The VA Home Loan Advantage: What Every Veteran Should Know Right Now

If you’ve served in the military (or if your spouse has), you have access to one of the most powerful homebuying tools out there. The chance to buy a home without having a down payment.

Unfortunately, 70% of Veterans (that’s 7 out of every 10) don’t know about this benefit, according to Veterans United.

And that’s a big missed opportunity for those who’ve earned this benefit through service. So, let’s break down what you really need to know about Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans right now.

Why VA Home Loans Can Be a Great Option

For nearly 80 years, VA loans have made homeownership possible for millions of Veterans and active-duty service members. Here are just a few of the top perks according to the Department of Veteran Affairs:

Options for $0 Down Payment: Many Veterans can buy a home without spending years saving up.
Fewer Upfront Costs: The VA limits which types of closing costs Veterans have to pay, helping you keep more cash on hand when you’re finalizing your purchase.
No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Unlike many other loan types, VA loans don’t require PMI, lowering your monthly costs.

These features make VA loans a great way for service members (or their family) to build stability, save money, and start creating long-term wealth through homeownership.

Can You Still Get a VA Loan with the Government Shutdown?

But lately, there’s been some confusion about whether VA loans are still available due to the government shutdown. And that uncertainty has kept some Veterans from taking the next step.

While there may be processing delays, Veterans United explains you can still get a loan:

“There’s been a lot of confusion and uncertainty about how a government shutdown will affect VA home loans . . . The good news is that the shutdown has minimal impacts on VA lending. Lenders are still able to order appraisals, obtain a borrower’s Certificate of Eligibility, submit the VA Funding Fee and more. In short, Veterans are still able to use their home loan benefit to buy a home or refinance an existing mortgage.”

So, despite the headlines, you can still use your VA home loan benefits today. The process is ready when you are. It just may take more time to go through.

Why the Right Agent and Lender Matter

Just remember, using your VA home loan is easier (and smoother) when you have the right team behind you. As VA News puts it:

“Choosing a military-friendly broker or agent who understands the VA home loan application process can make all the difference in the homebuying experience. Finding the right agency or brokerage is just as important as locking in a good VA mortgage lender. Communication is key to getting to the loan closing table.”

A knowledgeable agent and an experienced lender can help you navigate every step, all the way from qualifying to closing. With their help, you can make sure you’re getting the most out of your benefits.

Bottom Line

If you’re a Veteran, a VA home loan is one of the most valuable benefits you’ve earned through your service. It offers options for no down payment, limited closing costs, and more.

Want to learn more? Talk to a lender so you can take full advantage of the benefits you’ve earned.

Written by Tiia Cartwright on November 10, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized

Tiia Cartwright

Tiia Cartwright, originally from Finland, is a distinguished real estate broker who is transforming the industry through her unwavering commitment to excellence and a client-centric approach. After moving to the United States during her high school years, Tiia pursued a degree in Finance at Louisiana State University, equipping her with a strong foundation in financial management and analysis. Her career journey initially led her to Arthur Andersen in New York City, one of the most prestigious public accounting firms. While she gained valuable experience in finance and accounting, Tiia discovered her true calling lay in connecting with people on a more personal level. In 2006, she took a bold step to transition into real estate, joining forces with Rhonda Duffy at Duffy Realty of Atlanta. There, she quickly became a top-performing real estate professional, adept at forming genuine connections with her clients. During her time with Duffy Realty, Tiia successfully listed and sold around 600 homes, earning a stellar reputation for her exceptional service. In 2007, Tiia founded Cartwright Realty in Tampa, FL, aiming to make a lasting impact on the industry. Under her visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence, the agency has become a market leader in the region, exceeding client expectations and setting new industry standards. Tiia's commitment to her clients' satisfaction has made her a trusted advisor, helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of buying and selling homes. Her deep local market knowledge and understanding of her clients' unique needs enable her to craft tailored strategies that consistently deliver outstanding results. Beyond her professional success, Tiia's dedication extends to her community, actively participating in charitable initiatives. Her efforts to make a positive difference in the lives of those less fortunate have earned her recognition and accolades. Today, Tiia Cartwright is a respected figure in the real estate industry, setting the standard for exceptional service, expertise, and dedication to her clients' success. Her consistent top performance exemplifies professionalism and serves as an inspiring example for emerging real estate professionals. For those seeking guidance in the complex world of real estate, Tiia Cartwright and her Cartwright Realty team embody excellence, integrity, and a track record of outstanding results.

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The VA Home Loan Advantage: What Every Veteran Should Know Right Now