Termites strike fear into the hearts of property owners for good reason. While these pests are small in size, their destructive power is huge. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, termites cause billions of dollars worth of property damage each year. And according to American Pest, the average cost to repair termite damage is $3,300. With numbers like that, it’s no wonder that homebuyers need to think carefully about scheduling a pest inspection before purchasing property. In fact, many lenders and loan programs insist on these inspections. What do you need to know about pest inspections for VA loans? [Read more…] about Pest Inspections for VA Loans
VA Loan Refinancing Options
It’s easy to understand the appeal of VA loans. As Military.com reports, these loans allow qualified borrowers to purchase a home with 100-percent financing, competitive interest rates, relaxed credit requirements, no private mortgage insurance, and limited closing costs. But what if interest rates have dropped substantially since you got your VA loan? Or what if you’re already a homeowner but you wish that you’d used a VA loan? You’re in luck. Qualified borrowers eager to redo their mortgage can choose between two VA loan refinancing options. [Read more…] about VA Loan Refinancing Options
Do VA Loans Have PMI?
If you’re new to the world of real estate, you’ll quickly learn that there are many new terms to understand: amortization, equity, principal, private mortgage insurance, etc. When private mortgage insurance (PMI) is discussed, it’s often in the context of avoidance. For obvious reasons, most homebuyers wish to bypass PMI if possible. Because we specialize in loans backed by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA), many homebuyers come to us asking, “Do VA loans have PMI?” They’re typically delighted with the answer. [Read more…] about Do VA Loans Have PMI?
How to Assume a VA Loan
Why would you want to know how to assume a VA loan? Assuming a VA loan could be a fantastic way to snag a home loan with amazing terms without a lot of fuss, saving you time and a significant amount of money when it comes to interest rates and closing costs. VA loans are famous for their favorable terms, but they’re typically only available to those who have earned their access to the program through military service. That said, assuming a VA loan is different from taking one out. And you don’t have to be a service member or veteran to assume a VA loan – civilians with the right qualifications are eligible. [Read more…] about How to Assume a VA Loan
VA Loans for Manufactured Homes
Is a manufactured home your idea of the perfect place to hang your hat? If you’re hoping to purchase a manufactured home with a loan from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ home loan program, then you’re in luck. There are VA loans for manufactured homes. What do you need to know to utilize a VA loan to purchase a manufactured home? [Read more…] about VA Loans for Manufactured Homes
Updates to VA Loan Limits
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
VA Loans and Short Sales
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
How Much Is the VA Funding Fee?
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?
Essential VA Loan Tips
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
Common Questions About VA Loans
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
