Welcome & Congratulations on your move to Dyess, AFB and Abilene, Texas! You may be thinking to yourself, where in the world have I let myself be transferred to....but I assure you, you have come to one of the best places to live in America! Abilene is known for how friendly it's people are...especially to our Dyess Airmen! I've always said, "it may not be the prettiest place to live, but it's definitely the friendliest!" One of the first things that you are going to need is housing. You are probably debating whether or not to rent or buy. Investment wise, buying a home in Abilene is a very good choice. Interest rates are down and values of homes are going up. If you are going to be in Abilene for three years or more, you should definitely look into buying. If you are going to be in Abilene for 2 years, you might want to consider the following: *New Construction - When you buy new construction, you are paying top dollar. New construction typically depreciates before it appreciates, and new construction sells from $75 to $100 a square foot. Most often you will be looking at additional costs of landscaping, lawn, blinds, and possible sprinkler system & fence...depending on your deal with the builder. *Your best bet may be to buy an existing property. You can get a much bigger home (more sq. footage!) this way....and one can always update! Make sure the neighborhood you are looking at is in a good re-sell area. (I can help you determine this!) Also, don't be afraid to ask the seller to pay your closing costs. If you are using your VA entitlements to buy a home, you might be able to get into a home for "0" dollars. *Work with a "Buyer's Agent"! You need someone on your side that can answer questions for you and look out for your best interests in a real estate transaction. Before you start the homebuying process, find yourself a Buyer's Agent. *If you will only be in Abilene a short while, consider buying and they renting your home afterwards. There are significant tax benefits to this avenue.