For military families stationed at Camp Lejeune or New River, the clock starts ticking the day you arrive. With a standard rotation cycle of 2–3 years, you aren't just buying a home; you are buying a short-term asset that needs to perform when Uncle Sam says it's time to go.

Too many service members buy the "dream home" for today, only to find it’s a financial burden when orders drop in 2028. To win in the Onslow and Pender County markets, you need to buy with your exit strategy in mind.

Here is how to scout a property that will serve you as a home now and a profitable investment later.

1. The "Tenant-Proof" Spec Sheet

If you plan to turn your home into a rental when you PCS, you need to buy a home that tenants actually want—and one they can’t easily destroy.

Flooring is King: In 2025, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is the gold standard. It is waterproof, scratch-resistant (essential for the pet-heavy military tenant pool), and looks like hardwood. Avoid wall-to-wall carpet in high-traffic areas; it will need replacing after every tenant, eating your profits.

The "Golden" Bedroom Count: Data for Sneads Ferry and Holly Ridge shows that 3-bedroom/2.5-bath and 4-bedroom homes have the lowest vacancy rates. Two-bedroom units often sit on the market longer, as they don't fit the typical family profile of incoming E-6s and O-3s.

Fenced Yards: In our market, a fence isn't a "nice to have"—it’s a requirement. Over 70% of renters in our area have pets. A fenced yard commands a rent premium of $50–$100/month.

2. The "Future-Proof" Location: The Hampstead Bypass

Real estate appreciation is often about predicting infrastructure. The Hampstead Bypass (US-17 Bypass) is the biggest game-changer in our region, and knowing the timeline gives you an edge.

The Intel:

• Northern Segment (NC 210 to North of Hampstead): Scheduled for completion in late 2027.
• Southern Segment (NC 140 to NC 210): Construction is active, with full completion expected by 2030.

The Strategy: Buying a home in Hampstead or Holly Ridge now means you are buying before the commute becomes a breeze. By the time you PCS in 2028, the northern leg will likely be open, slashing commute times to Lejeune and instantly boosting your home's resale or rental value.

3. The Math: Will It Cash Flow?

Don't guess; calculate. Before you offer, run the numbers for 2028.

Property Management: If you aren't staying local, you will likely hire a property manager. In Onslow/Pender counties, the standard fee is 8–10% of monthly rent, plus a tenant placement fee (usually half a month's rent).

The Cap Rate Reality:

Scenario: You buy a townhome in Sneads Ferry for $240,000.
Mortgage: ~$1,750/mo (PITI).
2025 Rent: ~$1,900/mo.

The Verdict: After management fees (~$190), you’re slightly cash-flow negative today. However, with typical 3–5% yearly rent increases, by 2028 rent could reach $2,100+, pushing you into the green while your tenant pays down your principal.

4. The "School District" Safety Net

Even if you don't have kids, your future buyer probably does.

The "Purple Star" Effect: Pender County Schools (Topsail district) have earned the Purple Star designation for their commitment to military families, making neighborhoods in Hampstead and Surf City perpetually high-demand.

The Risk: Buying in a district with lower ratings—common in some rural areas of Onslow County—can significantly increase your Days on Market when you sell.

5. HOA Landmines

This is the most common mistake we see. You find the perfect townhouse, only to discover the HOA has a rental cap.

The Trap: Some communities limit rentals to 10% or 20% of units. If the cap is met, you cannot rent your home when you move, forcing you to sell even if the market is down.

The Fix: We read the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) before you even make an offer to ensure you have the unrestricted right to lease the property.

The Bottom Line

A military move is stressful enough without worrying about a house that won't sell or rent. The goal is to leave North Carolina with an asset that pays you a monthly dividend, not a bill.

At Aspyre Realty Group, we specialize in "PCS-Proof" properties. We can show you the neighborhoods where the rental demand is bulletproof and the HOA bylaws are investor-friendly.