Pre-qualify

VA home loan.

A benefit earned through service. Often no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance, with the details explained before anything is offered.

VA home loan, at a glance.

What it is

A mortgage guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The guarantee is what allows many buyers to purchase with nothing down.

Often used for

Buying a primary residence with little or no money down, and without the monthly mortgage insurance other low down payment loans carry.

Keep in mind

There is a one-time funding fee for most borrowers, and the home must be your primary residence. Your loan officer explains both.

How it works

  1. 1

    Confirm your eligibility

    We help you get your Certificate of Eligibility, or confirm the one you have.

  2. 2

    Your loan officer compares VA against the alternatives

    VA against FHA and conventional, including what the funding fee means for you.

  3. 3

    You choose, then we close

    Pre-approval, offer, VA appraisal and closing. Support continues after.

Who it tends to fit.

Service history

You are a veteran, an active service member or an eligible surviving spouse.

Little set aside

You would rather keep your savings than put them down.

A primary residence

You will live in the home you buy.

Avoiding mortgage insurance

You want a low down payment without a monthly insurance premium.

If you have strong savings, a conventional loan may still compare well once the funding fee is counted. Your loan officer shows you both.

Questions about VA loans.

Who is eligible?

Veterans, active-duty service members, members of the National Guard and Reserves, and some surviving spouses. Service requirements vary and your loan officer helps you confirm yours.

Is there really no down payment?

For most eligible buyers within the entitlement limits, yes. Your loan officer tells you where you stand.

What is the funding fee?

A one-time fee that supports the program. It can be rolled into the loan and is waived for some borrowers, including those with a service-connected disability.

Can I use it more than once?

Yes. Entitlement can be restored after a loan is paid off, and in some cases used while another VA loan is open.

Can I buy a rental with it?

No. The home must be your primary residence, though a multi-unit property where you live in one unit may qualify.

Other ways to buy