How Do I Get Started?

1. First, determine if you are eligible for a VA loan. This will help you determine what price house you can afford, how much money you will need to put down as a downpayment, etc. To receive a Certificate of Eligibility, you must first complete Form 26-1880 and mail it, along with a copy of your DD 214 discharge papers, to the Eligibility center for your area.



2. Next, find the home of your dreams.



3. Then, find a lender. While the VA cannot recommend a specific lender, they do suggest you start with the bank or credit union you currently do business with. Another suggestion is to ask friends or relatives for a recommendation. For a partial list of lenders that do business in your location, visit the VA E-Lenders nationwide directory.



4. Get it appraised by the VA. Typically, the lender will order a VA appraisal



5. Lastly, close on the home.

Get started with the VA Loan Process