If you’re a veteran who is thinking of purchasing a home or refinancing the home you have, you may want to consider a VA loan instead of conventional financing. This government loan program was created to help current and former U.S. military service members, active-duty personnel, reservists, and eligible surviving spouses become homeowners.

There are some key benefits of a VA loan:

  • In most cases, you can buy a home with no down payment. VA loans are one of the last zero-down home loans available today.
  • You won’t have to pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), a monthly expense that conventional borrowers are required to pay unless they put down at least 20% of the loan amount.
  • There is no prepayment penalty. A VA loan won’t restrict your right to sell your home if you decide you no longer want to own it.
  • You don’t need to be a first-time homebuyer to get a VA loan. As long as you pay it off each time, you can use the benefit again and again.
  • There is more credit and income flexibility. This  makes it easier for eligible borrowers to qualify

Keep in mind, eligible borrowers may only use VA loans for their primary residence. You can’t finance an investment property or vacation home with a VA loan.

Before you can apply for a VA loan, you must prove you are eligible. You will also need the following:

  • A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA.
  • A minimum FICO® Score of 620.
  • A debt-to-income ratio (DTI) of no more than 60%.
  • Money to cover the funding fee charged by the VA.

If you are ready to buy a home, refinance, or just want more information, click here to find a First Citizens home loan expert nearest you or call 800-423-1602.

Thank you for reading this blog and to all who have served and are serving our nation, we are grateful for your service!