideally suited for military homebuyers relocating to Fort Hood. Here’s how it helps:
- Zero down payment: Buy a home with no upfront cash required.
- No PMI: Avoid private mortgage insurance, even with less than 20% down.
- Lenient credit requirements: VA lenders generally accept scores of 620 or higher.
- BAH = income: Your monthly BAH counts toward your loan approval amount.
Let’s say your BAH is $1,900/month and you have no major debts. You could qualify for a mortgage of $250,000 to $280,000, depending on lender guidelines and residual income.
Rental demand and investment potential
Due to the constant rotation of service members, rental demand near Fort Hood remains high year-round.
Many military families prefer renting over base housing due to:
- Waitlists for on-post housing
- Desire for more space or amenities
- Ability to choose preferred school districts
If you’re considering a VA-eligible multifamily home (like a duplex or fourplex), you may be able to:
- Live in one unit
- Rent out the others
- Use rental income to offset your mortgage, if the lender allows
This strategy is increasingly popular among military real estate investors stationed near Fort Hood.
Market conditions: Days on market, inventory, and trends
Compared to hot metro areas like Austin or Dallas, the Fort Hood housing market moves at a sustainable pace. Here are a few key metrics from late 2025:
- Average days on market: 30
- List-to-sale price ratio: 98–99%
- Inventory: Around 2.5 months of supply, indicating a mild seller’s market
- Price growth: Moderate, with 3–4% annual appreciation
These conditions make it an ideal time to buy before rates rise further or local inventory tightens.
How to prepare for a PCS home purchase
If you’re relocating to Fort Hood, start your prep 60–90 days before your move date. Use this checklist:
- Get preapproved for a VA loan
- Order your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Connect with a real estate agent familiar with VA purchases
- Research neighborhoods based on schools, commute, and amenities
- Set a target monthly payment based on your BAH
Timing your purchase to coincide with your report date ensures a smoother transition—especially if you’re trying to avoid temporary lodging or renting on a short-term basis.
FAQ: Buying near Fort Hood
It’s moderately competitive. Homes often sell within 30 days, so preapproval and quick decision-making are important.
Most homes range from $200,000 to $275,000, depending on size and location. That keeps them well within VA loan limits.
Yes. Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is counted as income by most VA lenders, which helps you qualify for more.
Yes. The constant PCS cycle creates strong rental demand in the area, making it a smart location for VA-eligible investors.
Preapproval shows sellers you’re financially ready and speeds up the buying process. It’s especially important in a military market like Fort Hood.
Ready to buy near Fort Hood?
With its affordable home prices, active rental market, and stable demand, buying near Fort Hood can be a smart investment—whether you're relocating or looking to invest.
But timing matters. Getting preapproved ensures you're ready to act fast when the right home hits the market.
Buying near Fort Hood? Start your VA loan preapproval now.
