Military and Veterans

VA Home Loan Options for Veterans & Military Families

Buying a home as a veteran or active-duty service member comes with unique benefits and opportunities. The VA Home Loan Program, backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, is one of the most powerful tools available to help you achieve homeownership.

What is a VA Loan?

A VA loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs for eligible service members, veterans, and surviving spouses. These loans offer significant advantages:

No Down Payment – Finance 100% of the home’s purchase price.
No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) – Unlike conventional loans, VA loans eliminate this extra monthly cost.
Competitive Interest Rates – Typically lower than other mortgage types.
Limited Closing Costs – The VA caps what lenders can charge, and sellers can help with costs.
Lifetime Benefit – You can use your VA loan benefit multiple times.

Key Benefits of VA Loans

No Down Payment: Many borrowers can finance 100% of the home's purchase price.
No PMI: Saves you hundreds monthly compared to conventional loans.
Competitive Interest Rates: Lower rates mean long-term savings.
Limited Closing Costs: VA limits what lenders can charge; sellers can contribute.
Lifetime Benefit: Use your VA loan benefit multiple times.

How VA Loans Work

Verify Eligibility – Meet minimum active-duty service requirements.
Get Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) – Apply online, through your lender, or by mail using VA Form 26-1880.
Apply with a Lender – VA loans are issued by private lenders, not the VA.
Meet Lender Requirements – Credit and income standards apply.
Pay the VA Funding Fee – A one-time fee (waived for some disabled veterans).
Close on Your Home – Complete the process and move in!

Who is Eligible for a COE?

Eligibility depends on your service history:
- Active-duty members and veterans who meet service requirements during wartime or peacetime.
- National Guard and Reservists – Typically six years of honorable service or federal activation.
- Surviving spouses – If your veteran spouse died during service or from a service-connected disability and you have not remarried.

What is a COE and Why Do You Need It?

A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) proves to lenders that you qualify for a VA-backed loan.
How to get your COE:
- Work with a VA-approved lender (fastest option).
- Apply online at VA.gov.
- Apply by mail using VA Form 26-1880.

✅ Ready to start your journey? Contact Todd Bouchard today to learn how you can take advantage of your VA benefits and find the perfect home.