Everything You Need to Know About VA Loans

michelleroberts01 • June 3, 2025

Everything You Need to Know About VA Loans

A VA loan is a powerful home financing option created specifically for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans offer significant advantages—including no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and competitive interest rates. They're designed to make homeownership more accessible for those who serve our country.


✅ Key Benefits of VA Loans


No Down Payment Required – Qualified buyers can purchase a home with zero money down.


No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) – This lowers monthly payments significantly.


Lower Interest Rates – Because VA loans are government-backed, lenders typically offer better terms.


Limited Closing Costs – There are caps on what lenders can charge you.


Reusable Benefit – Your VA loan benefit can be used more than once throughout your lifetime.


🪖 Who’s Eligible?


To be eligible for a VA loan, you typically need to meet one of the following:


You’re an active-duty service member or veteran with sufficient service history.


You’ve served in the National Guard or Reserves for at least six years.


You’re the unremarried spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected disability.


A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) will be required to verify your status—but don’t worry, I can help you get it quickly through your lender or online portals.


🏠 Types of VA Loans


VA Purchase Loan – Buy a primary residence with favorable terms and no down payment.


VA Streamline Refinance (IRRRL) – Refinance your current VA loan to get a lower interest rate with minimal paperwork.


Cash-Out Refinance – Access your home equity for expenses like renovations, education, or debt consolidation.


Native American Direct Loan – Available to eligible Native American veterans for properties on federal trust land.


💰 What’s the VA Funding Fee?


Most borrowers will pay a one-time VA funding fee, which helps keep the program running. This fee can be rolled into the loan, and some borrowers—such as those with service-connected disabilities—may be exempt.


📝 How the Process Works


Get Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) – Confirms you qualify for a VA loan.


Get Pre-Approved – Know your budget and strengthen your offer.


Find the Right Home – I’ll help you navigate neighborhoods, schools, and proximity to base.


Make an Offer – We’ll negotiate terms that protect your best interests.


VA Appraisal & Underwriting – Ensures the home is safe, sound, and worth the purchase price.


Close & Move In – We’ll finalize the details and get you settled.


🏡 Ready to Use Your VA Benefit?


As a Military Relocation Professional (MRP), I understand the unique pressures of military moves, tight timelines, and using VA financing. I work closely with lenders who specialize in VA loans and can walk you through each step of the process with confidence and care.


Let’s get started on finding your new home—reach out today and let me help you make the most of your well-earned benefits.


Michelle Roberts is a trusted REALTOR® since 2007 helping families buy and sell real estate across Coastal North Carolina. As the founder of Reignited Real Estate, Michelle is known for her commitment to service, ethics, and community-driven solutions. She specializes in residential homes, land, and affordable housing—and proudly represents Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity in transactions pro bono. Michelle has served on the Cape Fear REALTORS® Board of Directors and led the “100 Homes in 100 Counties” initiative, investing nearly $2 million into affordable housing across the state. Whether you're buying your first home, exploring investment property, or navigating land development, Michelle offers unmatched local knowledge and a heart for helping others.


Serving Coastal North Carolina real estate buyers and sellers in: Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Leland, Southport, Calabash, Bolivia, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, Jacksonville, Hampstead, Holly Ridge. Surf City, Topsail Beach and beyond.


📍 Workforce Housing Specialist | Military Relocation Specialist | Graduate REALTOR® Institute | At Home with Diversity | C2EX | Luxury Housing Specialist | e-Pro | Accredited Buyers Agent


📞 Let’s connect:
www.michelleroberts.realtor


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