The VA Loan is a valuable tool that military members and veterans may use to pursue home ownership.

VA Loans in Fresno, CA: 0% Down for Veterans & Active Military

As a mortgage loan officer who's had the honor of serving many veterans and active-duty military members in Fresno, I understand the sacrifice you've made for our country. The VA home loan program is one of the most powerful benefits available to you—and I'm here to help you take full advantage of it.

What is a VA Loan?

A VA loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It's specifically designed to help veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses achieve homeownership with incredible benefits that no other loan program can match.

The bottom line: VA loans are arguably the best mortgage product available in America today.

Why Choose a VA Loan?

Zero Down Payment Buy a home with $0 down. That's right—no down payment required, even on homes up to $766,550 in most California counties.

No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) Unlike conventional loans, VA loans don't require PMI even with 0% down. This saves you $100-300+ per month.

Competitive Interest Rates VA loans typically offer lower interest rates than conventional loans—often 0.25% to 0.50% lower.

Flexible Credit Requirements While the VA doesn't set a minimum credit score, most lenders (including me) can work with scores as low as 580-620.

Seller Can Pay Closing Costs Sellers can pay up to 4% of the home price toward your closing costs, making homeownership even more affordable.

No Prepayment Penalty Pay off your loan early without any penalties.

VA Refinance Options Once you have a VA loan, you can refinance with the streamlined IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan) program.

Who Qualifies for a VA Loan?

You may be eligible if you are:

Veterans:

  • Served 90 consecutive days during wartime, OR

  • Served 181 days during peacetime, OR

  • Served 6 years in the National Guard or Reserves

Active-Duty Service Members:

  • Served at least 90 continuous days

National Guard & Reserves:

  • Served at least 6 years

Surviving Spouses:

  • Of service members who died in service or from service-connected disabilities

  • Who have not remarried (in most cases)

Certificate of Eligibility (COE): You'll need to obtain your COE, which proves your eligibility. I can help you get this—it usually takes just a few days.

VA Loan Requirements

Credit Score: While the VA doesn't set a minimum, most lenders require 580-620. I've successfully helped veterans with scores in the 600s secure VA loans.

Income Requirements: You must have stable, sufficient income to cover the mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, and other debts.

Debt-to-Income Ratio: Generally up to 41%, though higher ratios may be approved with compensating factors.

Residual Income: The VA requires you to have a specific amount of money left over each month after paying all debts. This amount varies by family size and region.

Property Requirements:

  • Must be your primary residence

  • Property must meet VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)

  • VA appraisal required

VA Loan Limits in California (2025)

Good News: As of 2020, the VA eliminated loan limits for veterans with full entitlement!

This means eligible veterans can borrow as much as they qualify for (and the lender approves) without a down payment.

For Fresno County:

  • Standard loan limit: $766,550 (for veterans using partial entitlement)

  • No maximum for veterans with full entitlement

VA Funding Fee

The VA charges a one-time funding fee that helps keep the program running for future veterans. This fee can be rolled into your loan amount.

Funding Fee Rates (2025):

  • First-time use, 0% down: 2.15% of loan amount

  • First-time use, 5%+ down: 1.50% of loan amount

  • First-time use, 10%+ down: 1.25% of loan amount

  • Subsequent use: 3.30% of loan amount

Exemptions: Veterans with service-connected disabilities and surviving spouses are exempt from the funding fee.

Why Choose Marcus for Your VA Loan?

  • Experience with Veterans: I've helped dozens of veterans and active-duty service members in Fresno secure VA loans. I understand the unique aspects of military life—PCS moves, deployment, VA disability, etc.

  • Fast Processing: I know you want to get into your home quickly. My average closing time is 21 days.

  • We Handle the COE: I'll help you obtain your Certificate of Eligibility and guide you through every step.

  • Competitive Rates: I shop multiple lenders to ensure you get the best rate possible.

  • Clear Communication: You'll always know where your loan stands. No surprises, no confusion.

  • Respect for Your Service: Thank you for your service to our country. Helping veterans achieve homeownership is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.

Ready to Use Your VA Home Loan Benefit?

You've earned this benefit through your service to our country. Let me help you take advantage of it.