Understanding Your VA Loan Benefit
VA loans are a powerful lending option giving Veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses the ability to purchase or refinance a home with major benefits.
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Active Duty Service Members, Veterans, National Guard, Reserves and Spouses of Service Members can qualify for the VA Home Loan Benefit. You can find your entitlement amount by logging into your VA account and checking your benefits.
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A VA loan is one of the few loan programs that offers the incredible benefit of 100% financing, requiring no down payment. This means eligible Veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses can purchase a home without needing to save for a large upfront cost, making homeownership more accessible.
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While VA loans technically have no set loan limits, some lenders may impose their own caps. At APM, we go beyond the norm, offering VA loans up to $5 million, depending on your available entitlement. This expanded flexibility empowers eligible borrowers to pursue higher-value homes without the usual financial constraints.
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With VA loans, homebuyers enjoy the benefit of no mortgage insurance, even with zero down payment. Buyers save not only on upfront costs but also thousands of dollars over the life of the loan. Additionally, the absence of monthly insurance premiums gives buyers greater purchasing power, making it easier to afford the home they want.
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Since VA loans have more lenient credit requirements, higher debt-to-income (DTI) allowances, and no down payment needed, VA loans provide greater flexibility than many conventional loan programs. This makes it easier for qualified borrowers to secure financing, even with lower credit scores or less savings.
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VA home loans are designed to keep costs low for Veterans by offering competitive fees and limited closing costs. While there is a one-time VA funding fee, many borrowers can roll it into their loan or waive it if they qualify for exemptions, such as those with a service-related disability. Additionally, VA loans cap the fees lenders can charge, and sellers are often allowed to cover part of the closing costs, making homeownership even more affordable for Veterans.
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The VA home loan benefit is a lifetime privilege for eligible Veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses. There’s no expiration date, meaning you can use it whenever you're ready—whether it's for your first home, your next home, or even to refinance - and you can use it over and over again. As long as you meet eligibility requirements, your benefit is always available, giving you the flexibility to pursue homeownership on your timeline.
Explore Our VA Loans Guidebook
Download our FREE eBook with all the details on VA loans.
Who Qualifies for a VA Loan?
Veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses may qualify for a VA loan if they have satisfactory credit, adequate income, and a valid Certificate of Eligibility.
A Leading VA Lender Here to Serve You
Additional Resources
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Free Download: VA Loans Checklist
Download our FREE checklist to keep you on track during your VA loan process. -
6 Common Questions About VA Loans
Got questions? We've got answers! Read our article about the 6 most commonly asked questions about VA Loans. -
Biggest VA Home Loan Myths—BUSTED
There is lots of misinformation out there about the VA Home Loan Benefit - read on for the real deal on VA loans. -
Qualifying for VA Jumbo Loans
Looking to get a VA Jumbo loan? Read our article about what you need to know today!