A solid military career and home ownership in Ottawa with a lawyer wife is a different lifestyle than most.  I also, many years ago, was an RCAF officer and bought a house in the West end of Ottawa but I worked in Rockcliffe and periodically flew out of Uplands.  Moving frequently, meant selling and buying five houses over time.  A member of my staff also bought a house in Ottawa but when he moved he rented it out and now lives in it in retirement.  Prices have always risen in the Ottawa area because of government and rental is expensive and not easy.
This man and his wife have a goal.  They may not meet it but it is good aim and if continued will achieve success.