Hafa Adai and welcome — or, if you're still back stateside staring at your PCS orders with wide eyes, almost welcome! Getting orders to Guam is one of the most unique assignments the military can hand you. It's a U.S. territory, so your VA loan benefits work here, your pay is in dollars, and your SOFA rights are intact — but make no mistake, Guam is its own beautiful, sometimes surprising world. The more you know before you arrive, the smoother your transition will be.
I'm Terry Taylor, Guam's Certified Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and an honorably discharged veteran myself. I've helped dozens of military families navigate this exact move. This guide covers everything I wish someone had told my clients from day one.
1. Start Your Housing Search Early — Really Early
The biggest mistake military families make when PCS-ing to Guam is waiting too long to start their housing search. The best off-base rentals — the ones that are MHO-approved, priced within your OHA, and close to your installation — move fast.
I typically start working with families 45 to 90 days before their report date. Peak PCS season runs June through August, which is also typhoon season — inventory tightens and competition heats up right when most families are arriving.
If your orders have you arriving between May and September, reach out to me as soon as those orders are in hand. Early conversations cost nothing and save everything.
2. Understand OHA — It's Different From BAH
If you're coming from a stateside assignment, you're used to BAH — Basic Allowance for Housing — where you keep anything left over after paying rent. Guam uses Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA), and it works differently.
| How OHA Works | Details |
|---|---|
| You only receive what you spend on rent | Up to your OHA ceiling — unused OHA does NOT go in your pocket |
| Rate is based on rank + dependent status | Updated quarterly via DoD Travel Management Office |
| Utility supplement included | Separate MIHA utility allowance is part of your package |
| Move-in allowance available | One-time MIHA Move-In for security deposits and setup costs |
This means it's critical to find a home priced right at or near your OHA ceiling — not under it. I'll calculate your specific OHA rate as one of our first steps together, based on your rank and dependent status.
3. MHO Approval — Don't Skip This Step
Before you sign any lease on Guam, most service members are required to have the property inspected and approved by the Military Housing Office (MHO). This process checks that the home meets safety and habitability standards. Signing before approval can leave you paying rent on a property the military won't recognize — a situation nobody wants.
I vet every rental property for MHO-readiness before we ever schedule a tour. No wasted trips, no surprises at lease signing.
4. Choose Your Location Based on Your Installation
Andersen AFB
North Guam. Best areas: Yigo, Dededo, Mangilao. Commutes: 10–25 min.
Naval Base Guam
South/central. Best areas: Agat, Santa Rita, Asan, Tamuning. Commutes: 10–30 min.
Camp Blaz
North Guam near Andersen. Best areas: Yigo, Dededo, Barrigada. Commutes: 10–25 min.
Guam is only about 30 miles long, so even a "far" commute rarely exceeds 35 minutes. There's truly no bad location — it comes down to what your family prioritizes: proximity to base, access to shopping, outdoor space, or ocean views.
5. VA Loans Work Here — and They're Powerful
Thinking about buying instead of renting? You absolutely can on Guam, and your VA loan benefit works just like it does stateside — no down payment required for eligible veterans, no private mortgage insurance, and competitive interest rates.
One critical note: VA appraisals are firm. If a home appraises below the purchase price, VA borrowers cannot pay the difference. Having an agent who understands VA transactions on Guam is essential. I work closely with Guam's best VA lenders and can connect you before you even land on island.
6. Pack Smart for Island Life
- Bring or budget for a dehumidifier — Guam's humidity is real and relentless
- Backup generator is a must — Look for it in every rental during typhoon season (June–November)
- Concrete construction is standard — Great for typhoon resistance; your home is built to handle it
- Vehicle is essential — Plan your POV shipment through DPS early
- The sunsets — Every bit as incredible as the pictures. You're going to love it here.
Ready to Start Your Guam Housing Search?
Whether you're 90 days out or your report date is next month, the best time to connect is right now. Free PCS consultation — no pressure, no sales pitch.
📞 671-689-7726 · ✉️ terry@militaryhomesonguam.com
Hafa Adai — I'll see you on island.
Honorably discharged veteran and Guam's dedicated military PCS Realtor. Terry serves families relocating to Andersen AFB, Naval Base Guam, and Camp Blaz with expertise, honesty, and genuine care.