VA Loans in Fresno & the Central Valley
A VA loan is a mortgage backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and offered through VA-approved lenders. VA loans help veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses become homeowners with no down payment and no private mortgage insurance.
Who VA Loans May Be Right For
Eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses who want a low-cost path to homeownership with no down payment.
Advantages
- 0% down payment required in most cases
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Competitive interest rates
- Limited closing costs that sellers can help pay
- More forgiving credit guidelines than conventional loans
Things to Consider
- Requires a valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- A VA funding fee applies, though it can be financed into the loan
- The home must be your primary residence
Credit Considerations
VA loans do not set a strict minimum credit score, but most lenders look for a score of around 580 or higher. The VA program focuses on your overall credit history and residual income.
Down Payment Considerations
No down payment is required for loans at or below the county loan limit. Making a down payment can reduce the VA funding fee.
How the Application Works
- 1
Confirm eligibility
We help you obtain your VA Certificate of Eligibility to verify your benefit.
- 2
Get pre-qualified
We review your service history, income, and credit to pre-qualify you.
- 3
Find your home
Shop for a primary residence that meets VA appraisal standards.
- 4
Close with no down payment
Finalize your loan, finance the funding fee if desired, and get your keys.
Typical Documentation
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA
- DD-214 or active service documentation
- 30 days of pay stubs and two years of W-2s/tax returns
- Two months of recent bank statements
- Photo ID and Social Security number
VA Loans Frequently Asked Questions
Do VA loans really require no down payment?
Yes. For loans at or below the VA county loan limit, eligible borrowers can finance 100% of the home's value with no down payment. A down payment is optional and can reduce the VA funding fee.
What is the VA funding fee?
The VA funding fee is a one-time charge that helps keep the VA loan program self-sustaining. It varies based on your down payment and whether you've used the benefit before, and it can be financed into the loan. Some veterans are exempt from the fee.