Planning your next home after service
Bowie gives retirees and separating service members access to DC-area employers, VA care and a wide range of home styles, including main-level living.
Things to plan for
- Your VA loan can be used again after service.
- Main-level living: see our guide to main-level living in Bowie.
- Maryland’s disabled veteran property tax exemption: how it works.
- Selling a current home: Home Value Pre-Check.
Who you will work with
Bruno Tarquinii, REALTOR® with Fairfax Realty Premier, handles the search, the offer and the negotiation. Noël, a disabled Navy veteran who continues to serve, makes sure the plan fits military life: report dates, TLE, house hunting leave and moving on a deadline.
Common questions
Can I use my VA loan after I retire?
Yes. VA loan eligibility continues after service, and entitlement can often be restored after you sell.
Does Maryland have a property tax exemption for disabled veterans?
Yes. Maryland offers a property tax exemption for veterans with a 100 percent service-connected disability rating, among other benefits. Confirm details with the state.
Are there single-level homes in Bowie?
Yes. Bowie has many ramblers and homes with main-level bedrooms.
Can you help me sell and buy at the same time?
Yes. Bruno can line up your sale and purchase so the dates work.
Why retirees from service look at Bowie
Bowie keeps you close to Joint Base Andrews for commissary, exchange, pharmacy and medical access, while giving you a quieter residential setting and access to DC, Annapolis and Baltimore. Many retirees also continue working as DoD civilians or contractors in the region.
Maryland taxes for military retirees
- Retirement pay: Maryland has expanded its subtraction for military retirement income in recent years, with larger amounts for retirees age 55 and older. Check the current limits with the Comptroller of Maryland or a tax professional.
- Property tax for disabled veterans: Maryland offers a full property tax exemption on a principal residence for veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability rating, and for some surviving spouses. Apply through SDAT.
- Homestead Tax Credit: limits how much your taxable assessment can rise each year on your primary home.
Using your VA loan again
VA loan eligibility does not expire at retirement. If you have used it before and paid it off, or still have remaining entitlement, you may be able to buy again with little or nothing down. Veterans receiving VA disability compensation are generally exempt from the VA funding fee.
Home features retirees ask about
Main-level bedroom suites, step-free entries, low-maintenance yards and townhouses with HOA exterior maintenance are common requests. See accessible homes in Bowie for features to look for and questions to ask.
More questions
Is military retirement pay taxed in Maryland?
Maryland allows a subtraction for military retirement income, with a higher amount for those 55 and older. Confirm current limits with the Comptroller.
Can I use my VA loan after retiring?
Yes. Eligibility continues after service. Remaining entitlement determines how much you can borrow with no down payment.
Do disabled veterans pay property tax in Maryland?
Veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability rating can qualify for a full exemption on their principal residence.
How close is Bowie to Joint Base Andrews?
About 15 miles, typically 25 to 35 minutes by car.
Want a plan built around your orders?
Get a written PCS plan or text Bruno with your report date.