Bridging the Veteran Homeownership Divide Through Specialized Real Estate

A significant portion of American military veterans are not utilizing the home loan benefits available to them. Recent data indicates that only around 13 percent of eligible service members have taken advantage of their VA home loan, according to a 2026 survey by NewDay USA, as reported by Inman. Recognizing this substantial gap, Navy veteran Travis Winfield established Military Operated Real Estate (MORE). The organization's core mission is to increase veteran homeownership by strengthening the support system around them, beginning with the real estate agents who facilitate these transactions. Winfield's vision for MORE extends beyond simply connecting veterans with available loans. He aims to cultivate a network of real estate professionals who are not only veterans themselves but are also highly knowledgeable about the specific needs and benefits pertinent to military personnel and their families. This specialized understanding can streamline the home-buying process and ensure veterans receive comprehensive support. The initiative focuses on educating and certifying real estate agents in the intricacies of VA loans and the unique circumstances that often accompany military life, such as relocations and varying income structures. By equipping agents with this expertise, MORE seeks to create a more efficient and empathetic experience for veteran homebuyers. Ultimately, MORE strives to foster a community where veterans are not only clients but also key players in the real estate sector. The goal is to empower these individuals to navigate the housing market effectively, leading to a greater number of veterans successfully securing homes through their earned benefits. This approach, Inman notes, highlights a proactive effort to tackle the underutilization of a valuable resource intended for those who have served the nation. By focusing on both the supply of informed agents and the demand from veteran buyers, MORE hopes to significantly improve veteran participation in the housing market.