Serving Those Who've Served: A New Mexico Perspective on Veteran Homebuyers

New Mexico’s strong military ties—anchored by bases like Kirtland, Holloman, and Cannon—contribute to a vibrant veteran community across urban and rural areas. This makes the state a prime location for veteran-focused real estate services, advocacy, and education. To serve them well, REALTORS® must understand the unique values and benefits that shape their homebuying journey.

As of 2025, New Mexico is home to approximately 133,239 military veterans. This represents about 6,281 veterans per 100,000 residents, placing the state above the national average in veteran population density.

Veterans often cite the VA home loan as their most impactful earned benefit, and many actively seek trusted real estate partners as they transition to civilian life. They prioritize stability, responsibility, and connection—values that resonate deeply in New Mexico’s tight-knit communities.

On Monday, a new report from from Realtor.com® and the National Association of Realtors® was released that found that for many U.S. Veterans, buying a home can feel out of reach, but a 0% down Veterans Affairs home loan can help first-time buyers move in 4.4 years sooner than with a typical conventional loan.

A custom analysis of NAR's 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers finds that 74% of first-time VA loan users put 0% down, compared with a 12% median down payment for conventional first-time buyers. With a VA loan, borrowers only need to cover standard closing costs, which are similar for both types of loans. On a typical $430,000 home, a conventional buyer would need roughly $51,600 upfront that a VA loan buyer wouldn't need. For a first-time buyer saving 15% of a median $78,700 annual gross income, it would take about 4.4 years to accumulate that amount.

A lower 10% savings rate stretches the timeline to 6.6 years, while a more aggressive 20% rate shortens it to 3.3 years. In short, a 0% down VA loan lets buyers enter the market and start building equity years sooner.

A 2025 survey from Veterans United Home Loans showed only about one-third of veterans and active-duty service members today know they can buy a home with no money down. By expanding your knowledge of veteran needs and benefits, you can become a reliable guide and advocate—someone who truly understands what it means to serve those who’ve served.

The Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification is for real estate professionals who want to work with current and former military service members. The MRP certification program educates REALTORS® about working with U.S. servicemembers and their families and veterans to find the housing solutions that best suit their needs and to take full advantage of available benefits and support.

In New Mexico, the veteran unemployment rate is approximately 2.4%, with 44.4% of veterans actively employed and 45.5% participating in the labor force. These figures reflect strong engagement despite a slightly lower employment rate than the national veteran average.

Veterans have a homeownership rate of approximately 78%, compared to 65% among the general population, and they tend to purchase homes at a younger age. New Mexico’s affordability and community values make it a strong fit for veteran buyers.

Whether you're working near a base or helping a veteran settle into a quiet mountain town, your insight and empathy can make all the difference

Top 5 Insights for Serving Veteran Clients

1. Homeownership Support Is Built In

Military service unlocks powerful benefits that make homeownership more accessible for veterans—chief among them, the VA home loan, which many rank as their most valuable earned benefit.

2. Respect Is High, Understanding Is Low

While the public holds the military in high esteem, many veterans feel their unique needs and experiences are often misunderstood by civilians.

3. Stability Matters

Veterans place a strong emphasis on control and consistency in their lives. They also tend to score higher than nonveterans on measures of financial well-being.

4. Responsibility Runs Deep

Veterans demonstrate a strong sense of civic and professional responsibility. They vote at higher rates and are more likely to hold leadership roles in the workplace.

5. Connection Builds Trust

Veteran consumers value businesses that genuinely understand the military community. C.A.R. resources can help you build that trust and confidently guide veterans through the homebuying journey.

On this 2025 Veteran’s Day, we honor the service, sacrifice, and enduring contributions of our nation’s veterans—especially those who call New Mexico home. As REALTORS®, understanding their values—responsibility, connection, and trust—empowers us to serve not just as brokers, but as advocates. Let today be a reminder that by deepening our knowledge and strengthening our outreach, we can help those who’ve served find a place to call home.

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NAR Resources

The National Association of REALTORS® has compiled a page of resources to help you commemorate Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

NAR’s Consumer Guide, “What Is the VA Loan Guaranty?” is a great resource to share with consumers. It explains the basics of the program, including those who are eligible for a VA home loan.

REALTOR.com Resources

• Mission Zero: A campaign to ensure every Veteran knows about and can use their VA home loan benefit

• News Release: A 0% Down VA Loan Can Put Veterans in a Home 4.4 Years Sooner

• Econ report: Dream Home Sooner: How a 0% Down VA Loan Cuts 4.4 Years Off the Wait

• News & Insights article: VA Loans Are Helping Veterans Buy Their First Homes With 0% Down Advantage