Your military service is the starting point
Veterans, active-duty members, and Guard or Reserve members may qualify based on their service. Some surviving spouses may qualify too. Your COE confirms benefit eligibility; it is not loan approval. The VA eligibility guide explains how service history affects your benefit.
Your finances still need a review
VA does not set a minimum credit score, but lenders may. Your income, debts and savings also matter. Ask us to review your situation rather than rule yourself out based on a score. The VA benefit and lender-approval guide explains the difference.
Buy a home you plan to live in
Eligible homes can include a house, a condo in a VA-approved project, or a two- to four-unit home where you live in one unit. Ask about the property early. A VA purchase is not for a vacation home or a rental you will not live in.
The appraisal and inspection do different jobs
A VA appraisal gives an opinion of the home’s value and checks basic property standards. Some repairs may need to be made before closing. A separate home inspection helps you learn more about the home’s condition so you can decide whether to buy.
Check your benefit if you have used VA before
Tell us about any past VA loans and whether you plan to keep the old home. You may be able to restore your benefit or use what remains. That review helps show whether you would need a down payment.