Veteran

How to Win in Your House Hunt

A VA loan is a great option

A VA loan is a great option for the first time homebuyer.  Just make sure you have your COE (Certificate of Eligibility) handy when you start the process. VA lenders want to get that filed quickly for you. 

Find a professional real estate agent

Next, finding a professional real estate agent is Job One.  According to the National Association of Realtors, 90% of homebuyers choose to work with a Realtor® and there are multiple knowledge and process reasons for doing so.   Most agents are highly service oriented, but make sure you pick one that is and has the time to be your Buyer Agent.  There are a lot of twists and turns in the home buying journey and it pays to have a VA savvy agent along for the ride.  One that has been through several VA transactions will make your journey less challenging. 

Look for expertise with agents

Looking for expertise with agents who know VA loans can make a huge difference in your cost of home acquisition. Always ask about their experience, so as an informed RE consumer, you know where you stand and what can be expected from a relationship.  Make sure you have an advocate on your behalf who knows all the VA loan and acquisition processes and home requirements.

Define your needs and wants

Carefully define your needs and wants.  Early on it is very helpful to meet and share with your VA skilled agent your basic home needs.  In the home search, it is often more about discarding homes that don’t measure up or qualify for a VA loan.  It is best to sketch your needs out in detail and load them into your local MLS as a daily search routine one that matches your approved budget and personal needs.  

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Resources

CreditSmart Military Financial Readiness Booklet