Common VA Mortgage Loan Myths & Misconceptions

The US Department of Veteran's Affairs (VA) Loan was created in 1944 through the original Serviceman's Readjustment Act, also known as the GI Bill. Eligible veterans may apply for a VA loan for up to the conforming loan limit with no down payment; though in federally designated "high cost" areas, the limit may be higher.

A VA mortgage is guaranteed by the VA but must be issued by a qualified lender. All lenders must follow the same approval guidelines in order to have the loan guaranteed by the VA.

There are many myths and misconceptions that surround the VA mortgage loan. Below will help your veteran clients determine fact from fiction.

Myth #1: VA loans take forever to close.

Fact: There truly isn't much of a difference in the time it takes for a VA loan to close compared to a conventional loan. The process is generally dependent on the lender which is why it's important to find a qualified mortgage banker with VA loan experience.

Myth #2: You need great credit to get one.

Fact: You don't even need "good" credit.

VA loans can be more forgiving than conventional loans when it comes to credit history. Actually, the VA has no credit limit though VA lenders generally look for a 620 FICO score or higher.

Myth #3: The VA appraisal is a nightmare - or takes a long time and calls for repairs.

Fact: VA appraisals are no more difficult than other loan appraisals unless the home is in poor condition. The VA uses Minimum Property Requirement (MPR) guidelines to make sure the home is in good condition, safe, sanitary, and structurally sound. Some of these requirements include:

• Electrical systems and plumbing must be safe and in good condition
• Heating must be acceptable
• Roofing must be acceptable
• No leaks, excessive dampness, defective construction or decay
• No termites, destructive insects, fungus growth or dry rot

Myth #4: Veterans are "guaranteed" a VA loan.

Fact: No one is guaranteed a loan. The VA guarantees the loan to the lender in case of default. The lender is the one who actually loans the money. It does not mean that you are guaranteed a loan; you still have to qualify for it based on credit and income standards set by both the VA and the lender.

Myth #5: I can't get a VA loan if I have a foreclosure/bankruptcy in my past.

Fact: The bounce-back time to obtain a VA loan after a foreclosure or bankruptcy is shorter than a conventional loan. VA lenders will want your client to wait two years before applying after a foreclosure, short sale or Chapter 7/13 bankruptcy.

If you have a veteran client interested in a VA mortgage or have questions about being eligible for this loan, contact PRM today!