Government Loans
VA Occupancy Requirements: When You Must Move In
VA purchase and cash-out loans are generally for a primary residence, not a vacation home or a property purchased solely…
Government Loans
Government-backed mortgages include FHA, VA, and USDA programs. Each option serves different borrowers and has its own eligibility, property, appraisal, and underwriting requirements.
Government-Backed Options
Choose a Loan Program
FHA Loans
Explore FHA eligibility, mortgage insurance, appraisals, property standards, and underwriting.
VA Loans
Understand VA eligibility, entitlement, funding fees, appraisals, and the loan process.
USDA Loans
Learn about USDA property eligibility, household income limits, zero-down financing, and approval.
Government Loan Library
Latest Government Loan Guides
Government Loans
VA Loan Assumptions Explained for Buyers and Sellers
A VA-backed mortgage may be assumable, but the transfer must be approved. The seller’s liability and entitlement do not disappear…
Government Loans
VA IRRRL Explained: When a Streamline Refinance Makes Sense
An IRRRL refinances an existing VA-backed loan to improve rate or payment stability. “Streamline” does not mean free, instant, or…
Government Loans
VA Cash-Out Refinance: Requirements, Equity, and Risks
A VA cash-out refinance can replace a VA or non-VA mortgage and may allow equity withdrawal, but the new loan…
Government Loans
VA Loans for Surviving Spouses: Eligibility and COE Basics
Certain surviving spouses can qualify for VA home loan eligibility, but the status must be established through VA before a…
Government Loans
VA vs. FHA vs. Conventional Loans: How to Compare the Real Costs
The best mortgage is not determined by one advertised rate. Eligibility, insurance, cash, property, credit, and time in the home…
Government Loans
USDA Guaranteed Loan Requirements Explained in Plain English
A USDA Guaranteed Loan can finance an eligible primary residence with no required down payment, but both the household and…
Government Loans
USDA Guaranteed vs. Direct Loans: What Is the Difference?
Both programs support rural homeownership, but they serve different borrowers and use very different application and underwriting systems.
Government Loans
USDA Property Eligibility Map: How to Check an Address Correctly
USDA property eligibility is an address-level decision. A rural appearance, local label, or zip code is not enough.
Government Loans
USDA Income Limits and Household Income Explained
USDA uses one income calculation to decide whether the household is eligible and another to decide whether the borrowers can…