VA Loans
Zero down payment, no mortgage insurance, and some of the best rates in the market — available exclusively to those who’ve served our country.
You earned this benefit. Let’s make sure you use it to its full potential.
What Is a VA Loan?
A VA loan is a mortgage benefit guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It’s available to active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses. The VA doesn’t lend the money directly — they guarantee a portion of the loan, which allows lenders to offer exceptional terms.
VA loans are widely considered the best mortgage product available. No down payment required, no monthly mortgage insurance, competitive interest rates, and more flexible credit guidelines than conventional loans. It’s a benefit that was earned through service.
Who Is This Best For?
If you’re an active-duty service member, veteran, National Guard or Reserve member, or a surviving spouse of a veteran who died in service or from a service-connected disability, you may be eligible. Even if you’ve used your VA benefit before, you may be able to use it again — VA entitlement can be restored.
VA loans work for purchasing a primary residence. They’re not available for investment properties or vacation homes, but the terms are so favorable that many veterans use them as their primary financing tool for every home they buy.
What You’ll Need to Qualify
- Eligibility: Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA — I can help you obtain this
- Credit score: No VA minimum, but most lenders require 580-620+
- Down payment: $0 — truly zero down payment required
- Debt-to-income ratio: Generally 41%, but higher ratios possible with residual income
- Funding fee: One-time VA funding fee (can be rolled into the loan); exempt for disabled veterans
The VA funding fee ranges from 1.25% to 3.3% depending on your service category, down payment, and whether it’s your first VA loan use. Veterans receiving VA disability compensation are exempt from this fee entirely.
Key Advantages of VA Loans
Zero Down Payment
Buy a home with absolutely nothing down — no other major loan program offers this. This alone can save you tens of thousands of dollars at closing.
No Monthly Mortgage Insurance
Unlike FHA and conventional loans with low down payments, VA loans never charge monthly mortgage insurance. This can save you $200-$500+ per month compared to other loan types.
Best-in-Market Interest Rates
VA loans consistently offer lower interest rates than conventional and FHA loans. Even a small rate advantage adds up to significant savings over the life of your loan.
Reusable Benefit
Your VA loan entitlement isn’t a one-time use. You can use it again and again throughout your life — buy, sell, and buy again with the same incredible terms.
Common Questions About VA Loans
Can I use my VA benefit more than once?
Yes. Your VA entitlement can be restored once you sell the home and pay off the previous VA loan. In some cases, you can even have two VA loans at the same time if you have remaining entitlement. I can help you figure out exactly where you stand.
Is there a maximum loan amount for VA?
For veterans with full entitlement, there is no loan limit — you can borrow as much as the lender will approve based on your income and credit. If you have reduced entitlement (from a prior VA loan still active), county loan limits may apply.
What is the VA funding fee?
It’s a one-time fee paid to the VA that helps sustain the program. For a first-time use with zero down, it’s typically 2.15% of the loan amount. It can be rolled into your loan so you don’t pay it out of pocket. Veterans with a service-connected disability are fully exempt.
Can my spouse’s income help me qualify?
Yes — if your spouse is on the loan, their income counts toward qualification. A non-veteran spouse can be a co-borrower on a VA loan. The VA also considers “residual income” (money left after major expenses), which can help you qualify even with higher debt ratios.
Ready to Use Your VA Benefit?
No pressure. No obligation. Just clarity.
Most people start with a quick call — it makes everything easier.
Garry McDonald | NMLS #1922072 | DRE# 01781703 | (949) 534-6686