VA Mortgage Lenders for 2026

What is a VA Loan?

VA home loans are mortgages backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, with down payments as low as 0%. These loans are a benefit offered to those serving in the armed forces, reservists, veterans and qualifying military family members, and are serviced through private lenders with special rates and terms for military personnel.

How do You Know if You Qualify for a VA Loan

VA loans are available to current service members and, in some cases, their spouses:

• Those currently serving in the military or veterans who were honorably discharged.
• This service must include at least 90 consecutive days of active service during wartime or at least 181 consecutive days of active service during peacetime.
• Those having more than six years of National Guard or reservist service.
• The surviving spouse of a service member killed in the line of active duty might also be eligible.

To obtain a VA loan, borrowers must present a VA certificate of eligibility (COE).

VA Mortgage Lenders

If you think you might qualify for a VA home loan, it is in your interest to apply. That’s because VA loans can be more advantageous than regular mortgages. One of the benefits of applying for a VA loan is that most lenders approve applicants with a less than perfect credit report. Typically, veterans, etc. have a lower credit score, a higher debt to income ratio, and short or no credit history. As such, clemencies are granted to these individuals when they apply for their loans. Additionally, VA loans generally come with a lower interest rate than you’ll find with other types of mortgages.

So, VA loans are easier to be approved for and will cost you less overall than a private mortgage. Whether you are applying for a single family home, condominium unit, or co-op units, the right lender can give you the financial backing you need to purchase your own living quarters with ease.