A VA loan is one of the most valuable benefits you can earn through military service, letting eligible borrowers buy a home with no money down and often better terms than a conventional loan. Even so, a surprising number of myths still keep veterans, active duty service members, and their families from taking advantage of it, or lead them to think they don’t qualify when they actually do.
From assumptions about foreclosed properties to confusion over who’s eligible, these misconceptions can cost you money and opportunity. Here’s the truth behind five of the most common VA loan myths, so you can make an informed decision about your home-buying options.
Common VA Loan Misconceptions Debunked
Myth #1 – VA loans are not for short-sale or foreclosed real estate
VA home loans can be used to purchase foreclosed and short-sale with as little as no money down. VA-eligible borrowers may have an advantage over those who need up to 20% cash down to qualify for conventional loans. A VA appraisal certifies value and safety, and can spot red flags of distressed properties.
Myth #2 – Surviving spouses don’t qualify for VA mortgages
Veterans, active duty and certain surviving spouses are eligible for VA home loan benefits. And, surviving spouses may be exempt from paying the VA funding fee.
Myth #3 – Military members deployed overseas can’t get a VA-guaranteed loan.
Military members deployed overseas can sign a document called power of attorney or (POA) designating a spouse or someone else to act as on their behalf for a VA loan transaction. The POA grants permission for the attorney to sign on behalf of the VA-eligible borrower. The service member must give intent to obtain a VA loan through an email, letter or other correspondence. Only a spouse can satisfy the occupancy rule (move in within 60 days of closing) in a deployed service person’s place. Otherwise, the borrower serving away from home will be granted an extension of up to 12 months to occupy the home.
Myth #4 – All realtors are good VA home loan advisors
A VA certification for real estate agents does not exist. Therefore, a real estate agent should not be used as a reliable source for VA loan information. Real estate agents who are not well-informed about VA loans can even unintentionally dissuade VA-eligible borrowers from choosing the program which may be best for them. A VA-approved lender, one whose majority product is VA-backed loans, can provide reliable VA loan facts.
Myth #5 – VA loans take forever to close
If a lender specializes in VA home loans, then closing can often happen within 30 days. The VA-approved lender is given flexibility to decide on its own whether a borrower is a satisfactory credit risk. Even a borrower with extenuating circumstances may close quickly.
Take the Next Step
Now that you know the truth behind these common VA loan myths, you’re in a much better position to decide if this benefit is right for you. Here’s how to take the next step:
- Confirm your eligibility. Request your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) online, or ask a lender to pull it for you in minutes.
- Compare lenders. Not every lender specializes in VA loans, so look for one with a strong track record in the program. They’ll know the ins and outs and can often close faster.
- Get your rate quotes. Shopping around costs you nothing, and it’s the best way to see what interest rates you actually qualify for.
- Ask questions. A good VA lender will walk you through the process, including the funding fee, occupancy requirements and what to expect at closing.
If you’re ready to move forward, or just want more information, the first step is to get no-obligation rate quotes. It’s free, it doesn’t affect your credit, and it puts real numbers in front of you instead of guesswork.
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