The 2009 Basic Allowance for Housing Rates (BAH) have been published for active duty military members.  For military families moving to Fort Belvoir, Quantico, Pentagon or other duty stations in the Northern Virginia, DC and MD areas the new rates are an increase of an over last year's rates.

For those who are not familiar with BAH, the rates are based on the median rental rates in the area and may not cover what a service member pays in a monthly mortgage if they decide to buy a home while stationed in the area.  The median rental rate includes not only the rent but average utilities and the cost of rental insurance. 

It is not uncommon in our area to have military members stationed at the Pentagon choose to live in Prince William or even Stafford County where home prices or rental rates may be lower.  However they still will receive the BAH rate for the Pentagon.  DC is one the 350 Military Housing Areas (MHA) that looks at the rental market data within one hour's commuting distance in rush hour traffic.

If you have orders to any of the local military installations in Northern Virginia, DC or MD give me a call.  I can help you find a home that will give you the maximum use of your 2009 BAH rate, whether it is buying or renting!  I've walked in your shoes all around the world and know how difficult the transition to a new area can be.