Nearly 74.4% of VA homebuyers purchase with no down payment, according to Realtor.com. That makes VA Loans one of the most accessible paths to homeownership available today. Along with competitive rates and no monthly mortgage insurance, the program gives veterans and service members unique advantages that conventional loans can’t match. Whether you’re buying for the first time, refinancing, or using your benefit again, a VA Loan helps create stability and opportunity long after service ends.
What Makes VA Loans Different
A VA Loan is a mortgage option backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Unlike conventional mortgages, VA Loans open the door to homeownership with fewer hurdles. Veterans can often purchase a home with no down payment, competitive interest rates, and no monthly private mortgage insurance. Even if your credit isn’t perfect, the program offers more flexibility than most traditional loans.
The VA also provides resources if financial hardship ever threatens your home, giving veterans a support system that extends far beyond the closing table. It’s not just about buying a home; it’s about protecting it.
The Myth About One-Time Use
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that a VA Loan is a one-and-done benefit. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Veterans can use VA Loans again and again, as long as entitlement is available.
There’s also something called second-level entitlement, which allows eligible veterans to hold more than one VA Loan at a time. This is especially useful for active-duty service members who get Permanent Change of Station orders. Imagine being able to buy a new home at your next duty station without having to sell your current one first, that’s the power of the VA benefit you’ve earned.
Why It Matters
Transitioning out of service isn’t easy. Stable housing creates a foundation for family life, career growth, and peace of mind. Owning a home builds equity and gives you the freedom to plant roots in your community. That’s why I’ve dedicated my business to helping veterans unlock these benefits. It’s a way to continue serving, ensuring no veteran misses out on the opportunities they’ve earned.
How to Start the Process
If you’re wondering how to get started, it begins with a Certificate of Eligibility from the VA. From there, working with a VA-approved lender makes the process straightforward whether it’s your first purchase, a refinance, or using second-level entitlement for another home. Pre-approval gives you clarity on your budget and confidence when it’s time to make an offer.
Allison Larson’s Guild Mortgage team has a group of experienced loan officers who understand how to walk veterans through every step. For direct support, you can connect with Tyler Peters or Ellie Breitbach, who are part of Allison’s team and ready to answer your questions and guide you through the loan process.
FAQs About VA Loans
Can I use a VA Loan more than once?
Yes. You can restore your entitlement after selling a home, or use remaining entitlement for another property. Some veterans even hold two VA Loans at the same time under second-level entitlement.
What credit score do I need?
Many lenders accept scores as low as 540. Exact requirements vary, but VA guidelines are more flexible than conventional loans.
Do I have to pay mortgage insurance?
No. VA Loans don’t require monthly PMI, which lowers your overall housing costs.
Can VA Loans be used for refinancing?
Yes. You can use them to refinance an existing VA Loan through an Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) or refinance another loan type into a VA Loan.
Are spouses eligible?
Spouses of service members who died in active duty or from a service-related disability may qualify.
Final Thoughts
A VA Loan isn’t just paperwork or financing. It’s a tool that can set you up with stability, build equity, and give you the freedom to take that next step in life. If you’ve earned the benefit, don’t leave it on the table. With the right team guiding you, homeownership might be a lot closer than you think.
Joe Grunnet
Broker | DRG | Condo Expert
700 Washington Ave N, Ste 101