What Is a VA Loan?
A VA loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This guarantee allows lenders to offer favorable terms to those who have served our country — including zero down payment, no private mortgage insurance, and competitive interest rates.
Florida is home to one of the largest veteran populations in the nation, and VA loans are often one of the strongest options for those who qualify. Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, or refinancing, a VA loan can lower your total cost substantially over the life of the loan.
As a broker with hundreds of wholesale lenders, I compare VA pricing across the market. Many veterans don't realize that VA loan rates vary significantly between lenders — comparing them is how you avoid overpaying.
Key Benefits & Features
Eligible borrowers can purchase a home with no down payment — one of the few mainstream programs offering 100% financing.
Lower monthly costs than many conventional or FHA loans. No monthly mortgage insurance, regardless of your down payment (a VA funding fee may apply).
VA loan rates are often lower than comparable conventional rates because of the government guarantee; the difference varies by lender and market, which is why I compare them.
Already have a VA loan? The Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan lets you lower your rate with minimal documentation and no appraisal.
While lenders set their own minimums, many VA-approved lenders accept scores as low as 580 with full entitlement.
Veterans with full entitlement have no VA loan limit — you can borrow as much as a lender will approve with zero down.
Who Qualifies for a VA Loan?
VA loans are available to those who have served our country. Eligibility is determined by your service history and discharge status:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Veterans | 90+ days active wartime service or 181+ days peacetime service |
| Active-Duty | Currently serving with 90+ days of continuous service |
| National Guard / Reserves | 6+ years of service or 90+ days of active-duty deployment |
| Surviving Spouses | Un-remarried spouse of veteran who died in service or from service-connected disability |
| Certificate of Eligibility | COE required (I can often pull this for you in minutes) |
| Credit Score | 580+ typical minimum (varies by lender) |
| VA Funding Fee | 1.25% to 3.3% (can be financed; exempt for disabled veterans) |
| Occupancy | Primary residence only |
Why Work with Jason & Loan Factory?
Not all lenders are equal when it comes to VA loans. Some charge higher rates or add unnecessary fees. As a mortgage broker, I have access to hundreds of wholesale lenders who compete for your business — meaning your VA loan is priced against the market rather than a single bank's rate sheet.
I've helped numerous veterans and military families across Florida secure their dream homes with VA financing. I understand the unique aspects of VA lending, including COE requirements, VA funding fee exemptions, and how to handle PCS moves. Let me put my 25+ years of experience to work for you.