VA home loans: understand the starting checks

Check benefit eligibility

VA-backed home loans can help eligible veterans, service members, and certain surviving spouses. Start with the service and eligibility requirements and the Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Your COE does not guarantee approval for a particular property or loan amount.

Compare the loan and lender requirements

Most VA-backed loans are made by private lenders. Lenders evaluate credit, income, and other requirements. A down payment may not be required in some situations, but costs and requirements depend on the transaction.

Review closing costs, any applicable funding fee or exemption, interest rate, and monthly affordability with the lender. Avoid assuming every VA loan is cost-free.

Choose the right next step

Read about purchase, refinance, or other loan options before requesting quotes. Compare written estimates and ask the lender to explain differences. Patriot Summit’s resource guide does not issue COEs, approve loans, or quote mortgage rates.

Keep exploring

Check the current requirements