Things to Consider When Applying for a Veteran Affairs Loan

 

Getting a VA loan requires some considerations. Whether you're eligible for one depends on your service and income, as does the underwriting process. But there are other things you should know, too. These include the VA funding fee and the escape clause. If you're disabled and want to qualify for a loan through the VA, here are some things to consider. Once you understand the requirements, applying for a VA loan should be a breeze.

VA loan eligibility

You must meet specific requirements to secure the financing when applying for a VA loan. These requirements vary from lender to lender, and the home must meet Minimum Property Requirements, which require the property to be safe, structurally sound, and sanitary. The requirements vary depending on the risk level of a particular area, like for the California VA loans. Once you've determined your income level and the property's minimum property requirements, you can begin looking at homes. Once you've narrowed down your choices, it's time to work with a VA-approved lender to close the deal.

The most obvious benefit of applying for a VA loan is the lack of mortgage insurance and down payment. The downside is that the VA funding fee is very high, but this fee is usually waived for veterans who qualify for the program. Likewise, the VA funding fee depends on the amount of the down payment and whether you're using the loan for the first time. However, you can save money by not worrying about paying PMI if you have an adequate down payment.

VA loan underwriting process

A few key steps exist before applying for a VA loan. The first step is to get a prequalification letter, which gives you a ballpark price range for the home you are interested in purchasing. While a prequalification letter does not guarantee to finance, it does save you time and money in the long run. Then you can go out and hunt for a home.

While it may seem simple, you should remember that the underwriting process is the longest part of the entire process. According to ICE Mortgage Technology, 15% of VA loan applications are denied. If you're denied, however, don't lose hope. If your application was approved in the first place, you may try manual underwriting or seek a co-borrower with better credit and a lower debt-to-income ratio. After a VA loan underwriting process is complete, you should receive notification that your application has been cleared to close.

VA funding fee

If you're interested in buying a home through the Veterans Administration, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you apply. One of these is whether you'll qualify for a loan. The VA doesn't have a minimum income requirement, but it will consider your residual income and debt-to-income ratio, which gives lenders a comprehensive picture of your financial situation. However, even though you may be eligible, it's essential to know whether you'll qualify.

The VA recommends that you prequalify for a VA loan before making an offer on a home. Getting prequalified means visiting a VA-approved lender or filling out an online application. This step is different from getting preapproved, as preapproval determines how much money you'll qualify for. Also, the VA has certain expectations for your income. A preapproval process may be necessary if your income is below certain levels.

VA escape clause

When applying for a VA loan, check for a VA escape clause. This clause protects the borrower against the risk of being forced to repay the loan if circumstances change. For example, if the property's appraised value falls below the selling price, the VA will not guarantee the loan. The buyer can always opt to back out even if the appraised value exceeds the selling price.

The VA escape clause is a mandatory part of a VA-backed loan. The lender must include it in the loan agreement before closing the transaction. Without it, Veteran Affairs cannot guarantee the loan. The escape clause allows the buyer to walk away from the deal if the home's appraised value falls below the contract price. In such situations, the VA will refund the earnest money. The VA loan process is complicated, and not all lenders specialize. But lenders that do offer these loans should be trusted, as the VA handbook limits their fees at 1% of the loan amount.

Image by Susan Sewert from Pixabay