VA loans are a great loan option for those who have served our country. These loans backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, provide an affordable way for many military families to own their own home – and a way to say thank you for your service!

Active-duty service members, veterans and surviving spouses could qualify for a VA mortgage loan for the purchase of a home and even for refinancing. National Guard members and Reservists might be eligible with certain service requirements. 

The most advantageous feature of a VA-guaranteed loan is that a down payment is usually not required. This is ideal for those of you who have military careers but have yet to save for a down payment. The loan must be used for a primary residence or to refinance an existing loan.

Certain lenders offer VA-guaranteed loans and are familiar with the program. I can help match you to lenders who can work with you if you in pursuing a VA loan or other home loan benefits, such as adapting a home if you have a service-related disability.

Benefits of taking out a VA loan:

• No down payment, unless a lender requires it
• Competitive low-interest rates 
• Limited closing costs 
• No need for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) 
• Length of service or service commitment, duty status, and character of service determine eligibility for specific home loan benefits.
• There is no minimum credit score requirement. Instead, VA requires a lender to review the entire loan profile
• The VA Funding Fee is waived if you have a service-connected disability.  
• You can apply for temporary mortgage relief payments if called up for duty.

Keep in mind that there is a one-time VA Funding Fee. This fee varies depending on the type of transaction, the down payment amount, and your military category. The fee can be rolled into your loan so you don’t have to pay it out of pocket. This funding fee is waived if you are considered to have a service-connected disability.  

VA loans have some “special” provisions, and you need an agent and a lender who knows how to navigate these types of loans.  

Helping people who have served our country become homeowners is something I love to do. If you or anyone you know is active duty or retired military or is a surviving spouse, I’d love to help them become a homeowner using a VA loan.