Military Veteran Information and Resources
I’ve worn the uniform, I’ve navigated the deployments, and I’ve managed the moves—both across the country and across the globe. After retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel following my service in the Army and Air Force JAG Corps, I now focus time and efforts to helping veterans and others find their perfect home. I speak the language of the military and understand the nuances of VA financing. Let’s work together to secure your piece of the American dream.
The Mission to Homeownership: Navigating Your VA Loan Benefit
For those who have served, the VA home loan is one of the most powerful financial tools available. However, for many veterans, the process can seem like a complex maneuver through red tape. As a retired Lt Col and former JAG officer, I’ve spent my career navigating complicated regulations to protect the interests of service members. I’m here to simplify that mission for you.
Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how the VA home loan process works:
1. Secure Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
The first step in any VA loan mission is confirming your eligibility. The COE is a formal document from the VA that tells lenders you have earned this benefit based on your length and type of service. Whether you served in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, or National Guard, this document often can be pulled in minutes.
2. Getting "Mission Ready" with Pre-Approval
While the VA guarantees the loan, private lenders actually provide the funds. Most lenders look for a credit score around 620, though the VA itself does not set a minimum. Beyond credit, the VA focuses on Residual Income—ensuring that after you pay your mortgage and debts, you still have enough cash left over for life’s necessities like groceries and gas. Getting pre-approved gives you the "green light" to start shopping with confidence.
3. Finding a VA-Eligible Home
Your VA benefit is intended for a primary residence—the place you intend to call home. During the search, we look for properties that meet Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). The VA wants to ensure the home is Safe, Sound, and Sanitary. This means a solid roof, functional heating, and no major structural or safety hazards.
4. The VA Appraisal
Once we’re under contract, the lender orders a VA appraisal. This is different from a standard inspection; the appraiser’s job is to ensure the home’s value matches the purchase price and that it meets the MPRs mentioned above. If the appraisal comes back low, we have specialized tools like a Reconsideration of Value (ROV) to advocate for the deal.
5. Closing the Deal
This is where the VA loan truly shines. In 2026, the key benefits remain:
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$0 Down Payment: You can finance 100% of the home’s value.
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No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Unlike conventional loans, you don’t have to pay monthly insurance fees.
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The Funding Fee: Most veterans pay a one-time "Funding Fee" (typically 2.15% for first-time use), which can be rolled into the loan. Importantly, veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 10% or higher are usually exempt from this fee.