VA
Veterans, active duty, and eligible spouses
Earned by those who served. Zero down payment, no PMI, and competitive rates. One of the strongest mortgage benefits available to eligible service members.
Program Overview
How VA Loans Work
VA loans are mortgage loans guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and certain surviving spouses, VA loans represent a significant homebuying benefit earned through military service.
The signature feature of the VA loan is zero down payment required. Combined with no monthly mortgage insurance, this can make the VA loan one of the most cost-effective mortgage options for those who qualify. Interest rates on VA loans are generally competitive because the government guarantee reduces risk for lenders.
VA loans do have a funding fee, which ranges from 1.25% to 3.3% depending on your down payment, service history, and whether this is your first VA loan. This fee can be financed into the loan so it does not require cash at closing. Veterans with service-connected disabilities are exempt from the funding fee entirely.
Like FHA loans, VA loans are assumable. A qualified buyer (who may or may not be a veteran) can assume your VA loan at the original interest rate, making your home more attractive in a market where rates have risen since your purchase.
Key Features
- Zero down payment required
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI) of any kind
- Competitive interest rates, often lower than conventional
- Limited closing costs (VA restricts what veterans can be charged)
- Assumable loans with rate retention
- No prepayment penalties
The Process
How It Works
Obtain Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
We help you obtain your COE, which verifies your military service and VA loan eligibility. In most cases, we can pull this electronically in minutes.
Get Pre-Approved
We review your full financial picture and determine your buying power. VA loans have flexible qualification guidelines, including no maximum DTI ratio set by the VA itself.
VA Appraisal and Processing
A VA-approved appraiser evaluates the property to confirm it meets VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). We manage the underwriting process from start to finish.
Close With Confidence
The VA limits what fees you can be charged at closing, helping keep your out-of-pocket costs low. Many veterans close with minimal cash out of pocket.
Ideal Borrower
Who This Program Is For
VA loans are exclusively for those who have served in the U.S. military and certain surviving spouses. The benefit is earned, and using it can be a valuable financial decision for eligible veterans.
Run the Numbers
Use our calculator to explore payment scenarios, compare options, and see how a va loan could fit your financial plan.
Open CalculatorCommon Questions
VA FAQ
Ready to Explore VA Loans?
Let our team walk you through the details, run the numbers for your situation, and help you decide if this is the right program for your goals.