Understanding A Veteran Home Loan

By Dale Peck


A lending arrangement referred to as a veteran home loan was created to ensure that veterans have certain alternatives. Most arrangements of this kind are utilized to buy existing dwellings, but constructing a new home or refinancing an existing mortgage may also be an option under this type of arrangement. In some instances, a veteran's loan can be applied for to increase the home's energy efficiency before or after its purchase.

The Department of Veterans Affairs, also simply referred to as the VA, has helped over 15,000,000 veterans to buy a primary residence. The VA does not loan the individual the funds itself, but it guarantees the terms of the loan, which in turn encourages the lending institution to relax interest rates and fees for those who have served in any military branch.

Limitations associated with the program focus on the status of the person's active-duty, and the total amount being borrowed. Experts report that the number of loans guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs has substantially helped the mortgage industry. They also claim that arrangements of this type are beneficial for both lending institutions and consumers.

The aforementioned programs were designed to compensate individuals for serving in the military, but no guarantee is offered concerning rates or terms. For instance, a buyer who has already been qualified due to a positive credit score may be able to get the same or similar rates without help from the VA. However, veterans with no assets or little collateral will find such arrangements offer appealing terms and conditions. In certain instances, the only way such individuals can purchase their own homes are through VA loans.

The buyer's military service is the primary requirement necessary to qualify for such an arrangement. Other qualifications include the time and nature of his or her service. To qualify, one must also have served a minimum of 180 continuous days when the country was at peace, or participated in active duty for 90 days during wartime. In the majority of instances, if an individual was discharged dishonorably from any service branch, such loans will not be option.

To acquire VA loans, a person must first obtain a certificate of eligibility. The latter is provided after one applies to the Department of Veterans Affairs. After this document has been acquired, the individual can enter into a purchase agreement with a real estate agent or private seller. The VA must appraise the dwelling, even though the primary lender will also usually complete an appraisal as well.

For many years, the US Department of Veterans Affairs has backed loans for those who have served in any branch of the military. In 2008, on October 10th, the Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act was signed by then-president George W. Bush. This act updated the terms and conditions of the program in order to offset repercussions felt by veterans from the housing market collapse that took place that year.

Individuals who think they may be eligible for a veteran home loan should explore all the possibilities. This is particularly true if owning a private residence would be financially out of reach otherwise. To receive assistance with the process, those considering applying for such an arrangement may wish to speak to a real estate agent or financial planner.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment