VA Loan FAQ for California

Yes. Eligible veterans with full entitlement buy with $0 down and no monthly mortgage insurance — the loan's signature benefit, matched by no other mainstream program.

No — the VA guarantees part of the loan, but private lenders and brokers make it. That guarantee is what enables $0 down and no MI.

Often — because they're government-guaranteed, VA rates typically run a bit below conventional. With no monthly MI, the total cost is very competitive.

Yes. A qualified buyer can take over your rate and balance — a strong selling point when you hold a low rate.

Veterans, active-duty members, and many Guard/Reserve members meeting service minimums, plus qualifying surviving spouses. See Eligibility.

As many times as you qualify — it's reusable. Entitlement restores after you sell and pay off a VA-financed home.

Sometimes — using remaining or second-tier entitlement, some veterans keep a first home when relocating and buy another. Subject to entitlement math and lender approval.

Yes — spouses of members who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected disability may qualify, often with a funding fee exemption.

The VA document proving you qualify and showing your entitlement. Your lender usually pulls it electronically in minutes.

2.15% first-use/no-down in 2026, dropping to 1.50% (5% down) or 1.25% (10% down). Subsequent use is 3.30% with no down. It can be financed. See Requirements.

Veterans with a 10%+ VA disability rating, surviving spouses receiving DIC, and active-duty Purple Heart recipients — saving thousands.

No — none, ever. The one-time funding fee replaces it, which is a big part of VA's cost advantage.

Yes — most borrowers roll it into the loan rather than pay cash at closing.

For 2026 it's deductible for those who qualify, treated like upfront mortgage insurance. Check with a tax professional for your situation.

Not a pure investment. You must occupy the home, but you can buy a 2–4 unit, live in one, and rent the others with $0 down.

Yes, if the project is VA-approved (or can be approved). We can check a specific project before you offer.

Yes — occupied generally within 60 days of closing. No vacation homes or pure rentals.

An appraisal that checks value and that the home meets the VA's Minimum Property Requirements — safe, sound, sanitary. See Requirements.

Typically 30–45 days, similar to other loans. Pre-approval first removes several days.

Yes — the "weak offer" idea is a myth. VA loans close at comparable rates; a strong pre-approval and clean offer matter more than loan type.

For eligible veterans, usually yes — $0 down and no monthly MI beat both. See Pros & Cons.

Your COE (we pull it), photo ID, recent pay stubs, W-2s/tax returns, and bank statements. Surviving spouses may need additional documentation.