VA Home Loans
VA Loans offer eligible military service members and veterans favorable mortgage terms, including no down payment requirements and competitive interest rates, to help them achieve homeownership.
Why a VA Loan?
A VA loan is a mortgage loan that is guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and is designed to help veterans, active-duty military members, and their families purchase or refinance a home. VA loans offer a variety of benefits, including no down payment requirements, lower credit score requirements, and no private mortgage insurance (PMI) requirement.
VA loans can be used to purchase a variety of types of properties, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums, as long as they meet the VA’s property requirements. The VA loan program is intended to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for military families.
Misconceptions
VA loans are issued by the VA – The VA does not actually issue VA loans; instead, VA loans are issued by private lenders, such as banks and mortgage companies, and are guaranteed by the VA.
High Interest Rates – VA loans typically have competitive interest rates compared to other loan programs. In fact, VA loans often have lower interest rates than conventional loans.
Only Available For Certain Types of Properties – VA loans can be used to purchase a variety of types of properties, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums.
VA Loans Take Longer To Close – While VA loans do require certain inspections and appraisals, they do not necessarily take longer to close than other loan programs. In fact, VA loans can sometimes close faster than other loan programs because of the VA’s appraisal process.
The VA Loan Process
- Check Eligibility: Confirm eligibility based on U.S. military service.
- Get COE: Obtain your Certificate of Eligibility from the VA.
- Choose a Lender: Find a VA-approved lender in the U.S.
- Get Pre-Approved: Submit financial details for pre-approval.
- Find a Home: Look for a property that meets VA standards.
- Submit Application: Complete the loan application with required documents.
- VA Appraisal: The lender orders an appraisal to ensure the home meets VA standards.
- Loan Processing: The lender reviews and approves the loan.
