Investment Properties for Military Near Fort Knox

Fort Knox creates a unique real estate investment opportunity: a steady, rotating population of renters who arrive every year, need housing immediately, and have guaranteed income (BAH) to pay rent. For military members thinking about building long-term wealth, investment properties near Fort Knox are worth serious consideration.

Why E-town Is Good for Military Investors

• Steady rental demand: Fort Knox's constant PCS rotation ensures a permanent pool of tenants
• BAH-backed income: Military tenants have reliable, government-guaranteed housing income
• Low purchase prices: E-town's affordable market means low entry costs for investors
• Positive cash flow: The gap between purchase costs and rental income is favorable
• Appreciation: Steady 3-5% annual appreciation provides equity growth

VA Loan Considerations

Important: VA loans are for primary residences only. You cannot use a VA loan to purchase a pure investment property. However, you can:

• Buy a home with your VA loan, live in it during your assignment, then rent it out when you PCS
• Buy a multi-unit property (up to 4 units) with VA financing, live in one unit, and rent the others
• Use conventional or investment property financing for a second property while keeping your VA-financed primary residence

The "Buy, Live, Rent" Strategy

This is the most common military investment approach:

1. Buy a home with your VA loan when you PCS to Fort Knox
2. Live in it during your assignment (satisfying the VA occupancy requirement)
3. When you PCS out, convert it to a rental property
4. Hire a property manager to handle tenants and maintenance
5. Your BAH-level rent from the next military tenant covers the mortgage
6. Repeat at your next duty station

Best Investment Neighborhoods

• Helmwood Heights — Affordable, family-friendly, high rental demand
• Ring Road area — Central, convenient, appeals to a wide range of renters
• Radcliff — Closest to post, highest military tenant concentration
• Pear Orchard — Family-friendly, near schools and shopping

Property Management

Unless you're staying in the area, you'll need a property manager. Expect to pay 8-10% of monthly rent for professional management. A good property manager handles tenant screening, rent collection, maintenance, and legal compliance. Several property management companies in E-town specialize in military rentals.