Carlsbad, CA–I grew up a military brat, and our youngest son Mark enlisted in the Armed Forces last fall. Hence, it should come as no surprise that I have a big soft spot in my heart for military folk–and especially for those who are in financial trouble because of the collapse in the San Diego real estate market.
Military homeowners who were relocated to Camp Pendleton, North Island Naval Air Station, Miramar Naval Air Station and the Marine Corps Recruit Depot may be relieved to hear that they may be eligible for special and deserved relief for their real estate troubles–thanks to the recent stimulus package.
The Department of Defense Homeowners’ Assistance Program is administered by the US Army Corps of Engineers and was initially established to aid military homeowners displaced by base closings (BRAC 2005). Seeking ways to assist military families who have fallen victim to the near-pandemic real estate crisis and falling home values, the HAP may be able to assist military homeowners with PCS orders who are unable to sell their homes without sustaining a substantial loss.
The aid may also be available for wounded soldiers who need to relocate for medical reasons, as well as the surviving spouses of fallen military men and women. According to Military.com, a temporary $555 million has been allocated to help cover private home sale losses of both military and civilian Department of Defense personnel. The program will help reimburse the losses sustained by those who lose money on the sale of their homes due to forced relocation.
It is reported that the Department of Defense may elect to cover up to 95 percent of the real estate losses sustained (if home was purchased prior to 07/01/2006)–or may elect to purchase the home at 90 percent of “fair market value.”
I would advise San Diego military homeowners to watch the HAP site closely for developing news regarding these real estate benefits–and would appreciate a heads-up from any readers who have more updated information.
Also:
How to Help Out Solders in Afghanistan