What is a VA loan, and who qualifies?
A VA loan is a mortgage backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses — often 0% down, no monthly mortgage insurance, and competitive rates. A one-time funding fee applies, waived for many disabled veterans.
A VA loan is one of the strongest benefits earned through military service: a mortgage backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and certain surviving spouses.
Why it's hard to beat
Three reasons: no down payment for most eligible buyers, no monthly mortgage insurance — a meaningful monthly savings compared with FHA or low-down conventional loans — and competitive rates (program terms verified August 2026). For buyers who qualify, it's usually the first option worth pricing.
Two things to know going in
First, there's a one-time funding fee — a percentage of the loan that varies with your down payment and whether you've used the benefit before — and it's waived for many veterans receiving VA disability compensation, among others. Second, you'll need a Certificate of Eligibility; a VA-savvy lender can usually pull it quickly, and it slots neatly into the standard document gathering.
Using it in Central Florida
VA loans work for regular resale homes and new construction alike. Occasionally a listing agent misjudges VA offers out of old habit — which is exactly when having an agent who presents your offer properly, funding and timeline spelled out, earns its keep. If VA turns out not to be available to you, USDA is the other zero-down path, and the full loan menu covers the rest.
If you've served — thank you. Let's make sure you never leave this benefit on the table. Bring your questions, and I'll bring lenders who work VA files every week.
This answer is general education, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Your situation is unique — let's talk through the specifics together.