Government Loans
Buying a Two-to-Four-Unit Property With a VA Loan
An eligible borrower may use a VA purchase loan for a residential property with up to four units, but the…
Homeowner Learning Center
Independent, plain-English guidance on mortgage lending, underwriting, appraisals, and the home-financing process.
Government Loans
Buying a Manufactured Home With VA? The Foundation Could Decide the Deal
VA financing can be used for eligible manufactured housing, but the home, land, title, foundation, and lender program must fit…
Government Loans
Found a Condo You Love? Make Sure VA Will Approve the Project Before You Buy
For a VA condo loan, the borrower and unit must qualify, but the condominium project also has to be acceptable…
Government Loans
Low VA Appraisal: Escape Clause, Reconsideration of Value, and Buyer Options
A VA loan is generally based on the lower of the purchase price or VA’s reasonable value. A low appraisal…
Government Loans
VA Minimum Property Requirements Explained Simply
VA minimum property requirements focus on basic safety, sanitation, structural soundness, and marketability. They are not a promise that the…
Government Loans
The VA Appraisal Passed. Does That Mean the House Is Safe to Buy?
The VA appraisal protects the lending decision. A home inspection helps the buyer understand the house. Those goals overlap, but…
Government Loans
Can the Seller Pay Your VA Closing Costs? You May Have More Help Than You Think
A no-down-payment VA loan can still require cash. Closing costs, prepaid items, discount points, and value shortages must be planned…
Government Loans
Had a Bankruptcy, Foreclosure, or Late Payments? VA May Still Be an Option
VA credit underwriting focuses on willingness and ability to repay, but lenders still investigate patterns, recent events, and unresolved obligations.
Government Loans
Your DTI Is Over 41%. Does That Mean Your VA Loan Is Dead?
VA does not treat one ratio as the entire approval decision. Debt-to-income, residual income, credit, and the full risk picture…
Government Loans
Your DTI Looks Fine. So Why Is VA Still Checking How Much Money You Have Left?
Residual income estimates what remains for ordinary living expenses after major monthly obligations are paid.