Property Owner's Guide to Military Tenants: Benefits and Best Practices

Military tenants can be excellent renters for property owners. With guaranteed housing allowances, stable employment, and a culture of responsibility, service members often make ideal tenants. Here's your guide to successfully renting to military personnel.

Why Military Tenants?

Reliable Income

Military tenants offer unique advantages:

• Guaranteed BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing)
• Stable government employment
• Regular payment schedule
• Known income levels

Professional Standards

Service members typically:

• Maintain high personal standards
• Respect authority and contracts
• Have security clearances
• Value property maintenance

Understanding Military Housing Benefits

BAH Basics

Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) provides:

• Monthly housing allowance
• Utility cost coverage
• Location-based rates
• Rank-based amounts

Example BAH Calculation:
E-5 with dependents in San Diego:
- Monthly BAH: $3,255
- Covers rent and utilities
- Adjusted annually
- Direct deposit available

Making Your Property Military-Friendly

Essential Features

1. Lease Flexibility

   • Military clause inclusion
   • PCS order accommodation
   • Deployment considerations
   • Short-notice moves

2. Property Amenities

   • Storage solutions
   • Parking space
   • Security features
   • Easy maintenance

Documentation Requirements

Required documents include:

• Military ID verification
• Orders (if applicable)
• Leave and Earnings Statement
• Command contact information

Best Practices for Military Landlords

1. Understanding Military Clauses

Essential lease components:

• PCS order provisions
• Deployment accommodations
• Early termination terms
• Security deposit handling

2. Communication Protocols

Establish clear:

• Chain of communication
• Emergency contacts
• Maintenance procedures
• Inspection schedules

3. Property Marketing

Target your audience:

• List on military websites
• Highlight base proximity
• Showcase military-friendly features
• Mention BAH compatibility

Screening Military Tenants

Verification Process

1. Check military status
2. Verify BAH rate
3. Review service record
4. Contact commanding officer

Red Flags to Watch

• Reluctance to provide documentation
• Inconsistent military information
• Pressure for immediate move-in
• Unusual payment requests

Setting Up Your Lease

Key Components

• Clear military clause terms
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Utility arrangements
• Pet policies
• Parking rules
• Noise regulations
• Guest policies

Special Considerations

1. Deployment Plans

   • Property maintenance during absence
   • Power of attorney arrangements
   • Communication procedures
   • Emergency contacts

2. PCS Possibilities

   • Notice requirements
   • Property turnover process
   • Security deposit return
   • Final inspection timing

Maintaining Your Property

Regular Maintenance

• Scheduled inspections
• Preventive maintenance
• Quick response to issues
• Professional services

Documentation

• Inspection reports
• Maintenance records
• Communication logs
• Photo documentation

Financial Considerations

Setting Rent Rates

• Research local BAH rates
• Compare market prices
• Consider utilities
• Plan for expenses

Security Deposits

• State law compliance
• Fair calculation
• Clear terms
• Prompt returns

Building Long-Term Success

Creating Military-Friendly Policies

1. Flexible Lease Terms

   • Month-to-month options
   • PCS clause inclusion
   • Deployment provisions
   • Transfer accommodation

2. Support Services

   • Local area information
   • Base transportation details
   • School district info
   • Community resources

Conclusion

Renting to military tenants can be a rewarding experience for property owners. Understanding their unique needs and circumstances, while maintaining professional standards and clear communication, creates a win-win situation for both landlords and tenants. Stay informed about military housing policies and maintain good relationships with local base housing offices for continued success.