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What can I use my VA loan for?
Homebuyers often ask, “What can I use my VA loan for?” There are some guidelines to know about before planning to use one to buy a home. Generally, and with some restrictions, VA loans can be used to purchase existing single-family homes, townhomes and condos, multifamily properties, permanently affixed mobile and manufactured homes, new construction,…
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How many times can you use a VA loan?
You can get a VA loan multiple times if you’re eligible for one – it’s a lifelong benefit of serving in the military. However, there are some key things to know about the specifics of getting a second VA loan such as potential VA loan limits. We’ll discuss the details here and answer common questions…
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VA loan credit score requirements
You’ll want to understand Veterans Affairs (VA) loan credit score requirements if you’re considering getting a VA home loan. While VA loans were created to make homeownership more attainable, you’ll still have to apply for a VA loan with a VA lender like USAA Bank. The terms such as your interest rate and what loan…
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VA home loans: key questions to ask
When considering a VA home loan, it’s important to work with a knowledgeable lender who understands the unique requirements of VA loans. Factors like the lender’s experience, reputation, loan terms, and the support they offer throughout the process can make a big difference. In this guide, we’ll explore key considerations to help you evaluate VA…
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How to apply for a VA Home Loan
The process for applying for a VA home loan is similar to other mortgages. However, you’ll need to confirm your eligibility and take a few steps before you’re able to apply. We explain how to apply for a VA home loan and help lay out the process, so you know what to expect. Key Takeaways…
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VA Loans 101
According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), 528,340 VA home loans were guaranteed in 2025. If you’re curious about VA loans, this guide helps break down key things to know about them so you can better understand what they are, how they’re different, who is eligible for one, if one might be right…
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VA home loans: what to look for
As with any mortgage, when considering a VA home loan, you’ll want to consider various factors such as eligibility, fees, closing costs and interest rate. Additionally you want to know about the terms you qualify for, the length of your loan, and the reputation of your VA home loan lender. We’ll dive into the specifics…
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VA Appraisal and Home Inspections: what’s the difference?
Homebuyers going through the Veterans Affairs (VA) home loan process often ask about the difference between a VA home appraisal vs home inspection. A VA appraisal and a home inspection are quite different since the appraisal is required with a VA home loan and is an evaluation of the value of the home you’re looking…
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What is a VA jumbo loan?
A Veterans Affairs (VA) jumbo loan refers to any VA loan over the conforming loan limits for a specific area, which is $806,500 for a single-family home in most areas across the U.S. and up to $1,209,750 in some select areas for the year 2025. Technically, as of January 1, 2020, the VA no longer…
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Understanding BAH for VA Loans
When it comes to using a VA loan to buy a home, your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) can be leveraged to help qualify for and pay for the mortgage. Designed to help active-duty servicemembers cover housing costs, BAH can also play a crucial role in helping to determine your VA loan eligibility and budget.…
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Military Housing & VA Loans: Rent or Buy in the Military
Since you may PCS (receive a permanent change of station) every two to four years in the military, it’s important to consider many factors when deciding on whether to rent or buy a home. In this article, USAA Bank breaks down what you need to know about military housing and VA loans. Key Takeaways What…
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Can I Get a VA Home Loan if I’m Unemployed?
Qualifying for a VA home loan typically requires stable, verifiable income—even if that income does not come from a traditional job. While some borrowers without current employment may be eligible, approval depends on meeting specific financial and underwriting requirements. Lenders focus on income stability, creditworthiness, and debt‑to‑income (DTI) ratios to assess a borrower’s ability to…
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How to Get a VA Loan for Self Employed Veterans
As a self-employed veteran, you might wonder if you’re eligible for a VA home loan and what the process is like. The good news is that, yes, you may qualify for a VA loan, even if you’re self-employed. However, there are some specific requirements and documentation processes that you must follow as part of your…
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VA Loan Co-Borrower Requirements
VA loans offer powerful homebuying benefits for eligible Veterans, Service members, and surviving spouses, including no required down payment in many cases. What if you want to buy a home with someone else? Can a VA loan have a co-borrower? The answer is yes; VA loans do allow co-borrowers, also known as co-signers or joint…
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VA IRRRL: What is a VA Streamline Refinance?
In this guide, we explain the details of the VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) program, including its requirements, benefits, closing costs, and the application process. The VA IRRRL, also known as the VA Streamline Refinance, can be a great option for veterans, service members and surviving spouses looking to lower their mortgage interest…
