VA Loan Guide


 

As proud advocates for our nation’s heroes, we're committed to helping Veterans, active-duty military, and eligible service members make the most of the benefits they’ve earned—especially when it comes to homeownership. One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is the VA home loan.

Whether you're buying your first home or your forever home, here's everything you need to know about the VA loan process—plus how we can help you navigate it with confidence.

🔍 What Is a VA Loan?

A VA loan is a mortgage option backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It's designed to make homeownership more accessible for Veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses. With no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and competitive interest rates, it’s one of the best loan programs available today.

✅ Who Is Eligible?

You may be eligible if you are:

  • A Veteran with an honorable discharge

  • An active-duty service member

  • A member of the National Guard or Reserves (with qualifying service)

  • A surviving spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected disability

💰 Top Benefits of a VA Loan

  • $0 Down Payment – Buy a home with no money down

  • No PMI – Save hundreds every month compared to conventional loans

  • Competitive Interest Rates – Often lower than FHA or conventional rates

  • Flexible Credit Requirements – More lenient than other loan types

  • No Prepayment Penalties – Pay off your loan early with no extra fees

🏡 What Can You Buy With a VA Loan?

You can use a VA loan to:

  • Purchase a primary residence

  • Build a new home

  • Make certain home improvements

  • Refinance an existing VA or non-VA loan (VA IRRRL or Cash-Out)

  • Purchase a Multi Unit property * (if you live in one of the units)

Note: You can’t use a VA loan for vacation homes or investment properties.

💡 Common Myths About VA Loans

Myth #1: VA Loans Take Too Long.
✅ Truth: VA loans often close just as fast as other loan types with the right lender.

Myth #2: You Can Only Use a VA Loan Once.
✅ Truth: You can use it multiple times and even have more than one VA loan in certain cases.

Myth #3: You Still Need Perfect Credit.
✅ Truth: VA loans are more forgiving of lower credit scores than conventional loans.

📝 The VA Loan Process (Step-by-Step)

  1. Get Pre-Qualified with a VA-approved lender

  2. Obtain Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

  3. Start House Hunting with a Realtor® who understands VA loans

  4. Make an Offer

  5. Schedule the VA Appraisal & Inspection

  6. Close on Your Home & Move In!

As your Realtor®, we guide you through every step, ensuring your offer is structured correctly and that sellers understand the strength of a VA-backed buyer.

🤝 How We Help Veterans Navigate the VA Loan Process

  • We partner with VA-experienced lenders who understand the nuances of the loan

  • We make sure sellers understand your VA offer is strong and reliable

  • We help coordinate a smooth closing—no surprises

And as an affiliates with Homes for Heroes, we also provide hero savings at closing as a way to say thank you for your service.

Ready to Use Your VA Loan Benefit?

You've earned this benefit. Let’s put it to work for you.

We're here to help you every step of the way.

D'Ann and Melissa


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