The VA provides a 100% guarantee to lenders providing
financing to qualified veterans. The veteran must receive a
Certificate of Eligibility from the VA to be considered for
program underwriting. The request for the "C of E" can be
initiated by the lender and is often the first step in the
loan process. VA benefits are usually conferred on vets that
have served at least 2 years active duty or 6 years active
Reserves (see your lender for specific duty dates).
The benefits of VA financing are a 0% down payment
requirement and no monthly mortgage insurance. In lieu of
monthly mortgage insurance the veteran pays a financed 2.2%
Guaranty Fee (3.3% for subsequent use) to VA. This Guarantee
Fee is waived if the veteran has sustained a service related
disability. VA prescribes closing costs that can be charged
to the vet and are typically lower than closing costs
associated with other programs. VA loan programs consist of
a 30 or 15 year term at a fixed interest rate.