PCS to Alaska

Buying a home near Eielson Air Force Base

Where do military families live near Eielson Air Force Base?

Most Eielson Air Force Base families live in North Pole, Fairbanks or Salcha. With a VA loan you can buy with no money down, and your BAH can count toward qualifying. Start your pre-approval as soon as you have orders so you're ready to make offers before you arrive.

Where families live

Towns near Eielson Air Force Base

North Pole

The closest town with a good choice of homes.

Fairbanks

The larger city, with a longer drive.

Salcha

Small and rural, south of the base.

Good to know in Alaska

Homes outside Anchorage and Fairbanks often have wells, septic systems and oil or wood heat. VA's property standards still apply, so build a little extra time into your PCS plan.

Your PCS timeline

How to buy before you report

Your BAH can count as income when you qualify. Look up your new rate on the official DoD BAH lookup.

  1. As soon as you have orders

    Reach out and get pre-approved. Look up the BAH rate for your new location so you know what fits.

  2. Shop from where you are

    Tour homes by video with a local agent, and use house-hunting leave if you can get it.

  3. Make an offer and close

    You can often sign your closing papers from your current station. If you'll be away, a specific power of attorney can work. Tell us early so we set it up correctly.

  4. Move in

    The VA expects the home to be your main residence, usually within about 60 days of closing. If you're deployed, your spouse living there can count.

Eielson Air Force Base questions

Straight answers

Where do most families live near Eielson Air Force Base?

Most families look at North Pole, Fairbanks or Salcha. The best fit depends on where your unit works, your budget and how much space you want. We can help you compare neighborhoods and commutes.

Can I buy a home near Eielson Air Force Base before I arrive?

Yes. Many families get pre-approved at their current station, tour homes by video and close before or right after they report. If you'll be away, a specific power of attorney can let your spouse sign.

Can my BAH help me qualify?

Yes. Lenders can count BAH as income. Look up your rate for the Eielson Air Force Base area on the official DoD BAH lookup, and we'll use it in your pre-approval.

Get started

Orders to Eielson Air Force Base? Start now.

The earlier you get pre-approved, the more time you have to find the right home. One person on our team will be your point of contact from your current station to closing day.

Call See if I qualify