Ep 4. Living like locals in Misawa

House Hunters International: Military Veterans follows veterans as they search for their dream homes across the globe. In season one, episode four, titled "Living like locals in Misawa," viewers join veteran couple Derek and Liz on their journey to find a new home in Misawa, Japan.

Derek and Liz met while serving in the Air Force and have been married for ten years. Deployments and frequent moves have become a way of life for them, but they are ready to put down roots for their growing family. Having fallen in love with the culture and lifestyle while stationed in Japan years ago, they have decided to return to Misawa to pursue their dream of living like locals.

The episode begins with Derek and Liz meeting with their real estate agent, Yuma, to discuss their budget and must-have amenities. Language barriers and cultural differences are a challenge, but Yuma is able to help them narrow down their search to homes that fit their criteria.

The couple's first stop is a traditional Japanese home with tatami-style floors and shoji screens. Despite the home's rustic charm, Derek and Liz quickly realize that the lack of western-style amenities, such as central heating and air conditioning, would be difficult to adjust to.

Their second stop is a more modern home with western-style bathrooms and a spacious kitchen. However, the lack of yard space for their children to play in makes them hesitant to commit.

Their final stop is a spacious home in a newer development with all the amenities they desire, including central heating and air conditioning, a large kitchen, and a yard for their children. However, the couple is concerned about the longer commute for Derek to his job on the base.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse into the unique challenges that military veterans face in the home-buying process. Moving frequently and dealing with deployments can make it difficult to establish a sense of stability and community. However, Derek and Liz are determined to make a home in Misawa and embrace the local culture.

In the end, viewers are left to wonder which home the couple will choose and what challenges they will face as they settle into their new life in Japan. House Hunters International: Military Veterans season one, episode four is a heartwarming and inspiring journey that highlights the resilience and determination of military veterans in pursuit of their dreams.