A VA loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for eligible veterans, active duty service members and surviving spouses. It offers zero down payment, no private mortgage insurance and competitive interest rates, so if you have served, this benefit can make owning a home more accessible and affordable.
Zero down and no PMIFor eligible veterans and service members
VA Loans at a Glance
0%
Down payment for eligible borrowers
No PMI
Private mortgage insurance is not required
620
Credit score many lenders look for
VA Loan Basics
Understanding VA Home Loans
What Are VA Home Loans?
VA home loans are government backed mortgages offered only to eligible veterans, active duty service members and surviving spouses. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, they make owning a home more affordable by removing the need for a down payment and private mortgage insurance, while still offering competitive interest rates.
Who Can Benefit from a VA Loan?
VA loans are designed for veterans, active duty military members, National Guard and Reserve service members, and eligible surviving spouses. They provide financial advantages that make it easier to buy a home, refinance an existing mortgage or even access your home equity. If you have served, checking your eligibility is a smart first step.
How Do VA Home Loans Work?
VA loans require no down payment, so eligible borrowers can finance 100% of the purchase price. There is no private mortgage insurance, which lowers your monthly payment. VA loans also offer competitive interest rates, flexible credit requirements and no VA loan limit for eligible buyers with full entitlement. Unless you are exempt, you pay a one time VA funding fee, which may be financed into the loan.
What Are the Different Types of VA Loans?
VA purchase loans let eligible buyers buy a home with no money down. The VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan, or IRRRL, often called a VA streamline refinance, helps lower the interest rate on an existing VA mortgage. A VA cash out refinance lets veterans tap into home equity for debt consolidation or home improvements.
What Are the Benefits of a VA Loan?
With zero down payment, a VA loan removes the burden of a large upfront cost. No PMI keeps monthly payments lower, which can save borrowers thousands over the life of the loan. VA loans also offer competitive interest rates, flexible credit requirements and limits on closing costs, which all help make buying a home more affordable.
Is a VA Loan Right for You?
If you are an eligible service member or veteran looking for a zero down payment mortgage with lower monthly costs, a VA loan may be your best option. Its exclusive benefits and flexible terms make it a cost effective way to own a home. Talk with an ARBOR loan originator to confirm your eligibility and compare your options.
Why ARBOR
Why Choose ARBOR Financial Group for Your VA Home Loan
VA loans offer powerful benefits for eligible veterans and active duty service members, and our team is here to help you make the most of them. We work with VA approved lenders to find competitive rates, zero down payment options and affordable mortgage solutions.
From getting your Certificate of Eligibility to closing on your home, we guide you through every step so the process stays clear and simple.
Ready to use your VA home loan benefits? Contact ARBOR Financial Group today to get started.
A VA home loan is a mortgage backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It helps eligible veterans, active duty service members and certain military spouses buy a home with favorable terms, including no down payment for qualified borrowers and no private mortgage insurance.
What are the benefits of a VA loan?
The main benefits are no down payment for qualified borrowers, no private mortgage insurance, competitive interest rates and flexible credit guidelines compared with many conventional loan programs. VA loans also place limits on closing costs, which helps keep the upfront cost of buying a home lower.
Who qualifies for a VA home loan?
VA loans are available to eligible veterans, active duty service members, National Guard members, reservists and some surviving spouses of military personnel. You must meet the service requirements and obtain a Certificate of Eligibility, and an ARBOR loan originator can guide you through that step.
How much do I need to put down on a VA loan?
Most eligible borrowers can put nothing down. With full entitlement, a VA loan lets you buy a home with no down payment. A down payment is optional, but putting 5% or more down lowers your VA funding fee.
What is the VA funding fee?
The VA funding fee is a one time fee paid to the Department of Veterans Affairs that helps keep the program running. On a first use purchase it is 2.15% with less than 5% down, 1.5% with 5% or more and 1.25% with 10% or more. After first use it is 3.3% with less than 5% down, and it may be financed into the loan.
Who is exempt from the VA funding fee?
Veterans who receive VA disability compensation do not pay the funding fee. Eligible surviving spouses who receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation are also exempt, as are active duty service members who have received the Purple Heart. An ARBOR loan originator can help you confirm whether the exemption applies to you.
Do VA loans require mortgage insurance?
No. VA loans do not require private mortgage insurance, which can help reduce your monthly payment compared with other loan types that allow a low down payment. Instead, borrowers who are not exempt pay a one time VA funding fee, which may be financed into the loan.
What credit score do I need for a VA loan?
The VA does not set a minimum credit score, but many lenders look for a score around 620. Approval also depends on your income, debt levels and overall financial stability, so an ARBOR loan originator will review your full financial picture.
What types of homes can I buy with a VA loan?
VA loans can be used to buy a primary residence, such as a single family home, a townhome or an approved condominium. Some multi unit properties may also qualify if you live in one of the units as your home.
Can I refinance with a VA loan?
Yes. The VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan, often called a VA streamline refinance, may help you lower your interest rate with fewer documentation requirements, and its funding fee is 0.5%. A VA cash out refinance lets you tap into your home equity instead.
How long does it take to close a VA loan?
Timing depends on your file, the VA appraisal and underwriting once a purchase contract is in place. Working with an experienced mortgage team and having your documents ready can help keep your closing on schedule.
Your Path to Homeownership Starts Here
See if a VA loan fits your plans. Compare your options in a few minutes, or talk with a licensed ARBOR loan originator today.
*Important notice: By refinancing your existing loan, your total finance charges may be higher over the life of the loan. The content provided within this website is presented for information purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Information and/or dates are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit approval. Other restrictions may apply. ARBOR Financial Group is not affiliated with an agency of the federal government, HUD, FHA or VA. THIS IS NOT A GOVERNMENT DOCUMENT. HUD, FHA or VA did not distribute or approve this material.
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