According to the latest Census count, the Tri-Cities Combined Statistical Area (CSA) is home to 40,438 veterans. That covers Carter, Washington, Unicoi, Sullivan, and Hawkins counties in Northeast Tennessee, along with Scott and Washington counties plus Bristol in Southwest Virginia. Veterans make up 8.2% of the CSA’s population. That’s an undercount, since Greene and Johnson counties’ data won’t be updated until December. 

While the number of World War II, Korean, and Vietnam veterans is declining due to age, the region continues to attract younger veterans and military retirees looking to relocate. This trend creates fresh demand for housing and stability in the market. 

Veterans in our region bring financial strength to the market. 

• Median income for male veterans: $47,434 
• Median income for female veterans: $37,203 

Both exceed the local civilian median, and veterans also maintain a higher homeownership rate – a critical detail for Realtors® working in today’s market.  

One of the most powerful tools for veteran buyers is the VA loan. While these loans are guaranteed by the Veterans Administration, they’re made through banks and lenders – often at lower interest rates and with benefits that help veterans compete. 

So far this year, VA loans account for a meaningful slice of the local market: 

• 465 homes purchased with VA loans—10.3% of all residential sales. 
• Sales volume: $1.7 million, or 10.8% of the region’s total. 
• Median VA loan home price: $325,000, compared to $299,900 for all sales. 

For Realtors®, this means veteran buyers are often in a stronger position than many expect. 

Working with VA loans isn’t the same as conventional or FHA financing. The terminology, requirements, and processes are unique. Too often, myths about VA loans create unnecessary barriers for veterans during negotiations. By understanding how these loans work, Realtors® can better serve this population and open new opportunities for their business. 

The Military Relocation Professional (MRP) designation is the industry standard for agents who want to specialize in helping veterans and military families. Earning it not only honors veterans’ service but also positions Realtors® to serve a loyal and growing client base. 

Since its inception in 1944, the VA loan program has backed more than 21 million loans nationwide, helping veterans, active-duty service members, and their families access homeownership. Here in the Tri-Cities, veterans represent both a proud part of our community and a vital force in the housing market. 

For Realtors®, honoring veterans isn’t just about one day in November – it’s about recognizing their ongoing impact on our market and being ready to serve them with knowledge, respect, and skill.