VA Home Loans

Exclusive Mortgage Benefits for Veterans, Service Members & Eligible Spouses

VA Home Loans provide some of the most powerful and affordable mortgage benefits available in the United States. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, these loans help eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses purchase or refinance a home with exceptional terms, often with no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI) required.

With more than 20+ years of lending experience, Jesse Schwager proudly serves military families across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Virginia, and Maryland by offering clear guidance, accurate eligibility reviews, and mortgage solutions that honor their service.

What Are VA Home Loans?

VA Home Loans are government-backed mortgages designed to make homeownership easier and more affordable for those who have served or supported our nation. Because the VA guarantees a portion of the loan, lenders can offer more flexible terms and exceptionally strong benefits.

These loans are considered one of the best financing options available for qualified military borrowers.

Key Benefits of VA Home Loans

No Down Payment Required: Most eligible borrowers can finance 100% of the purchase price with no down payment.
No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Borrowers save significantly over the life of the loan by avoiding PMI entirely.
Competitive Interest Rates: VA Loans often offer lower rates than Conventional Loans.
Flexible Credit Requirements: VA guidelines allow more flexibility for borrowers with past credit challenges.
No Loan Limits for Eligible Borrowers: Since 2020, eligible VA borrowers with full entitlement have no VA loan limit.
Reduced Closing Costs: VA restricts certain lender fees to protect the borrower.

Who Qualifies for a VA Home Loan?

Eligibility is based on service history and duty status. Borrowers must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which Jesse can assist with.

You may qualify if you are:

An active-duty service member
A veteran
A member of the National Guard or Reserves
A surviving spouse of a veteran
A veteran with disability benefits
A retired service member

Service time requirements vary, but many borrowers qualify with:

90 days of active-duty wartime service
181 days of active-duty peacetime service
6 years in the National Guard or Reserves

VA Loan Requirements

While VA Loans are more forgiving than other loan programs, lenders still review a borrower’s financial health.

Credit Score: Most lenders require a credit score of at least 580–620, depending on the scenario.
Residual Income (VA-Specific Requirement): VA evaluates your monthly cash flow to ensure long-term financial stability.
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Typically up to 41%–55%, depending on the borrower profile and compensating factors.
Property Requirements: The home must be safe, sound, and sanitary according to VA appraisal standards.
Occupancy Requirements: VA Loans are for primary residences only.

Types of VA Home Loans

VA Purchase Loan: Used to buy a home with zero down and no PMI.
VA Cash-Out Refinance: Tap your home equity, even if you don’t have an existing VA Loan.
VA IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan): The VA “Streamline Refinance” offers a quick, simplified way to lower your rate.
VA Renovation Loan: Finances home improvements and upgrades along with your mortgage.
VA Jumbo Loan: High-balance loans for borrowers purchasing above standard VA thresholds.

VA Home Loan vs. Conventional Loan

VA typically wins when:

You want $0 down
You prefer no PMI
You want lower interest rates
You have moderate credit
You are a qualifying service member or spouse

Conventional may be better when:

Buying investment or second homes
Purchasing properties that don’t meet VA requirements
You want to remove mortgage insurance sooner

Jesse breaks down both options so you can choose the best loan program for your situation.

Refinancing With a VA Loan

VA refinancing options include:

VA IRRRL (Streamline Refinance)

No appraisal required in most cases
No income verification
Fastest refinance option
Designed to lower your interest rate

VA Cash-Out Refinance

Access home equity for:

Home improvements
Debt consolidation
College expenses
Medical bills
Major purchases

VA-to-Conventional Refinance

Some borrowers choose this option to remove VA entitlement from the property.

Why Military Borrowers Choose Jesse Schwager

20+ years of mortgage lending experience
Deep understanding of VA loan requirements
Fast and accurate eligibility reviews
Experience working with military families nationwide
Transparent communication throughout the process
Commitment to honoring your service with exceptional support

Jesse ensures that every VA borrower receives the respect, clarity, and care they deserve.

Get Pre-Approved for a VA Home Loan

Your Path to Secure, Stress-Free Home Financing Starts Here

Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or relocating due to service, a VA Home Loan may be the most beneficial mortgage option available to you.

Start your VA Loan pre-approval today with a lender who proudly supports our veterans and military families.