Are you a military veteran looking to buy, refinance a VA loan, or learn more about VA homeownership benefits? Mortgage Lenders for Veterans offer maximum services to ease financial challenges for military families and veterans, making home ownership accessible.
Read on as we explore top mortgage lenders for Veterans in the US and what they offer.Â
VA Loans are government-backed mortgage options exclusively for Veterans, service members, and surviving spouses.
These loans, provided by private lenders, offer competitive rates and terms, allowing veterans to purchase various property types.
VA home loans bring lifetime value, enabling individuals to reuse their benefits. Since 1944, the VA has guaranteed over 28 million loans, making homeownership more accessible and affordable for Veterans and service members.
VA loans work much like any other home loan but come with significant benefits meant to make homeownership easier and more affordable for Veterans and service members.
A VA loan is a government-supported mortgage for Veterans, service members, and surviving spouses. Private lenders, such as mortgage companies and banks (not the Department of Veterans Affairs), offer VA loans.
These loans have competitive interest rates and terms, allowing the purchase of various property types like single-family homes, condos, multi-unit properties, manufactured houses, or new constructions.
VA loans enhance the affordability of purchasing and refinancing homes for Veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses.
VA Loan Eligibility
To qualify for a VA home loan, Veterans, active duty service members, and some surviving spouses must meet specific time-in-service and character of service criteria.
This eligibility extends to those serving in the National Guard and Reserves, as well as certain other groups.
Typically, you may be eligible if you served 90 consecutive days on active duty during wartime, 181 consecutive days during peacetime, or 6 years in the Guard or Reserve (with at least 30 consecutive days under Title 32 orders).
Lenders can assist in obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the VA. This document confirms your eligibility, and veterans don’t need it before starting the home loan process.
It’s important to satisfy both VA and lender requirements, covering aspects like credit score and debt-to-income ratio.
Types of VA Loans
The VA loan benefit provides qualified Veterans with various home financing options.
– VA Purchase Loan: Veterans can use this loan to buy new or existing homes with a $0 down payment. It covers various property types like single-family homes, condos, manufactured homes, multi-unit properties, and new constructions.
– VA IRRRL: Also known as VA Streamlines, this refinance option is a simple, low-cost choice for Veteran homeowners with a current VA loan, potentially without credit underwriting, income verification, or an appraisal.
– VA Cash-Out Refinance: Qualified homeowners can refinance their mortgage and take cash from their home’s equity, available to Veterans with or without existing VA loans. Typically, up to 90% of the home’s value can be refinanced.
– VA Energy Efficient Mortgage: Veterans can borrow extra funds for energy-efficient improvements, applicable to home purchases or refinances. Up to an additional $6,000 can be financed for qualified improvements like energy-efficient windows, heat pumps, and solar heating and cooling systems. Appliances and non-permanent additions are not covered.
VA Loan Benefits
VA Loans have had a great impact over the years, granting millions of dollars in loans.
VA Loans come with numerous benefits, imagine getting to dive into homeownership with a zero down payment as a Veteran or service member.
Most loans demand a hefty down payment, but not the VA’s mortgage offer.
While others face the daunting task of gathering a down payment, Veterans get a pass, no matter the size of the home they desire.
Veterans enjoy the freedom of lower interest rates, a flexible credit approach, and limited closing costs.
Top Mortgage Lenders for Veterans in the US
- Veterans United
- Navy Federal Credit Union
- Freedom Mortgage
- LoanDepot -VA
- PNC – VA Mortgage
- Chase -VA Mortgage
- PenFed Credit Union
- Flagstar Bank
- Pennymac – VA Mortgage
- Wells Fargo
- Nbkc – VA Mortgage
- Citizens Bank – VA Mortgage
- Fairway Mortgage
- Axos Bank
- Movement Mortgage
- Guild Mortgage VA
- New American Funding VA Mortgage
- Rocket Mortgage VA mortgage
- USAA VA Mortgage
- Guaranteed Rate VA mortgage
Veterans United
Veterans United, the leading VA mortgage lender, is dedicated to assisting veterans and military families in achieving homeownership.
Over two decades, they have successfully closed more than 500,000 VA Loans, securing their position as the top VA lender for homebuyers nationwide.
However, their success goes beyond numbers, as they prioritize living out their values daily. Upholding principles such as being passionate, delivering results with integrity, and enhancing lives, Veterans United strives to make a meaningful impact.
Their commitment extends to maintaining a deep understanding of VA mortgages and providing friendly services across the nation.
The team of experts at Veterans United goes above and beyond, offering comprehensive guidance on everything from the basics of homebuying to effective strategies for selling your house quickly.
For more information, visit the Website: https://www.veteransunited.com/
Navy Federal Credit Union
Founded during the Great Depression by seven Navy Department employees striving to assist their colleagues in reaching financial goals, the Navy Federal Credit Union has evolved into a renowned institution.
Their vision was to establish a credit union offering affordable loans with manageable terms, fostering financial security by providing a secure place for savings with dividends.
As a leading VA lender, Navy Federal comprehends the distinctive needs of service members and their families. They are committed to aiding individuals in leveraging the exclusive benefits of VA loans that they have rightfully earned.
Throughout the home-buying journey, Navy Federal stands ready to provide not only low VA home loan rates but also valuable resources and membership benefits to support servicemembers and their families.
For more information, visit the Website: https://www.navyfederal.org/loans-cards/mortgage/mortgage-rates/va-loans.html
Freedom Mortgage
Established in 1990 and founded on family principles, Freedom Mortgage has been instrumental in assisting millions of Americans including veterans in purchasing and refinancing their homes.
Recognized as one of the leading mortgage lenders in the nation, their commitment extends beyond financial transactions.
Freedom Mortgage is dedicated to advancing homeownership, catering to a diverse clientele that includes first-time homebuyers, U.S. Veterans, and service members.
For more information, visit the Website: https://www.freedommortgage.com/va-loans
LoanDepot VA
LoanDepot VA, driven by technology and an unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service, offers seamless mortgage solutions.
With pride in their purpose, they have been at the forefront of aiding customers in realizing their home purchase and refinance objectives for over 12 years.
LoanDepot VA’s extensive experience, coupled with its tech-powered approach, reflects a dedication to facilitating successful home purchases and refinancing while providing unparalleled service to its customers.
For more information, visit the Website: https://www.loandepot.com/home-loans/va-loa
PNC VA Mortgage
PNC VA Mortgage stands as a reliable source for veterans and military personnel, offering a range of home loan options tailored to the unique needs of Active Military, Veterans, Reservists, or National Guard members.
Eligible individuals may benefit from a VA Home loan from PNC, featuring fixed and adjustable rate terms.
With key features, PNC is committed to supporting individuals at every stage of the home-buying process, from the initial steps to post-closing assistance.
Their support teams and local branches strive to ensure a comprehensive and accessible service, emphasizing dedication to being with customers every step of the way.
For more information, visit the Website: https://www.pnc.com/en/personal-banking/borrowing/home-lending/mortgage-loans/VA-Loan.html
Chase Va Mortgage
Chase VA Mortgage extends specialized home loan benefits to servicemembers, veterans, and members of the National Guard or Reserve, leveraging the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) support.
Backed by the VA, these loans offer competitive rates, providing lenders the flexibility to offer favorable finance terms.
VA loans from Chase offer unique features and exclusive offers and discounts. Chase also offers a range of other mortgage options to cater to diverse needs.
For more information, visit the Website: https://www.chase.com/personal/mortgage/va-loan
PenFed Credit Union
Founded in 1935, the Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) stands as the second-largest federal credit union in America, boasting a global reach.
PenFed Credit Union is dedicated to providing a comprehensive array of financial services, including market-leading certificates, checking, credit cards, personal loans, mortgages, auto loans, student loans, and more.
Their mission is to empower community members to attain financial well-being. PenFed Credit Union operates under federal insurance by the NCUA and adheres to Equal Housing Lender principles.
With a PenFed VA fixed-rate mortgage, individuals benefit from a stable interest rate that remains consistent throughout the loan’s entire term.
For more information, visit the Website: https://www.penfed.org/mortgage-center/va-mortgages
Flagstar Bank
Flagstar Bank, with its VA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage, offers affordable home loan options specifically designed for those who have served in the military.
Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, these VA mortgages feature fixed interest rates, a straightforward application process, favorable loan terms, and the notable advantage of no down payment requirements.
Flagstar Bank takes pride in assisting active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses in financing up to 100% of the home price, up to current conventional loan limits.
Their dedicated team is ready to help individuals secure the home they deserve with a 30-year fixed-rate VA loan.
For more information, visit the Website: https://www.flagstar.com/personal/home-loans/va-mortgage.html
Pennymac – VA Mortgage
Pennymac, a dedicated supporter of national heroes, stands out by offering VA loans and contributing significantly to veteran support.
As one of the largest direct lenders and servicers in the country, Pennymac Loan Services, LLC specializes in VA home loans, offering great rates on various types to suit the needs of servicemembers and veterans.
Beyond financial support, Pennymac recognizes the importance of its people in sustaining growth and leadership in the mortgage finance industry.
Actively collaborating with veterans groups such as DAV/RecruitMilitary, Pennymac goes beyond providing VA loans. Their involvement with these groups allows veterans to develop skills and broaden their experience in a customer-centric environment emphasizing high ethical standards, open communication, and excellence.
For more information, visit the Website:Â https://www.pennymac.com/va-home-loans
Wells Fargo – VA Mortgage
Wells Fargo is here to help you achieve your homeownership goals, just as you’ve committed to serving our country.
With a dedicated team of military mortgage specialists ready to assist clients from the straightforward online application to closing, Wells Fargo VA Mortgages offers exciting Key Features.
Clients Benefit from their experience as a leading mortgage lender with options tailored to your needs. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage operates as a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
For more information, visit the Website:Â https://www.wellsfargo.com/mortgage/loan-programs/va-loans/
Nbkc – VA mortgage
Nbkc recognizes the unique needs of those looking to purchase a new home or refinance an existing one, offering VA loans that prioritize both competitive rates and exceptional service.
Nbkc VA Mortgages offer key features such as; Access to low, competitive rates for the home of your dreams, and the benefit of fewer fees during the loan process.
Nbkc’a Expert loan officers provide friendly and personalized service, ensuring a smooth and tailored experience for each client.
For more information, visit the Website:Â https://www.nbkc.com/home-loans/purchase/va
Citizens Bank -VA Mortgage
Citizens Bank understands the diverse mortgage needs of its customers, whether it is buying a home or constructing one.
The bank is dedicated to providing comprehensive answers and valuable insights to guide individuals through the entire mortgage process, from the initial application to the closing stage.
A team of dedicated mortgage experts at Citizens is devoted to ensuring a smooth and informed mortgage experience.
At Citizens, the commitment extends beyond individual success; the bank prioritizes customers, colleagues, communities, and shareholders, recognizing that their success contributes to the overall success of the institution.
For more information, visit the Website:Â https://www.citizensbank.com/loans/home-mortgage.aspx
Fairway – VA Mortgage
Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, and Carrollton, Texas, is committed to making the mortgage experience exceptional.
Fairway mortgage loan officers are dedicated to finding great rates and loan options with some of the fastest turn times in the industry, Proudly helping service members and veterans achieve the American dream of homeownership.
They offer highly personalized service and guide clients through every step of the loan process, from application to closing and beyond.
–For more information, visit the Website:Â https://www.fairwayindependentmc.com/mortgage-loan-products/va-mortgage-loan
Axos Bank – VA Mortgage
Axos Bank, a financial institution, provides VA Mortgage Loans with competitive interest rates, favorable loan terms, and the advantage of no required down payment.
Tailored to help eligible veterans and active-duty service members become homeowners, these VA loan programs also offer refinancing options for those with existing mortgages.
Axos Bank’s VA Loans are designed to provide unique benefits for eligible individuals in pursuit of homeownership.
For more information, visit the Website:Â https://www.axosbank.com/Personal/Mortgages/Mortgage-Options/VA-Loans
Movement VA Mortgage
Movement, a mortgage provider, extends VA Loans specifically designed for military personnel and veterans.
Movement VA Mortgages loan offers 100% financing of reasonable property and less restrictive qualifying terms compared to conventional programs.
Eligible individuals with a service-connected disability can receive assistance through adapted housing grants for purchasing, building, or modifying a home to support their disability.
For more information, visit the Website:Â https://movement.com/loans/va-loans
Other Top mortgage lenders for veterans in the US
| Guild Mortgage VAÂ | https://www.guildmortgage.com/mortgage-loans/va-loan/ |
| New American Funding VA Mortgage | https://www.newamericanfunding.com/loan-types/va-loan/ |
| Rocket Mortgage VA mortgage | https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/va-loans |
| USAA – VA Mortgage | https://www.usaa.com/inet/wc/bank-real-estate-va-loan |
| Guaranteed Rate VA mortgage | https://www.rate.com/va-loans |
Below are some Frequently Asked Questions for the Best Mortgage Lenders for Veterans.
You can also check through The US Department of Veterans Affairs page to find out more answers to your numerous inquiries.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a VA-guaranteed loan?
Apply with a VA-approved mortgage lender. You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility from the VA to show your eligibility.
How do I get a Certificate of Eligibility?
Fill out VA Form 26-1880 and send it with proof of military service to the Atlanta Eligibility Center.
Can my lender get my Certificate of Eligibility for me?
Yes, through Web LGY, an online system that many lenders use for quick eligibility verification.
How can I obtain proof of military service?
Use Standard Form 180 to request military service proof. Send it to the appropriate military records custodian.
Can I get another VA loan if I’ve had one before?
Yes, if you’ve paid off the previous loan and property or if you’ve paid it off but still own the property. Restore eligibility by submitting VA Form 26-1880 to the Atlanta Eligibility Center. Include proof of loan payoff and property disposal if applicable.
Conclusion
VA home loans aim to ease financial challenges for military families and veterans, making home ownership accessible.
Sometimes Veterans with full entitlement don’t need a down payment, while those with partial entitlement may require one.
Refinancing is simplified with a VA interest rate reduction refinance loan (VA IRRRL), often not requiring an appraisal or extensive paperwork.
If you are a military veteran feel free to learn more about VA homeownership benefits read through this comprehensive list above. Check out the Mortgage Lenders in Australia And Their Websites.
