Yes, service members stationed overseas can use their VA loan benefit to purchase property in the United States, and this is a fairly common situation, particularly for service members buying a home to move into upon a future PCS, or purchasing a rental property near a duty station they've previously served at or plan to return to. The VA loan program doesn't require the borrower to be physically present in the U.S. throughout the buying process. The main practical consideration is how to handle the transaction remotely. A Power of Attorney (POA) is commonly used, allowing a trusted person — often a spouse — to sign documents and complete closing on the service member's behalf. This needs to be set up properly and often needs to meet specific requirements depending on the lender and title company, so it's worth starting this process early and confirming exact requirements with your lender and closing attorney before relying on it. Remote closings have also become more common and technically feasible, with some transactions able to be completed through electronic signatures and remote online notarization, depending on the state and the specific lender's capabilities, though this varies and isn't universally available or accepted for every step of a real estate transaction, particularly in North Carolina where closings involve an attorney. Working with a real estate agent and lender experienced specifically in remote and overseas military transactions matters significantly here, since the logistics of touring properties (often through virtual tours or a trusted representative), managing communication across time zones, and coordinating the closing process remotely all require more proactive planning than a standard in-person transaction. Setting up clear communication expectations and a reliable Power of Attorney arrangement early in the process helps avoid delays or complications later.