VA Loans

A benefit you have earned.

VA loans are available to eligible veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Here is what the benefit can mean, and what still has to be confirmed.

At a glance

Built for those who served.

In many eligible cases, a VA loan does not require a down payment, subject to your entitlement, the property, and lender rules. It also carries no monthly private mortgage insurance.

Most borrowers pay a one-time VA funding fee, though some are exempt. A Certificate of Eligibility confirms you qualify for the benefit, but it is not a loan approval.

Key points

  • For eligible veterans, service members, some surviving spouses
  • No down payment in many eligible cases
  • No monthly mortgage insurance
  • Funding fee applies, with some exemptions
  • Certificate of Eligibility is not an approval

Is it a fit

Eligibility first, then the loan.

Often a good fit when

  • You have qualifying military service, or are a surviving spouse who may be eligible
  • You want to keep cash available rather than use it all for a down payment
  • You are buying a home that meets VA property requirements

Worth weighing

  • Entitlement matters. What you have available affects how much can be borrowed with no down payment
  • The funding fee adds to the cost unless you qualify for an exemption
  • The property must meet VA appraisal and condition standards
  • The loan is still subject to credit approval and underwriting

Costs and considerations

The pieces worth knowing.

A few terms come up again and again. Each is simple once someone explains it.

Official source

Read the program details from the VA.

Program rules can change. The Department of Veterans Affairs is the best place to confirm current details.

  1. Certificate of Eligibility

    A document that confirms your eligibility for the VA benefit and your entitlement. It is not an approval, and Charles can help you obtain it.

  2. Entitlement

    The amount the VA is prepared to stand behind. It influences the loan size available without a down payment.

  3. Funding fee

    A one-time fee that can be paid at closing or financed into the loan. Some borrowers are exempt, such as certain veterans receiving VA disability compensation.

  4. Property rules

    The VA appraisal confirms the home meets minimum standards. Charles can talk through what that means for your search.

The process with Charles

Four steps, one person to call.

  1. Step 1

    Talk with Charles

    Confirm your service and what you hope to buy.

  2. Step 2

    Certificate of Eligibility

    Obtain your Certificate to document your entitlement.

  3. Step 3

    Apply

    Complete the secure online application when you are ready.

  4. Step 4

    Appraisal and closing

    The appraisal and underwriting reviews determine whether the loan can move toward closing.

Common questions.

VA loans are available to eligible veterans, service members and some surviving spouses. Eligibility depends on service history and other VA requirements.

Talk it through with Charles.

No pressure and no commitment. Any loan is subject to credit approval and underwriting guidelines.