Norfolk
Closest to the base. Older neighborhoods, many near the water.
PCS to Virginia
Buying a home near Naval Station Norfolk
Where do military families live near Naval Station Norfolk?
Most Naval Station Norfolk families live in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake or Portsmouth. With a VA loan you can buy in any of them 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 Naval Station Norfolk
Virginia Beach
The largest city in the area, also close to NAS Oceana and Little Creek. A wide range of neighborhoods.
Chesapeake
To the south. Suburban, with bigger lots, and popular with families.
Portsmouth
Across the Elizabeth River. Older homes, often at lower prices.
Suffolk
Farther west. More space and newer homes, with a longer commute.
Hampton and Newport News
Across the water on the Peninsula. Commutes depend on the bridge-tunnel.
Local tip
In Hampton Roads, tunnels and bridges shape your commute more than distance does. Drive the route at rush hour before you buy, and check the flood zone on every home.
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.
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.
Shop from where you are
Tour homes by video with a local agent, and use house-hunting leave if you can get it.
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.
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.
Naval Station Norfolk questions
Straight answers
Does it matter which side of the water I live on?
Yes. Commutes in Hampton Roads often run through a tunnel or over a bridge, and traffic can turn a short distance into a long drive. Pick a home with your actual route in mind.
Can I buy near Naval Station Norfolk 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 at sea, a specific power of attorney can let your spouse sign.
Can my BAH help me qualify?
Yes. Lenders can count BAH as income. Your BAH rate for the Norfolk area is on the official DoD lookup, and we'll use it in your pre-approval.
Get started
Orders to Naval Station Norfolk? 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.