VA
Home Loans
A VA Home Loan is a government-backed mortgage option designed specifically for veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses. With the benefit of no down payment required, lower interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance (PMI), VA loans make homeownership more affordable and accessible for those who have served our country. This program, created to support veterans and their families, offers flexible qualification requirements and significant financial advantages. At Vision Home Mortgage, we are committed to helping you take full advantage of these benefits to achieve your homeownership goals
Exploring VA Home Loans
VA home loans offer unique advantages to veterans and their families, providing an affordable path to homeownership with lower interest rates and flexible terms. Thanks to the VA's backing, these loans often require no down payment, have reduced closing costs, and eliminate prepayment penalties. With support available in all 50 states, veterans can also access special assistance if they face financial hardship. Whether you’ve served 181 days in peacetime, 90 days in wartime, or are the spouse of a service member who has sacrificed for our country, a VA loan can help make homeownership a reality.
The VA offers a range of loan options specifically designed to support veterans and service members in their pursuit of homeownership. Each loan type comes with its own set of benefits, making it easier for you to find the right solution for your housing needs.
VA Home Purchase Loan:
This loan allows veterans to buy a primary residence with no down payment, which significantly lowers the barrier to homeownership. Additionally, there is no requirement for private mortgage insurance (PMI), which helps keep monthly payments more affordable. The VA home purchase loan features competitive interest rates and flexible credit requirements, making it an attractive option for many borrowers.IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan):
Cash-Out Refinance Loan:
This option allows you to refinance your existing mortgage while accessing cash from your home’s equity. You can use the funds for various purposes, such as home renovations, debt consolidation, or other financial needs. The cash-out refinance can be a strategic way to leverage your home’s value while still enjoying the benefits of a VA loan, such as lower interest rates and no PMI.Native American Direct Loan (NADL):
This specialized loan program is aimed at Native American veterans and provides them with the opportunity to purchase, build, or improve a home on federal trust land. NADLs require no down payment and offer competitive interest rates, making it easier for eligible Native American veterans to achieve their homeownership dreams. Additionally, this loan can help cover the costs of necessary improvements or renovations to existing homes.These loan types reflect the VA's commitment to supporting veterans and their families on their journey to homeownership.
Understanding VA Loan Entitlement:
VA loan entitlement is the amount of money the VA guarantees on a home loan, helping veterans secure financing with favorable terms. This guarantee allows veterans to borrower without needing a down payment or paying for private mortgage insurance (PMI).
Each eligible veteran starts with a basic entitlement of $36,000. However, this amount can be higher depending on factors like the county's loan limits and whether the veteran has used their entitlement before. For higher-cost areas, veterans may also qualify for a "bonus entitlement", which helps cover larger loan amounts.To determine your entitlement, you'll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA. At Vision Home Mortgage, we handle the process of obtaining your COE, making it easier for you. It's important to note that you don't need to use your full entitlement to purchase a home. In some cases, veterans can even own two VA-financed homes at the same time, depending on specific guidelines.
If you've used your entitlement before, you may be able to restore it after selling your home or paying off a previous VA loan. This means you can continue to enjoy your VA benefits for future home purchases.
The VA's guarantee also reassures lenders, enabling them to offer competitive interest rates and flexible terms. If you have questions about your entitlement or want to explore your options, our experienced team is here to help guide you through the process.
Restoration of Entitlement
- Restoring your VA loan entitlement is an important process that allows qualified veterans to take advantage of their benefits for future home purchases. To have your entitlement fully restored, you must contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and meet specific criteria, such as having sold the property purchased with your previous VA loan and ensuring that the loan is paid in full. Alternatively, a qualified veteran may assume the existing VA loan and substitute their entitlement for that of the veteran seller. It’s essential to note that entitlement can typically be restored only once.
Eligibility Requirements for a VA loan:
Wartime/Conflict Veterans- Veterans who meet the following criteria are eligible:
Must not have been dishonorably discharged and must have served at least 90 days.
- Service periods include:
- World War II: September 16, 1940 – July 25, 1947
- Korean Conflict: June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955
- Vietnam Era: August 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975
- Persian Gulf War: Check with the Veterans Administration Office
- Afghanistan & Iraq: Check with the Veterans Administration Office
Peacetime Service- Veterans who served during peacetime must meet the following criteria:
- At least 181 days of continuous active duty with no dishonorable discharge. If you were discharged early due to a service-related disability, contact your Regional VA Office for eligibility verification.
- Eligible service periods include:
- July 26, 1947 – June 26, 1950
- February 1, 1955 – August 4, 1964
- May 8, 1975 – September 7, 1980 (Enlisted) or October 16, 1981 (Officer)
- Enlisted veterans whose service began after September 7, 1980, or officers whose service began after October 16, 1981, must have completed 24 months of continuous active duty and been honorably discharged.
Reserves and National Guard- Eligible individuals include:
- Certain U.S. citizens who served in the armed forces of a government allied with the United States during World War II.
- Surviving spouses of eligible veterans who died as a result of their service and who have not remarried.
- Spouses of armed forces members who served on active duty and were listed as a POW or MIA for more than 90 days.
- For more detailed information on the restoration process and eligibility requirements, visit the VA's Official Website.
Eligibility Criteria for VA Loans:
To qualify for a VA loan, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans must have served in the active military, naval, or air service and received an honorable discharge. While the VA does not set a minimum credit score requirement, individual lenders may have their own standards, so it’s essential to check with one of our licensed loan officers at Vision Home Mortgage for the specifics. There is no maximum loan amount for VA loans, but the VA does limit the amount it will guarantee based on the county’s conforming loan limits. If two individuals wish to apply for a VA loan together, they must be married, or both be Veterans with entitlement, ensuring both borrowers can effectively leverage the benefits of the loan. Additionally, borrowers must demonstrate their ability to repay the loan, which means lenders will evaluate income, employment history, and other financial factors during the approval process. For personalized guidance on your eligibility and to explore your options, reach out to our team at Vision Home Mortgage today!A VA home loan must be used to finance your personal residence within the United States and its territories. You have choices for the type of home you purchase:
Existing Single-Family Home
Townhouse or Condominium in a VA-Approved Project
New Construction Residence
Manufactured Home or Lot
Home Refinances and Certain Types of Home Improvements
You can learn more about the different VA approved property types here.
- 100% Financing & No Down Payment Loans
- No Private Mortgage (PMI)
- No Penalties for Prepaying the Loan
- Competitive Interest Rates
- Qualification is Easier than a Conventional Loan
- Sellers Pay Some of the Closing Costs
- Can be combined with additional down payment assistance to reduce closing costs
- You can learn more about the benefits of a VA home loan here.
If you're considering a VA guaranteed loan, reaching out to us at Vision Home Mortgage is your first step toward homeownership. Our experienced team will guide you through the entire application process, ensuring you understand your options and eligibility. We can help you obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), a crucial document that verifies your VA loan benefits.
Once your eligibility is confirmed, we’ll assist you in completing the loan application, gathering the necessary documentation such as proof of income, tax returns, and other financial details. Our team works closely with you to make this process as smooth as possible, ensuring all required information is submitted accurately. After your application is processed and reviewed, we will keep you informed every step of the way until closing. With Vision Home Mortgage by your side, applying for a VA guaranteed loan becomes a streamlined experience, allowing you to focus on finding your dream home. Contact us today at 702-736-3116 to get started or Apply Here!
Yes, it is possible for qualified veterans and service members to have two VA home loans simultaneously, depending on certain circumstances. Your VA loan eligibility is reusable, meaning that if you have paid off your prior VA loan and sold the property, you can have your eligibility restored. Additionally, on a one-time basis, your eligibility may be restored even if you still own the property, provided the prior VA loan has been fully paid off. To initiate the restoration process, the veteran must complete VA Form 26-1880 and submit it to the VA Eligibility Center. To prevent processing delays, it’s advisable to include supporting documentation that shows the previous loan has been paid in full and, if applicable, that the property was sold. This may include a paid-in-full statement from the former lender or a copy of the HUD-1 settlement statement. At Vision Home Mortgage, we can assist you with the restoration process, ensuring you have the necessary documentation and guidance. Having two VA loans can be a valuable option for veterans needing to purchase a second home for various reasons, such as relocating for work or investing in rental property. If you're considering taking advantage of this benefit, reach out to us today, and our experienced team will help you understand your eligibility and navigate the process smoothly.
Is a VA Home Loan Right for You?
VA home loans provide a unique path to homeownership for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain military spouses, offering valuable benefits like no down payment, competitive interest rates, and flexible credit requirements. By understanding the range of VA loan options, entitlements, eligibility requirements, and application steps, you can determine if a VA loan aligns with your financial and homeownership goals. Whether it's your first VA loan or you’re considering another, exploring these benefits and working with knowledgeable professionals can make the process smooth and rewarding.
