If you or your partner has served in the military, you may qualify for one of the most meaningful home-buying benefits available: a VA home loan. Many veterans are unaware of the power of this tool. Not only can it remove the burden of a large down payment, but it can also make buying a home in Nashville significantly more attainable. 

As a trusted Nashville real estate agent, the Six1Five Living Team at Compass guides veterans through every step of this benefit, helping turn your hard-earned service into a pathway to homeownership.

Why the VA Home Loan Is a Game-Changer

VA loans are designed to support veterans and service members in achieving their homeownership goals. Some of the top benefits include:

Is the VA Home Loan Still Available During Shutdowns?

There’s sometimes confusion around government shutdowns and VA lending. The good news: while there may be processing delays, VA loans remain available. 

Lenders can still order appraisals, verify a veteran’s Certificate of Eligibility, and submit funding-fee paperwork. In short, your benefit remains accessible; however, please be prepared for potentially longer timelines.

How Much Sooner Can Veterans Buy?

A U.S. analysis shows that a 0% down VA loan may allow veterans to buy a home up to 4.4 years sooner than with a conventional loan. That estimate is based on comparing the savings required: the typical 12% down payment for conventional loans can take years to accumulate, but with VA financing, that barrier is essentially eliminated.

Put simply: you start building equity and stability much earlier than you might think.

What to Know About the VA Funding Fee

While VA loans come with many perks, there is a VA funding fee, a percentage of the loan amount that varies depending on your service history, whether it’s your first time using the benefit, and other factors.

That said, this fee can typically be financed through the loan, and some veterans, such as those with service-connected disabilities, may be exempt from it.

Risks & Considerations to Be Aware Of

• Competition: VA buyers may sometimes face challenges in highly competitive markets. Some sellers or agents may favor cash or conventional offers; experiences vary.
• Appraisal process: The VA appraisal has specific standards, and disagreements may arise regarding value.
• Funding fee cost: While competitive, the VA funding fee can add to your total loan cost; it’s essential to calculate how it affects your total loan.
• Processing delays: If there’s a shutdown or high volume, steps like appraisals or COE verification may take longer than usual.

Ready To Use Your VA Benefit With Confidence?

If you’re a veteran preparing to purchase a home, this is an ideal moment to make the most of your VA loan benefit. Whether you’re exploring options in Nashville, Williamson County areas like Franklin and Brentwood, or Hendersonville and Gallatin in Sumner County, Mt. Juliet and Five Oaks in Wilson County, and Sango and Rudolphtown in Montgomery County, Middle Tennessee offers exceptional communities for veterans.

The Six1Five Living Team at Compass, led by Martha Montiel-Lewis, is here to guide you through every step with clarity, strategy, and trusted expertise. We’ll help you understand your VA financing advantages, identify strong opportunities, and move through each step with confidence.

As trusted real estate advisors in Nashville, we’re committed to advocating for veterans, offering personalized support, strategic insight, and a seamless experience from start to finish. Your service deserves exceptional representation, and we’re here to ensure your homebuying journey is informed, empowering, and successful.

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