VA Loans
VA loans are one of the most powerful benefits available to those who have served. They are guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and offered through private lenders.
In this guide
Core benefits
For eligible borrowers, VA loans can offer:
- 0% down payment on most purchases.
- No monthly mortgage insurance (a major monthly savings).
- Competitive interest rates and limits on certain closing costs.
- No prepayment penalty.
The VA funding fee
Most VA loans include a one-time funding fee that helps sustain the program. The percentage varies by down payment and whether it's your first use. Some veterans — for example, those receiving compensation for a service-connected disability — may be exempt.
Eligibility
Eligibility is based on length and character of service. You'll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which a lender can often help you obtain. Learn more directly from the VA.
Related Guides
Get a Free Booklet
Pick a topic — each opens a quick page where your PDF downloads free.
- VA Loan Booklet Zero-down benefits, the funding fee, and eligibility — explained.
- FHA Loan Booklet 3.5% down, credit flexibility, and how mortgage insurance works.
- Conventional Loan Booklet Low-down options, PMI, and how to get the best pricing.
- Refinancing Booklet Rate-and-term vs. cash-out, and finding your break-even point.
- First-Time Buyer Booklet A step-by-step roadmap from budgeting to closing day.
- Jumbo Loan Booklet High-balance loans: requirements, rates, and when they make sense.
- DSCR Investor Loan Booklet Qualify on rental income, not personal W-2s — built for investors.
- Reverse Mortgage Booklet How HECMs work, eligibility, and what homeowners 62+ should know.
- HELOC & Home Equity Booklet Compare HELOCs and home equity loans: structure, rates, and use cases.
100% free · instant PDF download · no obligation.