30-yr fixed6.75%+0.0315-yr fixed6.05%+0.00FHA 30-yr6.55%+0.08VA 30-yr6.38%+0.08Jumbo 30-yr6.82%+0.11Updated September 1, 2026
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Your situation

Veteran homebuyer

The VA loan is the best mortgage benefit most veterans will ever receive, and it is widely misunderstood by sellers, agents and even some lenders.

Calculate your VA funding fee

Who this is for

  • Veterans, active-duty members, some Guard and Reserve members, and eligible surviving spouses
  • Buyers who want zero down with no monthly mortgage insurance
  • Veterans who have used the benefit before and want to use it again

How it works, step by step

  1. Get your Certificate of Eligibility early.
  2. Pick a lender by VA volume, not by brand; VA pricing varies widely.
  3. Check whether you are exempt from the funding fee; a service-connected disability rating usually means yes.
  4. Use the VA appraisal's condition rules as a shield, not a hurdle.

Pros

  • Zero down
  • No mortgage insurance
  • Rates often below conventional
  • Reusable benefit

Cons

  • Funding fee if not exempt
  • Primary residence only
  • Myths about VA loans can cost you in competitive markets