The Process
Home ownership is more than just buying a house today – it’s an investment in your life, the future, and your family’s future. Before you dive into it, you want to equip yourself with all available resources that will enable you to move forward swiftly and successfully. We understand the nature of securing home loans is stressful, which is why our team here at the Home Loan Expert strives to make the process as easy and streamlined as possible. We want you to enjoy the experience from start to finish.
Though there are other items that pop up along the way, the entire process can be broken down in just 5 steps:
Preliminary Application
To get started, you need to simply fill out our secured contact form here on our website. Once completed, one of our VA Loans Specialists will reach out to you to discuss your unique situation, aspirations, and how we can assist you on securing your VA Loan.
The pre-qualification step is important because it provides a rough sketch of what home price you can afford, while also laying the foundation for the entire process moving forward. Our specialists are experts at their craft, which means they will be able to tell you if the VA Loan is a right fit or not for you. If you’re unsure of your credit score, don’t fret: we can assist you on your path to financing your home.
Pre-Approval
The next part of the VA Loan journey is your pre-approval notice, which includes a pre-approval package of documents that outline everything we will need to secure that loan. Don’t be overwhelmed by the paperwork. We will fill out all necessary information for you, as well as group and organize everything to make it easier to process.
Once you return the packet to us, a representative will issue the pre-approval letter, communicating to your real estate agent that you are financially capable of buying and maintaining a home. Documents that we will need during this step include:
- Pay stubs / Income Statements & Documents
- Tax returns and W2s
- Employment history
- Bank statements
- Information regarding other Real Estate Owned
Once we receive your paperwork, one of our offices will use a copy of your DD-2014 to obtain the VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA. The COE confirms your right to participate in the VA Loan program. As a dedicated VA lending company, we can electronically request the COE forms on your behalf so you don’t have to.
Realtor Selection
Our Realty selection on our website will connect you with military-friendly real estate agents in the community. These are agents who have experience working with individuals in your situation, and know the unique needs and demands of our service members. They work hard to make sure you get the most out of your hard-earned benefits while taking advantage of every VA Loan afforded to you.
There are bonuses also available for closing just by using one of our partnered agents.
Offer Submission
After all of this is said and done, it’s time to make the offer on your dream house. Rest assured, your agent knows the ins and outs of the VA Loan so they can structure the contract in a way that protects your right to put no money-down on the offer.
Closing
It’s finally time to order an appraisal for the property! The home will be move-in ready, as that is a requirement set forth by the VA. Any problems with the property have to be corrected by the seller before the loan process is complete. At this time, your loan documentation will go under review. The underwriter assigned to each case will verify all of the information supplemented, and may each out for additional details. It’s this person’s job to ensure everything is meeting VA guidelines.
Once the loan is approved, a closing date will be announced. At the closing, you will sign the paperwork, finalize the VA Loan, and walk into your new, incredible home.
Get approved for your VA loan now
