CREDIT. Encompassing FICO scores, income, debt and employment, credit plays a huge role in the VA loan process. Fortunately for veterans and active-duty service members, VA loans feature relaxed credit requirements when compared to conventional loan programs. Wondering what lenders will expect from a VA loan applicant? Take a look at these four questions that will definitely pop up during the credit evaluation.… Full Article
Modern homebuyers can face a mountain of restrictions when applying for a mortgage. Tougher credit standards and higher income requirements have pushed many prospective buyers out of the market altogether. Enter the VA home loan. Throughout the housing market meltdown, the VA loan program has remained steadfast in its mission: providing accessible and cost-effective loans to military members. Veterans and… Full Article
Let’s be honest: The VA appraisal has a reputation of being problematic. But it doesn't have to be. With a little knowledge and a watchful eye, you can help guide your buyers to properties that will easily meet the VA's Minimum Property Requirements. Boost your VA appraisal know-how with a review of four big VA appraisal pitfalls to avoid: 1. The leaky basement Water can cause an unbelievable amount of dam… Full Article
One of the most dreaded responses a loan officer or real estate agent can receive from an appraiser is that the home requires repair to pass the VA’s minimum property requirements (MPRs). While the purpose of MPRs is to protect the buyer and ensure the home is safe, structurally sound and sanitary, there’s no doubt that this news can be frustrating. The best way to prepare your clients is to be a VA-savvy age… Full Article
The VA pays special attention to private water sources and you should, too. They aren't regulated by the federal government so the VA created specific criteria these water sources must meet in order to be deemed safe. Wells are one of the most common private water sources, but depending on your location you may also encounter springs, cisterns or rainwater catchment systems in use. Wells If your buyer goes… Full Article
Military buyers wait on pins and needles for the results of the VA appraisal. A low appraisal value sends a stinging message to would-be homebuyers: This deal might not fly. Don’t toss that transaction out the window just yet. A fighting chance remains for those buyers who can show that a VA appraisal value is erroneously lower than the asking price. Let’s talk about the VA’s Reconsideration of Value. … Full Article
What military buyer wouldn’t want to shave more than a third off the price of a home? Distressed properties sold at an almost 37 percent discount in March 2017, according to RealtyTrac. Fortunately for cash-conscious military buyers, VA loans can be used to purchase foreclosure or short sale properties if the property meets the VA home loan guidelines set by the Department of Veterans Affairs. But as expe… Full Article
VA home loans are low-cost, flexible and borrower-friendly. And they’re soaring in popularity. It's no wonder that eager sellers want to tap into the VA buyer market. What’s the first step toward that goal? Ensuring that properties meet VA appraisal guidelines. In truth, whether or not homes meet guidelines is often a hard determination to make. VA appraisal guidelines leave much to the individual a… Full Article
A required step along the path to VA loan approval, the VA appraisal takes place shortly after contract acceptance. The appraisal helps lenders calculate a home’s reasonable market value and ensures the property measures up to the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). It’s a tall order for a VA appraiser. Compiling these detailed reports takes careful analysis, supporting documentation, and most importa… Full Article
Apartments, condos, manufactured homes, co-ops, single-family homes — modern real estate has come a long way since the days of the one-room shack. The current market offers a wide variety of homes to satisfy any buyer’s desires. But VA loan buyers will need to focus on certain types of properties to win final loan approval. Knowing how VA loans work is the first step toward getting the home of your drea… Full Article