“I served in the military.”
Can veterans buy a home with little or nothing down?
Often, yes. A VA home loan may let eligible veterans and service members buy with little or nothing down and no monthly mortgage insurance. You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility. A loan officer can request it for you.
Quick answers
Thought you needed a big down payment?
With a VA loan, you may not.
Used a VA loan before?
You may be able to use the benefit again.
Does it fit you?
3 quick questions. No signup. No credit pull.
What you'll need
- Your DD-214 or a statement of service
- Pay stubs or other proof of income
- A photo ID
How does it go, start to finish?
Who can use a VA loan?
Veterans, active-duty service members, and some National Guard and Reserve members who meet the service rules. Some surviving spouses can too.
Your Certificate of Eligibility shows the lender you qualify. Your loan officer can request it for you.
What does a VA loan cost?
VA loans have a one-time funding fee that you can add to the loan. Veterans who get VA disability compensation usually don’t pay it.
VA loans don’t have monthly mortgage insurance. The loan still has its own rate and fees, and your loan officer shows you each one, with the APR, before you decide.
Can the seller pay my closing costs?
Often, yes. VA rules let the seller pay some of your costs. Your agent can ask for it in the offer, and your loan officer tells you the limit.
What does the VA appraisal check?
The home’s value and whether it’s safe and sound to live in. If the VA appraiser finds a roof leak or a broken heater, for example, it may need fixing before closing.
Is a VA loan the same as CalVet?
No. A VA loan is a federal benefit you use through a lender. CalVet Home Loans is a separate California program with its own rules. Your loan officer can compare the two with you.
Questions people ask
What is a Certificate of Eligibility?
It shows the lender you qualify for the VA benefit. Your loan officer can request it for you.
Is there a VA loan limit in California?
Not if you have your full VA entitlement. The VA dropped its loan limit for those borrowers in 2020. If you still have a VA loan on another home, your county’s limit can still matter.
Can I use my VA benefit again?
Often, yes. Many veterans use it more than once. Your Certificate of Eligibility shows what’s left.
Can I use a VA loan for a rental?
No. A VA loan is for a home you’ll live in. You can buy a home with up to four units and live in one of them.
Can I buy a condo with a VA loan?
Often, yes, if the VA has approved the condo project. Have your loan officer check before you make an offer.
Do I need a certain credit score?
The VA doesn’t set a minimum score, but lenders do. Your loan officer tells you what your loan needs.
Does Home First Financial offer VA loans in California?
Yes. Home First Financial arranges VA purchase loans for eligible veterans and service members across California. Subject to VA rules and qualification.
Talk to a loan officer
Call or email a licensed loan officer.
The application takes about 15 minutes, on the secure site we use. Do what you can, and your loan officer calls to fill in the rest.
Prefer to meet in person? Our main office is in Tustin, by appointment.
The fine print
For eligible veterans and service members. A VA funding fee may apply. Subject to VA rules and qualification. Not a commitment to lend.
Also called: a VA purchase loan.
Home First Financial is not affiliated with HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, CalHFA or any government agency.
Neutral sources: