×

Go Back

Advice Topics

Top Contributors (View All)

Find a Top Real Estate Agent Near You

Search Now

How do VA loans work?

My wife is active military and we are hoping to buy our first home. Is there any reason why we shouldn't use a VA loan? How do we get started?
Asked By Jamie L | McLean, VA | 555 views | Buying | 1 year ago
Answer(5)
Sort By:
profile img
Pro
91 Answers
Lisa and Greg Harris

eXp Realty, LLC

(42)

This is a great question for your lender. And I recommend working with a local lender that has knowledge of the VA loan process. I also recommend talking with a local REALTOR that has knowledge of VA loan home options. Being that yo uare in VA I am sure there are many REALTORS and Lenders that have this expertise as it is a heavily Veteran populated area. As a REALTOR, I work with a lot of veterans in an area with several military bases and help veterans walk through this process. There are a few more things to look at when looking to purchase a home with a VA loan. There are conditions of the home that must be met and this in most cases includes being able to have a clear CL-100 letter of inspection. This means no current termite of water damage. It must be in good livable condition with windows and doors that lock and other items of this nature. Reach out to a local VA lender and REALTOR. They can give you personal specifics for your situation.
profile img
Novice
1 Answer
HEATHER MEYERS

Ignite Realty Brokered by LPT Realty

Hi Jamie, I would go the VA route. 100% is financed and you would only need closing cost. Depending on your credit scores and the price range you are looking in you may also qualify for assistance with the closing cost. I see that you are in Virginia, I have some great lenders that do VA loans as I am in large military community in Va. Let me know if you would like anymore help.

Are you ready to find a top agent near you?

Browse profiles of the highest ranked agents in your area and find one that meets your specific needs.

Search
profile img
Rising Star
11 Answers
Scott Carlson

BRIX Real Estate

(1)

Hi Jamie, VA loans are a great option in most cases with you not having to put down a lot of money to get the loan. Your credit scores will be looked at but if there is work needed on that front, an experienced loan officer can guide you on how best to increase your situation the fastest. They can also go through the pros and cons of VA vs Conventional loans, and there are times when going Conventional makes more sense, it all comes down to your specific situation. Best of luck on your search, Thank you to your family for their service.
profile img
Rising Star
11 Answers
Pauline Dent

Keller Williams Chantilly Ventures

There are many things to consider when choosing the loan right for you. Having active military status opens up the possibility to compare a VA loan to a Conventional or FHA type loan to name a few. I would suggest you consider a comparison of interest rate, cash to close, to your monthly payment and consider how long it will take to get a loan closed when looking to lock in with the lender and program right for you. Happy to help if you would like a 30 year veteran agent!
profile img
Novice
1 Answer
Mandy Aufenkamp

EXP Realty

(18)

Hey Jamie, I do 80% VA loans where I am from. Usually VA loan is always going to be a better option. Unless you do not have any disability ratings and are going to pay a large funding fee and have the ability to make a down payment, then I would suggest to discuss the Conventional options with your lender. I would say 90% of the time VA is the better way to go though. Best of Luck on your home search!

Related Questions

  • What is the first step in buying a home?

    • Asked by Mike M.
    • 752 views
    • Buying
    • 3 years ago
    27 Answers

  • How to buy a house without closing costs or down payments?

    • Asked by Timothy S.
    • 855 views
    • Buying
    • 3 years ago
    8 Answers
Search for Agents by Top U.S Cities
Search for Agents by States
Search for Company by States