VA loans are a popular mortgage option for veterans and active-duty service members, offering many benefits such as no down payment requirement, lower interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance. However, VA loans are not only limited to military personnel; military spouses are also eligible to apply for these loans under certain circumstances. In this article, we’ll discuss what military spouses need to know about VA loans and how they can take advantage of this valuable benefit.
To be eligible for a VA loan as a military spouse, you must meet certain criteria. First, you must be the spouse of a veteran or service member who has died as a result of a service-connected disability or who died while on active duty. You must also not have remarried or, if you have remarried, must have done so after the age of 57.
In addition, you may be eligible for a VA loan as a surviving spouse if your spouse was a prisoner of war (POW) or missing in action (MIA) for at least 90 days.
One of the key benefits of a VA loan for military spouses is that there is no requirement for a down payment. This can be especially beneficial for those who may not have the funds for a traditional down payment or who want to preserve their savings for other purposes. In addition, VA loans typically have lower interest rates than conventional mortgages, which can save military spouses thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.
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Pre-Qualify NowIt’s important to note that while VA loans offer many benefits, they also come with some limitations. For example, VA loans are intended for primary residences only, and cannot be used to purchase investment properties or second homes.
In addition, the VA funding fee, a one-time fee that helps offset the cost of the VA loan program, may be higher for military spouses than for veterans or active-duty service members. However, this fee can be rolled into the loan amount, so you don’t have to pay it upfront.
In conclusion, VA loans are a valuable benefit for military spouses who meet the eligibility requirements. By taking advantage of this option, military spouses can access affordable home financing and achieve their dream of homeownership. If you’re a military spouse and think you may be eligible for a VA loan, we recommend working with a VA-approved lender who can guide you through the process and help you make the most of this benefit.