You’ve done your time. You’ve worn the uniform. Maybe you’ve deployed. Maybe you’ve PCS’d more times than you can count. You’ve earned more than just thank-you’s.
So now, when it comes time to buy a home—or refinance the one you’ve got—the last thing you should do is get saddled with the wrong loan.
Enter: VA loans.
A benefit built just for you. Powerful. Flexible. Surprisingly misunderstood.
Let’s clear it up.
What Exactly Is a VA Loan?
Spoiler: The VA isn’t writing checks.
VA loans are mortgages backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA doesn’t lend the money—they guarantee part of it. Which makes lenders feel warm and fuzzy inside.
That’s good news for you.
It means:
- No down payment (yes, really)
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Competitive rates
- Flexible credit guidelines
- Lower out-of-pocket costs at closing
In other words, a VA loan from Union Home Mortgage is like showing up to the mortgage table with a VIP badge.
Who Qualifies? (Hint: You Might)
If you’re wondering whether you’re eligible, you probably are.
VA loans are available to:
- Veterans with qualifying service
- Active-duty service members
- National Guard or Reserve members (after a certain length of service)
- Eligible surviving spouses
You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), but don’t worry—most lenders can pull that for you. No need to dig through a file cabinet full of DD-214s unless you really want to.
Buying a Home With a VA Loan: Here’s the Deal
Let’s talk about the real magic trick: zero down payment.
That’s not a typo. Most loans require 3–20% down. VA loans? $0.
This can get you into a home faster, especially in markets where saving 20% down feels like trying to bench press a tank.
Bonus: There’s no PMI, which can save you hundreds a month—another perk of your service.
VA loans also allow sellers to cover your closing costs. So yeah, you’re walking into this thing with a serious advantage.
Already Own a Home? You’re Not Done Yet
You’ve got two powerful refinancing options if you’re already a homeowner:
1. VA IRRRL (aka the Streamline Refi)
Clunky name. Smooth process.
The Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan is made for folks who already have a VA loan and want a lower rate or a smaller payment—without a ton of paperwork.
You won’t need:
- A new appraisal
- Income verification
- Or even much time—it’s quick
It’s like swapping your old loan for a better one while barely lifting a finger.
2. VA Cash-Out Refinance
Need equity out of your home? This is your move.
It lets you refinance your current mortgage (even if it’s not VA) into a VA loan, and pull out cash in the process.
Home upgrades, debt consolidation, emergency expenses—it’s your equity, your call.
Heads up: This one does require a new appraisal and income checks. But it’s still far more flexible than most conventional options.
Choose a Lender Who Speaks VA Fluently
Not all lenders are created equal. Some “do VA loans.” Others live them.
And trust me—you want a team that knows the ins and outs, not one that Googles the guidelines while you’re on hold.
That’s why so many veterans turn to Union Home Mortgage—a team that doesn’t just know VA loans, but actually knows how to make them work for real people. Like you. With real timelines. Real questions. Real life.
Final Word: You Earned This
Look, VA loans aren’t a favor—they’re a benefit. A serious one.
You don’t need to settle for second-best financing. You don’t need to fight uphill with down payments or sky-high insurance premiums.
Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing for a better rate, or cashing out equity to rebuild your life after service, VA loans put you in a position of strength. And after all you’ve done? That’s exactly where you should be.
