Are you a veteran, active-duty service member, or eligible spouse thinking about buying a home? If so, you might qualify for a VA home loan—a powerful, government-backed mortgage option designed to make homeownership more accessible for those who’ve served.

Supporting Those Who Serve

Buying a home can feel overwhelming—whether it’s your first time or you’re looking to downsize. The VA Home Loan Program exists to ease that journey for veterans and active service members. It’s a benefit of your service and a valuable tool that could save you thousands in upfront costs and long-term payments.

What Is a VA Home Loan?

A VA home loan is a mortgage loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). While the VA doesn’t lend money directly, it partners with private lenders—like banks and mortgage companies—to provide loans with favorable terms to eligible borrowers.

The program was established in 1944 and has helped over 23 million service members, veterans, and their families buy or refinance a home—often with no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI) required.

Types of VA Home Loans

There are several loan options under the VA program, each tailored to different needs:

1. Native American Direct Loan (NADL)

For eligible Native American veterans purchasing, improving, or building a home on Federal Trust land. These loans are provided directly by the VA, offering competitive interest rates and no required down payment.

2. VA-Backed Purchase Loan

This is the most common VA loan, helping you buy a home with no down payment, competitive interest rates, and no PMI. Once you obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and meet lender requirements, you can secure financing with lower upfront costs than traditional loans.

3. Cash-Out Refinance Loan

If you already own a home and want to tap into your home’s equity, this option lets you refinance your existing mortgage—and take out cash at the same time. You can use the funds for home improvements, debt consolidation, education expenses, and more.

Unlike a HELOC, a cash-out refinance replaces your current mortgage with a new one, offering a lump sum of cash that you repay over time.

4. Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL)

Also known as a VA streamline refinance, this option helps veterans lower their interest rate or switch from an adjustable-rate mortgage to a fixed-rate one. There’s no home appraisal or income verification required, making it a quick and easy way to refinance an existing VA loan.

Why Choose a VA Home Loan?

Here are some major benefits of VA loans:

• No down payment required

• No PMI

• Competitive interest rates

• Flexible credit and income requirements

• Ability to finance up to 100% of the home’s value

• No prepayment penalties

• Option to purchase multi-unit properties

Who’s Eligible for a VA Loan?

To qualify for a VA home loan, you’ll need to meet one or more of the following:

• You’re an active-duty service member, veteran, or a member of the National Guard or Reserves

• You’ve served at least 90 days during wartime or 181 days during peacetime

• You’ve completed 6 years in the National Guard or Reserves

• You’re the surviving spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty or from a service-related disability

You’ll also need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which confirms your eligibility with the VA.

Getting Started: What You’ll Need

To apply for a VA home loan, gather the following:

• Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

• Employment history for the past two years

• Tax returns and W-2s for the past two years

• Recent bank statements

• Credit history documentation

A VA-approved lender will help you through the entire process—from verifying your COE to closing on your new home.

Let’s Make Homeownership a Reality

VA loans are one of the most affordable and accessible paths to homeownership for veterans and their families. If you think you may qualify, now’s the perfect time to take the next step.

Reach out today—our team of knowledgeable mortgage professionals is ready to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or just exploring your options, we’re here to help you find the loan that fits your unique needs.