After being approved for a VA-backed home loan, what are the next steps on homeownership with the VA loan?

PV2 Robert H. — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 13:04:58 -0400

I just recieved notification that I have been approved for a VA backed home loan, and I have never attempted to purchase a home before. Is there any experience and wisdom y'all can shed on next steps into owning my first home? I've looked into a first time hone buyers program as well, however I am very lost. Thank you in advance for your help and support!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2020 1:12 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 13:12:22 -0400

spend the money to get a top notch home inspection done before you buy. It could save you thousands in repairs down the road. Lots of shady people out there who will do half-ass cosmetic fixes to cover serious structural or other issues in order to sell. Friend of mine bought a house about a year ago and went cheap on the inspection. Couple months after he moved in he had to have both the plumbing and wiring completely redone. Cost him $10K.

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Sep 2 at 2020 3:06 PM

SSG Carlos Madden — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 15:06:50 -0400

Hit up SGT Ben Keen. I think he's going through this process as well. He may be able to give you the latest and greatest advice.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2020 3:24 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 15:24:27 -0400

If you are a USAA member, you can contact them, let them know you want to do your VA home loan through them, and they can set you up with a USAA-approved real estate agent in your area.
And the rest is a pretty smooth process.

Response by CDR Terry Boles made Sep 2 at 2020 4:36 PM

CDR Terry Boles — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 16:36:38 -0400

I agree, use a mortgage broker which can save you lots if costs during closing and they usually will have access to lower unpublished home loan rates.

Look into United Wholesale Mortgage website. They have a link that will help you find a local broker. Currently, 09-02-20, their VA home loan rate is 2.25.% with no points.

Shop wisely!

Response by SP5 Peter Keane made Sep 2 at 2020 4:55 PM

SP5 Peter Keane — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 16:55:22 -0400

You haven't been approved for anything if you are lost. Approval comes at the tail end of the process.

Response by PVT Debra Wolcott made Sep 3 at 2020 5:06 AM

PVT Debra Wolcott — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 05:06:10 -0400

I would suggest if you are a member of a Credit Union such as Navy Federal Credit Union you can take your VA Certificate to them. I do all of my banking through them they have my home that I just closed on 4/8/20, and everything I have ever had to finance. They are a Credit Union for Active Duty, Retired, Veteran ,Dependents And DOD. You will get a great rate there I am a Disabled Veteran. You need to get a great home inspection like has been said! Your realtor will know what needs to be done, and the lender also. You just need to find your first home good luck.