For many veterans and active-duty service members, a VA home loan is one of the most valuable benefits they've earned. Yet despite its advantages, misconceptions about VA financing often prevent eligible buyers from taking full advantage of the program.
If you've heard that VA loans are difficult to use, require a large down payment, or are less attractive to sellers, it's time to separate fact from fiction.
In our latest video, mortgage expert Elena Boland of Wholesale Mortgage Services shares seven important facts every veteran should know before purchasing a home with a VA loan.
▶️ Watch the full video here:
VA loans are designed to make homeownership more accessible for eligible veterans, active-duty military members, and certain surviving spouses. While every borrower's situation is unique, VA loans often offer significant advantages compared to many conventional financing options.
Understanding how the program works can help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of your earned benefits.
One of the biggest obstacles veterans face isn't qualifying for a VA loan; it's misinformation.
Some buyers believe VA loans take longer to close, are harder for sellers to accept, or involve unnecessary complications. In reality, experienced lenders and real estate professionals work with VA financing every day, and many transactions close just as smoothly as other loan types.
Knowing the facts can help you shop with confidence.
Many veterans don't realize they may still have VA loan eligibility even if they've already used the benefit.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to restore your entitlement after selling a home or even have remaining entitlement available for another purchase.
Before assuming you've exhausted your benefit, speak with a knowledgeable VA lender who can review your specific eligibility.
The VA funding fee helps keep the loan program available for future veterans and reduces the need for private mortgage insurance.
The amount varies based on factors such as:
Some veterans, including those with qualifying service-connected disabilities, may be exempt from paying the funding fee altogether.
Many buyers are surprised to learn that sellers may be able to contribute toward certain closing costs and concessions, depending on the transaction.
In today's market, seller concessions can sometimes make purchasing a home more affordable by helping offset upfront expenses.
Understanding what's allowed and negotiating strategically can save you money at closing.
Not every lender has the same level of experience with VA financing.
Working with a lender who regularly handles VA loans can help ensure:
An experienced lending team can often identify solutions before they become problems.
The VA appraisal is designed to protect both the buyer and the lender by ensuring the home's value supports the purchase price.
If questions arise during the appraisal process, the VA's Tidewater Initiative may provide an opportunity to submit additional market data before the final value is determined.
Understanding how this process works can help reduce stress if appraisal concerns come up during your transaction.
Every veteran's situation is different.
Questions about eligibility, occupancy requirements, entitlement restoration, funding fees, refinancing, or purchasing another home are all common. Getting answers early can make the buying process much smoother.
Meeting with a knowledgeable lender before you begin your home search helps you understand your options and move forward with confidence.
In my latest video, Elena Boland answers these questions in greater detail and clears up many misconceptions about VA home loans.
Whether you're purchasing your first home, relocating, or planning to use your VA benefit again, this conversation will help you better understand your options.
🎥 Watch the full video here: 7 VA Loan Facts Every Veteran Should Know
If you're considering purchasing a home in Reno, Sparks, or anywhere in Northern Nevada using your VA benefits, we'd be happy to help.
Whether you're just starting to explore your options or are ready to begin your home search, we're here to guide you through every step of the process.
Ken Angst, Realtor
Angst Real Estate Team | Haute Properties NV LLC
📲 Call or text: 775-525-0309
📧 Email: Ken@livinginsouthreno.com
Nevada License S.168655
Co-Host: Elena Boland, Senior Loan Officer
Wholesale Mortgage Services | NMLS #373615
📲 Call or text: 775-825-1600
https://wmsreno.com
Ken Angst and his team help clients throughout Northern Nevada navigate major life transitions through real estate.
They specialize in:
With deep local knowledge and a proven track record, the team is committed to helping you make confident real estate decisions. Subscribe to the Angst Real Estate Team's YouTube Channel for the latest information on the dynamic and diverse Reno/Sparks Real Estate Market. Contact Ken today!
#VALoan #VAHomeLoan #VeteranHomebuyer #MilitaryHomeBuyer #HomeBuyingTips #HautePropertiesNV #LivingInSouthReno #AngstRealEstateTeam #SellMyHome