VA Loan
LOAN PROGRAMS
VA Home Loans
The VA Loan provides veterans with a federally guaranteed home loan which requires no down payment. This program was designed to provide housing and assistance for veterans and their families.
The Veterans Administration provides insurance to lenders in the case that you default on a loan. Because the mortgage is guaranteed, lenders will offer a lower interest rate and terms than a conventional home loan. VA home loans are available in all 50 states. A VA loan may also have reduced closing costs and no prepayment penalties.
Additionally there are services that may be offered to veterans in danger of defaulting on their loans. VA home loans are available to military personal that have either served 181 days during peacetime, 90 days during war, or a spouse of serviceman either killed or missing in action.
What is a VA Loan?
The Veteran Administration's Loan originated in 1944 through the Servicemen's Readjustment Act; also know as the GI Bill. It was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and was designed to provide Veterans with a federally-guaranteed home loan with no down payment. VA loans are made by private lenders like banks, savings & loans, and mortgage companies to eligible Veterans for homes to live in. The lender is protected against loss if the loan defaults. Depending on the program option, the loan may or may not default.
Who is Eligible for a VA Loan?
Wartime/Conflict Veterans
Veterans who were NOT Dishonorably Discharged, and served at least 90 daysWorld War II – September 16, 1940 to July 25, 1947Korean Conflict – June 27, 1950 to January 31, 1955Vietnam Era – August 5, 1964 to May 7, 1975Persian Gulf War - Check with the Veterans Administration OfficeAfghanistan & Iraq – Check with the Veterans Administration OfficeVeterans Administration website www.va.govPeacetime Service
At least 181 days of continuous active duty with no dishonorable discharge. If you were discharged earlier due to a service-related disability you should contact your Regional VA Office for eligibility verification.
July 26, 1947 to June 26, 1950February 1, 1955 to August 4, 1964, or May 8, 1975 to September 7, 1980 (Enlisted), or to October 16, 1981 (Officer)Enlisted Veterans whose service began after September 7, 1980, or officers who service began after October 16, 1981, must have completed 24-months of continuous active duty and been honorably dischargedReserves and National Guard
Certain U.S. Citizens who served in the Armed Forces of a government allied with the United States during World War II.Surviving spouse of an eligible Veteran who died resulting from service, and has not remarried.The spouse of an Armed Forces member who served Active Duty, and was listed as a POW or MIA for more than 90-days.What type of home can I buy with a VA loan?
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 HomeTownhouse or Condominium in a VA-Approved ProjectNew Construction ResidenceManufactured Home or LotHome Refinances and Certain Types of Home ImprovementsWhat are the benefits of a VA Loan?
How do I apply for a VA guaranteed loan?
You can apply for a VA Loan with any mortgage lender that participates in the program. In addition to the application requirements from your lender, you will need the following at application time:
Certificate of Eligibility from the Veterans Administration by submitting a completed VA Form 26-1880.Proof of Military Service from a VA Eligibility CenterIf I have already obtained one VA Loan, can I get another one?
What are the disadvantages of a VA Loan?
If I have already obtained one VA Loan, can I get another one?
Yes, your eligibility is reusable depending on the circumstance. If you have paid-off your prior VA Loan, and disposed the property, you can have your eligibility restored again. Also, on a 1-time basis, you may have your eligibility restored if your prior VA Loan has been paid-off, but you still own the property. Either way, the Veteran must send the Veterans Administration a completed VA Form 16-1880 to the VA Eligibility Center. To prevent delays in processing, it's advisable to include evidence that the prior loan has been fully paid, and if applicable, the property was disposed. A paid-in-full statement from the former lender or a copy of the HUD-1 settlement statement must be submitted.
What are the disadvantages of a VA Loan?
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