Texas has always been very supportive and thankful to the people who have served the U.S. Military. So, the Lone Star State has much to offer veterans, namely access to land. For veterans that are ready to put down roots, purchase property or build a brand-new home, Texas has way for them to accomplish their dreams, like the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB), and for qualified veterans, this is where it gets even better! Admittedly free land (free as in totally free) is difficult to come by, however there are still cities and towns that offer free land or make it easy for new homesteaders or land owners to get land under the condition they build on it.
In this post, we’ll be discussing how veterans can access land benefits in Texas, how they can qualify, and where they can turn for help especially if they plan to use that land for farming, residential purposes or long-term investment.
Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB): A Lifeline for Veteran Land Ownership
The Texas Veterans Land Board has been in place for land help programs since 1946. It doesn’t give land directly away, but it offers up to $150,000 in financing for the purchase of land, requiring only a 5 percent down payment and providing competitive interest rates for veterans. Supported by state funding, this program helps make land ownership more accessible, manageable, and attractive for Wisconsin residents and their families.
Many eligible veterans enjoy the benefit of purchasing land in rural or semi-rural Texas, and then turn to additional resources like the VA Loan Homes for Sale to construct their ideal homes.
Are There Really Free Land Programs in Texas?
While direct “free land” industries are uncommon, some rural towns and counties in Texas sometimes give away land as an incentive for economic development. These have traditionally been given to populate or develop communities in lesser populated regions.
In these programs, veterans are often prioritized or provided with extra benefits comparatively. Marquez, La Villa, and other towns in South or West Texas have historically offered free land in exchange for those who would immediately construct upon the land, or move to that town.
These aren’t state-sponsored programs, but in conjunction with state or federal benefits, veterans can use these local programs to substantially lower or erase costs.
Combining Free Land Incentives with VA Loan Programs
So we are going to talk about veterans, there are many veterans that are interested in building a home on their land and using their VA benefits to do so. Although the traditional VA loan doesn’t permit land purchases by itself, a VA construction loan allows an eligible borrower to buy undeveloped land and home construction all in a single loan.
Another tactic veterans are employing is buying land with VLB financing and later applying for a VA loan for a rental property or for a primary residence, in order to take maximum advantage of government-backed financial aid.
Find out how to use a VA Loan for a Rental Property if you are looking for cash that your land can offer you.
Veterans near Military Bases in Texas Have More Options
Housing and land are also more readily accessible for veterans located near or moving away from military bases in Texas because of the presence of federal programs and transitioning services.
The cities around Fort Hood, Joint Base San Antonio and other bases frequently are home to housing developments or land deals that cater to veterans. Workshops, real estate counseling, and VLB loan assistance are also provided just a few of the many micro-level services communities offer to help veterans locate and take advantage of those ideal opportunities.
What about Military Housing? Is It Free?
Do veterans get free military housing? ‘Do veterans receive free housing?’ are some of the questions many veterans may ask if they are newly separated from the military. Even if they do, most service members get either base housing or a housing allowance (BAH) while they are on active duty. But after you leave service or retire, you’re no longer going to get housing for free.
That’s why I say “Land/Home Owner” as that is a reasonable and affordable long-term option when using VLB and VA.
South Texas: A Hidden Gem for Veteran Land Seekers
The military housing in South Texas is mostly cheaper, and the area is great for buying land. Counties such as Hidalgo, Starr and Webb are more likely to have lower land costs and appeal to veterans seeking to stretch their benefits.
If your plans include construction or moving to this area, look into Military Housing in South Texas to learn more about cost of living, vet-friendly towns, and land options.
Don’t Overlook the CCAD Program in Texas
Located on the campus, the Corpus Christi Army Depot is the largest helicopter repair facility in the world. Veterans who once lived or served on the island, or who were stationed here or elsewhere in the state, may also be able to take advantage of the veteran housing and land programs.
Some CCAD-connected community programs and nonprofits help peg veterans with housing, education and reintegration, which may range from access to discounted land or help with housing. Find out more about the Texas CCAD Program and how it fits your land ownership.
Using VA Loans in Texas to Maximize Your Benefits
Upon finding land, many veterans also use Texas VA Loans to purchase property or build a home. No money down, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), lower rates and are perfect for combining with land incentives.
You can use your VA loan benefits to apply toward the cost of new construction by purchasing a piece of land in a locale of your choice and combining it with a conventional, VA-friendly home building plan (or a plan that is exclusively your property to finance).
Final Thoughts: Land Opportunities for Veterans Are Growing
Although “free land for veterans in Texas” likely seems like wishful thinking, the actuality is that various connected federal, state, and local programs could get you very close. Whether it be entering through the VLB’s extremely low-priced land, through free lots inspired by community, or just veteran loan programs, Texas veterans have one of the most beneficial demographic circumstances when it comes to home and land repurchase in the country.
If you are a vet and you desire Texas wide-open skies, quiet rural surroundings or to build a house designed for YOU, take a look at these! With planning, and thanks to a little information, you can use your military service to build a foundation for lasting property ownership.
Pro Tip: Add local land incentive programs and your VA financing, and scout small Texas towns selling land grants to veterans. Trade with a VA approved builders and a VLB land sales counselor to make the most out of your benefits.