If you’re searching for evidence that it’s possible to make a good thing even better, take a look at the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs’ VA loan program. Created with the goal of helping veterans become homeowners, this popular loan program has long offered qualifying borrowers some amazing advantages. Now, the new updates to VA loan limits (courtesy of the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019) are creating even more opportunities for would-be homebuyers. [Read more…] about Updates to VA Loan Limits

What do you need to know about VA loans and short sales? That depends. Are you an eligible service member or veteran planning to use your entitlement to purchase a home with a VA loan? Or, are you a homeowner who used a VA loan to purchase a home and is wondering about the consequences of a short sale? Whether you’re buying, selling, or interested in buying again after a prior short sale, it’s smart to explore the possibilities. [Read more…] about VA Loans and Short Sales

With no need for a down payment, limits on closing costs, and no requirements for mortgage insurance, VA loans are an appealing option when you’re purchasing a home. That’s especially true if you don’t want to invest a lot of cash at the start. However, using a VA loan does incur a funding fee. Why does this fee exist? How does it work? How much is the VA funding fee? [Read more…] about How Much Is the VA Funding Fee?

It’s no secret that VA loans come with some appealing perks. Available through the loan program offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), VA loans make it possible for eligible borrowers to purchase a home with 100-percent financing and attractive interest rates. Plus, they offer relaxed credit requirements and limits on closing costs, and they don’t require private mortgage insurance. All that said, keep in mind that these loans have certain rules that must be followed if you hope to get the maximum benefit. To make the process go as quickly and smoothly as possible, review our essential VA loan tips below. [Read more…] about Essential VA Loan Tips

Home loans are not one-size-fits-all products. The priorities and circumstances of aspiring homebuyers vary widely, and a multitude of loan products with different terms and requirements have evolved to meet their needs. With so many options to weigh, smart borrowers tend to ask a lot of questions as they explore the possibilities for financing a home purchase. What are some common questions about VA loans? [Read more…] about Common Questions About VA Loans

Experts typically encourage prospective homebuyers to visit their mortgage lender before they put any significant effort into scouring the internet for home listings and attending open houses. Why? So that they can get prequalified before they invest their time and emotions in serious house shopping. Once you’ve learned how to prequalify for a VA home loan, you can feel confident moving forward with your search for the perfect home. Scroll down to learn what’s involved in prequalifying for a VA loan. [Read more…] about How to Prequalify for a VA Home Loan

Is securing a VA rate-and-term refinance on your to-do list? If it’s not, should it be? Taking a little time to explore this option and its potential pros and cons can help you decide.

“When it comes to mortgages, VA loans are about the best you can get,” according to Forbes. With their competitively low interest rates, relaxed qualification standards, possible 100-percent financing, and freedom from mortgage insurance, VA loans have many appealing qualities. It’s easy to see why both financial experts and borrowers are fond of the various purchase and refinance offerings from the loan program of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). What does the VA offer for those interested in a rate-and-term refinance?

[Read more…] about The VA Rate-and-Term Refinance

How long does it take to close a VA loan? If you’re considering funding your next home purchase with a VA loan, it’s smart to have the answer to this question handy. After all, government-backed loan programs have a bit of a reputation. Many people mistakenly believe that buying a home with this type of loan or selling to someone who is using one will lead to headaches, delays, and extra stress. Once you understand that closing on a VA loan won’t be a marathon event, you might find that it’s an excellent option for your situation.  [Read more…] about How Long Does It Take to Close a VA Loan?

There are many reasons to consider refinancing. You may want to get a lower interest rate or change your loan term. You might be interested in cashing in some of your equity or buying out someone who’s currently on the deed. Alternately, you might want to get rid of private mortgage insurance or change from an adjustable-rate loan to a fixed-rate loan or vice versa. Could a VA streamline refinance help you reach your goals? Exploring the pros and cons of VA streamline refinance can help you find out. [Read more…] about The Pros and Cons of VA Streamline Refinance

Termites strike terror into homeowners’ hearts. That might sound extreme, but it’s actually a reasonable response. Consider these statistics from Orkin. Experts estimate that property owners in the U.S. spend some $5 billion annually to control termites and repair the damage that these wood-eating insects cause. Does that seem like a lot of money? It’s also a lot of structures. Each year, termites damage roughly 600,000 homes in the U.S. In some cases, the damage is minor. In others, the cost of repairs will total thousands of dollars. Occasionally, termite damage is so extensive and so harmful to the structural integrity of the building that the only reasonable path forward is to demolish the house and start fresh.

With that kind of track record, termites are rightfully recognized as a serious threat to the health and safety of a home, so lenders often require that homebuyers get a termite inspection. What if you’re using a VA loan from the home loan program offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)? Let’s explore what’s involved in getting a VA termite inspection. [Read more…] about The VA Termite Inspection: What You Need to Know