Finding a rental home isn't always as simple as spotting a listing you like and submitting an application. Military families often search for homes from hundreds or even thousands of miles away, work within tight PCS timelines, and compete in unfamiliar housing markets.
Whether you're touring homes in person or relying on virtual showings, it's easy to overlook important details when you're moving quickly. That's why it helps to have a rental checklist before you start your search.
Use these tips to evaluate military rentals, compare properties, and ask the right questions before signing a lease.
1. Set Your Budget
Before you begin your rental home search, calculate what you can realistically afford each month. Your Basic Housing Allowance (BAH) is only one part of the equation, as is the monthly rental rate. Utilities, internet service, renters insurance, parking fees, pet costs, and security deposits can add up quickly.
Setting a clear budget that encompasses your monthly expenses early in the search can help you avoid falling in love with a property that stretches your finances too thin. It also makes it easier to compare homes objectively and narrow your options.
Find current BAH rates with this BAH calculator.
2. Research the Neighborhood
The home is important, but so is the community it’s in. Before committing to a rental, familiarize yourself with the surrounding area. Consider your commute to base, access to schools, healthcare facilities, grocery stores, and other everyday necessities.
The best way to search for rental homes near your duty station is by searching on MilitaryByOwner! Then, join local military spouse groups or community forums to gather insights from residents. MilitaryByOwner resources, online maps, virtual tours, and neighborhood reviews can also help you get a feel for an area before you even arrive.
3. Look Beyond Aesthetics
Wondering what else to check before renting a house?
When you tour military rentals, look past the cosmetic details to analyze the home's overall condition. Open doors and windows to make sure they work properly, test faucets and showers for water pressure, and look carefully for signs of water damage, mold, or leaks. Check ceilings, walls, and flooring for excessive wear or damage that isn't visible in listing photos.
Ask about the HVAC system and how old it is, verify that the home has working smoke detectors, and ensure that the appliances are functional. You can use photographs to compare properties later and record any issues before moving in, if you select that property.
4. Review Maintenance Policies
Maintenance can significantly affect your quality of life while renting a house. Before signing a lease, ask how maintenance requests are handled and what response times you can expect.
Learn who's responsible for specific repairs and whether there is an on-site property manager or a dedicated maintenance team.
5. Ask About Lease Terms
Review lease terms carefully so you understand your responsibilities as a tenant.
Pay particular attention to the term length, extensions, maintenance responsibilities, guest policies, and any pet policies (more on that in a minute). It's also a good idea to understand how the lease handles early termination due to military orders.
6. Understand Pet Policies
If you have pets, don't assume every rental advertised as "pet-friendly" has the same rules. Some landlords restrict certain breeds or enforce weight limits. Others may charge pet deposits, monthly pet rent, or nonrefundable fees.
7. Prepare Your Application
You’re not alone if you’re wondering how long rental home or apartment applications take. Processing times for applications differ depending on the landlord and property management firm, but typically take under a week.
Gather these important documents for your rental application:
- Government-issued identification
- Proof of income or LES
- Employment verification
- References
- Rental history information
- Pet records (if applicable)
The Bottom Line When Searching for Rental Homes
By using the same criteria to evaluate each property, you can make more objective comparisons and avoid overlooking important details.
Include on your rental home checklist:
- Monthly housing costs and budget considerations
- Neighborhood research
- Property condition
- Repair and maintenance procedures
- Lease terms and policies
- Pet policies
- Application requirements
The best way to search for rental homes comes from careful research, thorough inspections, and a clear understanding of your needs and priorities. With a little preparation and the right questions, you can find a home that supports your military lifestyle, fits your budget, and feels like home from day one.
