If you've served in the U.S. military, a VA loan might be an excellent way to finance your first home. If you're interested in using this benefit, it's important to know the steps involved. Here is a basic guide to buying your first home with a VA loan:
A certificate of eligibility from the VA shows you meet the requirements to apply for a VA loan. These could be either personal military requirements or surviving spouse requirements. While you won't need this document until it's time to close on the loan, it's best to get it as early as possible to avoid paperwork delays.
Comparing lenders when applying for a mortgage is especially important if you're wanting a VA loan. Not every lender offers VA loans, and some who do specialize in a specific type of loan or type of client. Find a lender who offers first-time buyer benefits to veterans through your state.
VA loans don't require down payments, but it's still important to prepare some cash to pay for other expenses. Some of these costs include the earnest money deposits and moving expenses. You can also increase your odds of approval if you have strong cash savings, as lenders use this as a determining factor in your loan application process.
Finding a real estate agent who has experience working with military clients will benefit you in many ways. It also pays to find an agent who has worked with first-time homebuyers and can help you navigate the system with confidence. Try interviewing a few agents and asking about their prior experience and expertise. It can also help to inquire about any special training or certifications they might have received for working with military clients.
Buying your first home can be stressful, but if you're a military veteran, you have great opportunities for financing. Remember these tips when considering your loan options to make the best decision.
Hi, I'm Ronald Bixby and I'd love to assist you. Honor, Respect, and Integrity...These are qualities that were instilled in a small town in upstate NY and reaffirmed in the US Navy. I was raised in a town called Horseheads. After graduating High school, I decided to see the world and I went into the Navy. Although I wanted to see the world, I ended up joining the submarine force and unfortunately, they don't have too many windows on subs! After getting out of the Navy, I found myself with an opportunity to get into the restaurant business and that's where I spent the next 30 years. I am blessed with an amazing wife, who is my rock, 4 beautiful daughters, and a son... Parenthood has a way of keeping you on your toes! However, thinking that I was missing something, I decided to make a change and started exploring the Real Estate business, and the more I looked into it, the more I knew this was the right profession for me. I like to help people and assisting a family buy or sell a home is a fantastic opportunity to do just that. If I can make someone half as happy as I am...it's a great day. Let me help you be happy.