different terms, take cash out of their home equity, or refinance a non-VA loan and replace it with a VA-backed loan. Like all other VA home loans, the home must be the veteran's primary residence.
How to Buy a Home with a VA-Backed Loan
To buy a home with a VA-backed home loan, you first need to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This tells private lenders that you have VA home loan eligibility and entitlement. It is the first step in getting a VA-backed loan or Native American Direct Loan. Please provide documentation of your service. For veterans and current or former National Guard or Reserve members, you will need a copy of your discharge papers, known as your DD214 for activated members, or, for those who were not activated, a copy of their latest annual retirement points and proof of their honorable service. Active duty service members and activated National Guard or Reserve Members will need to provide a statement of service signed by their commander with their full name, social security number, date of birth, the date they entered duty, duration of any lost time, and the name of the commander providing the information. Surviving spouses will need to provide their veteran’s DD214. If they are receiving Dependency & Indemnity Compensation (DIC), they will need to fill out VA form 26-1817, Request for Determination of Loan Guaranty Eligibility—Unmarried Surviving Spouses. If they are not receiving DIC, they must apply and provide a copy of their marriage license and the veteran’s death certificate.
Once you have all your documents, you can apply for your
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