The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has helped countless veterans finance their home ownership goals. While you have the choice of a conventional loan offered by other mortgage lenders, there are some significant benefits to VA loans. Here are some of the most important advantages to consider:
No Down Payment
The most famous benefit of VA loans is the lack of down payments. Homebuyers taking out a conventional loan typically need to pay around 3% of the home's purchase price up front as part of their loan terms. Even a small percentage can mean tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket. A VA loan will help you save this money instead of potentially draining your hard-earned savings.
No Private Mortgage Insurance
Private mortgage insurance is required by lenders to protect them against the chance of you defaulting on your loan. Not only do these insurance policies have hefty upfront charges, the ongoing annual cost can last the entire life of your loan. Luckily, with VA loans, there is no requirement for private mortgage insurance, saving you money and time.
Easier Financial Requirements
Mortgage lenders conduct a careful analysis of your financial profile when you apply for a loan. For most lenders, credit score requirements can be especially strict. Even if you qualify for a loan, a lower credit score might mean higher interest rates or private mortgage insurance premiums. VA loans don't have a credit score requirement, so no matter what state your credit is in, you can still be approved for a loan.
The same goes for debt-to income ratios. While VA lenders still consider DTI ratios in the approval process, the requirements are much more flexible and forgiving. Even with a high debt-to-income ratio, you can be approved for a VA home loan with other financial factors like credit score working in your favor.
These are only a few of the major benefits offered by VA home loans. Remember these factors if you're deciding between a VA or conventional loan so you can make the best decision for your situation.
About the Author
Pablo Torres
Pablo Torres is a qualified Real Estate Agent with over 10 years experience in real estate sales, due diligence and contract negotiations. Knowledgeable of South Florida neighborhoods. Currently, Pablo focuses his skills on all markets in the Miami metropolitan area.
He has the ability to understand sellers, buyers and renters needs with excellent communication. Fluent in English and Spanish with working knowledge of Portuguese. Pablo has impeccable reputation and a passion for real estate.
He graduated with a degree in International Business from Florida International University (1998) and a masters in business administration from Nova Southeastern University (2003). He had embarked on a career in commercial banking before being driven to switch to one of his passions-real estate.
Dedication, perseverance and punctuality allowed Pablo to sell different types of properties. His expertise with South Florida's cultural diversity has allowed him to sell real estate to both buyers and sellers.
Part of what makes Pablo so successful is his dedication to exceptional customer service and his devotion to their needs, whether they are buying or selling properties. Pablo has many repeat customers who cite his willingness to work long hours to resolve the toughest issues, as a reason why they stick with him. Torres integrity, attention to detail and careful handling of a transaction, exceeds their expectations. Sellers know that Pablo's extensive and personalized marketing strategies, means that their listing is seen by most buyers.
As a real estate professional, Pablo has the tools to represent your interests in virtually any transaction. Pablo's ability to interview, reason and figure out the smallest details makes every successful transaction a seamless process. Pablo is the right real estate professional to hire.
