- Homebuying apps can help Veterans and military families search listings, explore neighborhoods and manage their budgets from anywhere.
- While apps provide convenience and insights, working with an experienced real estate agent is still essential for a smooth home purchase.
House hunting while navigating permanent change of station (PCS) orders or planning post-service life can feel overwhelming. Between watching listings, scheduling showings and making offers, the process can start to feel like a full-time job.
Thankfully, technology has made things easier. With the right tools in hand, military buyers can improve their home search, stay within budget and connect with local agents all from their phone or computer.
Whether you're browsing homes from your couch or exploring neighborhoods in person, these homebuying apps can help streamline your search. Here are six of the top homebuying apps, including one built specifically with Veterans, service members and military families in mind.
1. Veterans United Homefront
Veterans United Homefront is a homebuying tool built specifically for Veterans, active-duty service members and military families. You can search for VA loan-eligible homes, estimate your monthly mortgage payment and get preapproval help all in one place.
It can even connect you with a VA-savvy real estate agent when you’re ready to sell your home or calculate your home’s estimated value. While Veterans United Homefront is currently web-based only, a mobile app is coming soon.
Pro: Built to help Veterans maximize their VA loan benefits
Con: No dedicated mobile app yet
2. Zillow
Zillow is one of the most well-known home search platforms, offering millions of listings and AI-powered “Zestimates” for estimated home values. Its standout feature is 3D Home Tours, which let you explore properties virtually. This can be a big help for military families preparing for a Permanent Change of Station or move after retirement or discharge
Pro: 3D home tours are great for long-distance home purchases
Con: Home value estimates aren’t always accurate
3. Trulia
Trulia shines when it comes to learning about communities before you buy. Its “neighborhoods” feature allows you to explore communities in detail. You can see photos, read resident reviews, learn about local schools and get info about nearby amenities. In total, there are 27 different overlays you can use to explore what a neighborhood has to offer.
For military buyers purchasing from far away, Trulia can be a great way to ensure you’re choosing a community that fits both your budget and your lifestyle needs, without ever setting foot in the ZIP code.
Pro: Deep insights into neighborhood life and amenities
Con: Some reviews note inaccurate property listings
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4. Realtor.com
Realtor.com pulls data directly from Multiple Listing Services (MLS), so you’re getting some of the most current listings available. You can filter searches, calculate payments, track home prices and even draw custom map boundaries to search specific areas — no specific ZIP code or neighborhood is required.
Pro: Delivers some of the most accurate and current home listings available
Con: Only homes listed in the MLS are available
5. Redfin
Redfin combines a powerful search tool with access to its own network of real estate agents. And if you use one of those agents, there’s a commission refund program that may put money back in your pocket.
The app also offers market insights, easy home-tour scheduling and the “Ask Redfin” feature, which allows you to ask questions about listings and get answers in real-time, as you’re searching.
Pro: Offers potential commission savings and built-in agent support
Con: May not be the best choice if you already have an agent
6. Homesnap
If you’ve ever driven by a home and wondered if it was for sale, Homesnap is the app for you. Just snap a photo, and the app instantly pulls up the listing status, price and property details.
It’s a great tool if you’re scouting neighborhoods in person and want on-the-go info. You can even pull up the app and walk around a home, seeing its property boundaries in real time as you move.
Pro: Instantly identifies properties while you're out and about
Con: Several features require being physically near the property
I always recommend clients choose one app that suits them best, since they all pull from the same multiple listing service (MLS) data and juggling several apps can get overwhelming. When clients send me listings they like, it gives me added insight beyond our initial consultation. That helps us move quicker and stay aligned throughout the search.
Ready to Start Your Home Search?
Digital apps and tools can give today’s homebuyers a serious edge by offering instant access to listings, virtual tours and neighborhood insights that make searching easier, especially from a distance.
But even the best app can’t replace the guidance of a knowledgeable real estate agent who’s well-versed in the dynamics of military relocations. Whether you're navigating tight timelines, using your VA loan benefits or buying sight-unseen, a trusted agent can make a big difference.
If you're ready to take the next step, consider working with an experienced real estate agent from our affiliate real estate network, Veterans United Realty, who knows how to support Veterans and service members through every part of the process.
How We Maintain Content Accuracy
Our mortgage experts continuously track industry trends, regulatory changes, and market conditions to keep our information accurate and relevant. We update our articles whenever new insights or updates become available to help you make informed homebuying and selling decisions.
Current Version
Aug 28, 2025
Written ByMitch Casteel
Reviewed ByLida Meyer
Major article update to focus on new house hunting apps. Content reviewed and fact checked by licensed real estate agent Lida Meyer.
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