Army veteran Kirby Atwell moves on from one business and finds purpose, profit and more in real estate.
“Real estate gave me a way to serve beyond my uniform.”
— Kirby Atwell
After serving as an Army officer and graduating from West Point, Kirby Atwell found himself at a crossroads: What’s next?
He didn’t just want a job; he wanted a mission. One that would offer the freedom to build a meaningful life while continuing to serve others. He found it through real estate.
Today, The American Legion’s Tango Alpha Lima podcast continues its special four-part series on veteran entrepreneurs, highlighting innovative leaders who are reshaping industries, and creating space for veterans and military families to thrive in business. The four episodes drop Monday through Thursday of this week, along with a resource guide for each one. Find today’s guide here.
Humble roots, hard lessons
Atwell’s journey into real estate began in 2006 when stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. Inspired by the personal finance classic, "Rich Dad, Poor Dad," he purchased a modest property near the post office. That early investment sparked a passion that stayed with him.
In 2011, after leaving the Army, Atwell co-founded iCandy Homes in the Chicago area, completing more than 75 renovation projects in four years while earning his MBA. The business appeared successful on paper, but the reality was sobering.
“We had high revenue but no real profit,” he shared. “I was working nonstop but had no financial freedom.”
That revelation led to his first major pivot and planted the seeds for something greater.
From flipping to serving: Green Vet Homes
In 2016, Atwell launched Green Vet Homes, a mission-driven real estate company focused on supporting veterans and rebuilding communities. The model is straightforward: purchase and renovate undervalued properties, then either rent them to veterans using HUD/VASH housing vouchers or utilize the profits to support veteran nonprofits.
Green Vet Homes combines social impact with smart investing, restoring dignity and providing housing stability to those who have served.
“It’s not just about properties,” he says. “It’s about purpose.”
A basement breakthrough
After relocating to Northwest Indiana in 2017, Atwell turned his lakehouse basement into a short-term rental. By summer’s end, those bookings had paid for 75% of his mortgage.
That experience sparked a second pivot, this time toward high-cash-flow rentals that could support a sustainable, freedom-filled lifestyle. Today, he manages a portfolio of rental properties clustered for operational efficiency.
Atwell shares his strategies through his podcast and educational platform, Living Off Rentals, helping others build wealth without burnout.
Real estate as an asset and a tax strategy
A core lesson from “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” that continues to guide Atwell is the idea that assets put money in your pocket and smart tax planning keeps it there.
Rental properties not only generate income but also come with substantial tax advantages, including depreciation, mortgage interest, repairs, property management and even travel expenses, all of which can be written off. Over time, this reduces taxable income and accelerates wealth building.
For veterans, understanding how to turn real estate into a performing asset is a powerful step toward long-term financial independence.
Leveraging the VA home loan
One of the most valuable tools available to veterans is the VA home loan. It allows eligible servicemembers and veterans to buy a primary residence with no down payment, no PMI and low interest rates. While it’s designed for owner-occupied homes, many veterans, including Atwell, use it as a stepping stone.
By living in the home for a required period, then converting it into a rental after moving, veterans can begin building their investment portfolio without traditional barriers to entry.
Beyond real estate: legacy and leadership
Atwell’s impact goes beyond property lines. As a former chief operating officer at Bunker Labs, he has mentored numerous veterans in business. A portion of every project’s profits is donated to veteran support organizations, turning every transaction into a ripple of impact.
Through Green Vet Homes, Living Off Rentals Podcast and his commitment to mentorship, Atwell continues to create pathways for others to find stability, purpose and freedom — one door at a time.
Key takeaways from Atwell’s journey
Start with one property and one clear purpose. Flipping is flashy, but rentals create freedom. Tax planning is part of the strategy. Don’t overlook depreciation and deductions. Use your VA loan wisely. It’s a launchpad, not just a benefit. Mission-driven business isn’t a niche, it’s a competitive edge.
Ashley Gorbulja is a National Guard veteran, communications expert, business owner, and member of American Legion Post 139 in Arlington, Va. She is the host of The American Legion’s special podcast series on veteran entrepreneurship.
- Tango Alpha Lima