Everything veterans, active-duty service members, and military families need to know about VA home loans — eligibility, benefits, funding fees, and the complete VA buying process.
Who qualifies for a VA loan?
Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard/Reserve with 90+ days active duty, and certain surviving spouses. A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is required.
What's the VA loan down payment?
$0 down payment required. VA loans are one of the only true zero-down mortgage options available, with no PMI required.
What is the VA funding fee?
A one-time fee of 1.25%–3.3% of the loan amount. First-time use: 2.15% with $0 down. Disabled veterans may be exempt.
Can I reuse a VA loan?
Yes. VA loan entitlement can be restored and reused. You can have multiple VA loans over your lifetime, even simultaneously in some cases.
A VA loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It's designed to help veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses become homeowners with favorable terms that conventional loans can't match.
The biggest benefit: VA loans require $0 down payment for most borrowers and don't charge private mortgage insurance (PMI).
From eligibility to closing — everything you need about VA home loans.
Eligibility, service requirements, credit, and documentation needed.
Top benefits including $0 down, no PMI, and competitive rates.
How the funding fee works, rates, exemptions, and who pays what.
How to get your COE — the first step in the VA loan process.
Streamline refinance for existing VA loans — lower your rate with less paperwork.
Compare VA loans against other mortgage options side by side.
Important VA mortgage terms explained simply.
Certificate of Eligibility — proves you qualify for a VA loan based on military service.
A one-time fee to help sustain the VA loan program. Can be financed.
Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan — a streamlined VA-to-VA refinance.
The amount the VA guarantees on your loan. Affects how much you can borrow.
Native American Direct Loan — helps Native American veterans buy, build, or improve homes on federal trust land.
A buyer can take over your existing VA loan. All VA loans are assumable subject to approval.
Generally, veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and certain surviving spouses are eligible. Minimum service requirements apply — typically 90 consecutive days of active service during wartime or 181 days during peacetime. A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) confirms your qualification.
Yes — for most borrowers within standard VA loan limits, 100% financing is available with no down payment. This is one of the most powerful VA loan benefits. Even if your loan exceeds the standard limit, you may only need a small down payment on the difference.
The VA funding fee is a one-time charge that helps keep the VA loan program running. Rates range from 1.25% to 3.3% of your loan amount depending on your down payment and whether it's your first VA loan. Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be exempt. Active-duty Purple Heart recipients may also qualify for exemption.
Yes. Your VA home loan benefit isn't a one-time privilege. You can use it multiple times as long as you have sufficient entitlement remaining. Many veterans use a VA loan for a purchase, refinance later with a VA IRRRL, and may even purchase another home with remaining entitlement.
Check your VA eligibility and see what you qualify for. No obligation, no credit impact.
Takes about 10 minutes · No credit score impact
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