The VA Home Loan Advantage: What Every Veteran Should Know Right Now

If you’ve served in the U.S. military—or if your spouse has—you have access to one of the most powerful homebuying benefits available: the VA home loan.

This unique program gives qualified Veterans and active-duty service members the opportunity to buy a home with no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and often better loan terms than traditional mortgages.

But here’s the surprising part: Nearly 70% of Veterans don’t even know they qualify for this benefit, according to Veterans United. That means millions are missing out on one of the easiest paths to affordable homeownership.

Let’s change that by breaking down what you need to know about VA home loans—and why now might be the perfect time to use yours.

Why VA Home Loans Are a Game-Changer

For almost 80 years, the VA home loan program has helped millions of Veterans and active-duty service members achieve homeownership.

Here’s what makes it such a smart option, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs:

• $0 Down Payment: Buy a home without spending years saving up.

• Lower Upfront Costs: The VA limits which closing costs you can be charged, helping you keep more cash in your pocket.

• No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Unlike most other loans, VA loans don’t require PMI, which means lower monthly payments.

These benefits make VA home loans one of the most powerful tools for building long-term financial stability and wealth through real estate.

Are VA Loans Still Available During the Government Shutdown?

Some Veterans have recently been uncertain about whether VA loans are still available due to the government shutdown. The good news: they are.

While there may be minor processing delays, Veterans United confirms that lenders are still able to order appraisals, issue Certificates of Eligibility, and submit VA funding fees.

In other words—you can still buy or refinance your home using your VA loan benefits right now. The system is still running; it just may move a little slower than usual.

Why Working with the Right Agent and Lender Matters

Even with such great benefits, the VA loan process can feel complex if you’re navigating it alone. That’s why partnering with a VA-savvy real estate agent and lender is key.

As VA News explains:

“Choosing a military-friendly broker or agent who understands the VA home loan application process can make all the difference in the homebuying experience.”

An experienced agent (like us!) can guide you through everything—from determining eligibility to ensuring your offer stands out in a competitive market—while a knowledgeable lender will make the financing process smooth and stress-free.

Bottom Line: You’ve Earned This Advantage—Let’s Put It to Work

If you’re a Veteran, reservist, or active-duty service member, your VA home loan benefit is one of the most valuable rewards for your service. It gives you the freedom to buy a home with no down payment, limited closing costs, and no PMI—a combination that’s hard to beat in today’s market.

🏡 Don’t leave your hard-earned benefits unused.

Whether you’re ready to buy your first home or explore your next move, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

👉 Reach out to us today—your trusted real estate advisors—so we can help you make the most of your VA home loan and find the home you deserve.

Insights originally shared by Keeping Current Matters. Local perspective and commentary by Yvonne Yang, Top Bay Area Realtor®.