Should I use the VA loan, rent or stay on post? Is renting really less beneficial than buying?

I am in the Col Springs area - property value is going up here - so I would suggest not buying a home here, unless you plan on staying here after you separate. Renting is not bad, as I am renting an APT. the key is location and affordability. If you can get on post, that is not a bad way to go, especially if you plan on getting out, or staying in for that matter because you will eventually PCS again.

SGT Porter, yes the cost of purchasing a house if going up. Fort Carson is a sellers market. However, if you are going to be stationed at Fort Carson for 2-3 yrs, maybe even more, it would be in your best financial interest to purchase a house. You will earn equity, and your even make a little profit when you PCS next, or maybe you can keep your property as a rental property. Using you VA is a great way to purchase a house, I have purchase over three houses using VA, their zero down policy and no PMI insurance is a great money saving program. Remember you can use your VA as many times as you need to, as long as the previous property has been sold and paid off on its entirety. When I was stationed there my real estate agent was Susan Koutantos, she was awesome and she is all about taking care of the soldiers, veterans and their families, if you are interested in finding out more about renting or buying in Colorado Springs, I would advise you to speak to a real estate agent... if you like you could email her at [login to see]

Both renting and buying have their pros/cons. It's just what pros/cons are you willing to deal with. I will not stay on post ever again if I can avoid it due to the fact that I can buy for less per month than all my BAH being taken for rent on post.
If you're planning on another PCS move, then renting a small apartment may be your best course of action. My wife and I purchased a house here in Fountain with the idea of retiring here (May 2020). But a short vacation to South Padre Island, TX instantly changed that idea.