Relocating to San Antonio
I would like to welcome all of you who are relocating to one of the military bases in the San Antonio area. San Antonio, Texas is one of the largest consolidated military areas in the world. Being ex-military myself, I know that military relocation is inevitable and getting moved and settled in quickly is important. The first step to successful military relocation in understanding what is available in the area where you’re relocating. I have included information about housing available for both on-post and off-post living, as well as some of the amenities of the area. On-Base Housing At Brooks Air Force Base, there are dorms available for single E-1 through E-3, and 170 family units. At Fort Sam Houston the Fort Sam Houston Family Housing provides soldiers and their families with high quality housing units in communities on base. Lackland Air Force Base has dorms for single E1-E4 and there are 720 family housing units on the base. Randolph Air Force Base has 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom apartments and about 1,020 housing units available. As you can imagine, on-base housing is often full. Off-base Housing San Antonio, TX in enjoying a booming economy primarily due to tourism and the San Antonio Real Estate market has many options for the military families relocating to the area. In 2008, the average sale price of a home in San Antonio, TX was $76,335. If you’re looking to live off-base and would like to purchase a home in an area near the base where you will be stationed, I can help you with the information you need to make the process much easier. For instance, a VA Loan would provide opportunities to get more out of your home investment. In most cases, it is easier to qualify for a VA loan than to obtain a conventional loan and usually there is little to no down payment needed. I will be glad to assist you with the information you need to make the right decision for your family. Hospitals The Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston is part of the US Army Medical Command. It is also a University of Texas Health Science Center and a teaching hospital. Its history dates back to 1879 when it was actually a small medical dispensary in a wooden building. Today BAMC is a Level I Trauma Center. Wilford Hall Medical Center is the Air Force’s largest medical facility and provides complete care not only to military patients, but also to patients who are referred from all over the world. Schools There are three school systems in San Antonio with schools located on the bases to serve the families. For the on-post families, Fort Sam Houston Independent School District, The Lackland Independent School District, and Randolph Field Independent School District provide quality education to students of military families. In addition to those three Districts, the Harandale Independent School District, which is located on the south side of San Antonio, provides education to the students of military personnel stationed at the various bases. Key Attractions There are many things to do and see in the greater San Antonio area. Among them are the Alamo, the River Walk, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, and the McNay Art Museum, plus much more. Many former military personnel make San Antonio their home after retiring from military service because of the mild climate. There is easy access to major military facilities where they can get the most out of their of retiree benefits, such as commissary privileges and health care. With the cost of living in San Antonio 75% lower than the national average, you can be assured your dollars will go a lot farther in terms of housing and other relocation costs. Wondering About Commute Times? I believe that you are going to find San Antonio as great a place to live as I have! When you have questions or you need assistance from someone who understands your challenges, call me at 210-807-0819, or send an email. We'll get you settled before you know it! Brenda |