It’s common for VA-approved lenders to use VA underwriting software to “read” income and credit numbers in a VA loan application to determine whether a borrower qualifies.  In some circumstances a closer look from a manual underwriter (someone with special certification for determining VA loan qualification) is needed. 
 
When a VA loan applicant has special […]

 
VA Loans require a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the borrower.  The process to obtain a COE is not difficult and should never deter someone from forging ahead with the VA loan process. Most COEs can be obtained through a VA-approved lender in a matter of minutes using Automated Certificates of Eligibility, otherwise known as […]

One of the most common misconceptions regarding the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program is that it’s a one-time deal.  Many people believe that once they get a VA loan, they can never get one again.  On the contrary, as long as a veteran has entitlement, the benefit can be used again and again.  Entitlement is […]

Many VA borrowers wonder whether they can get more than one loan with the VA Loan Guaranty Program.  In fact, you can use VA loans as many times as you want as long as you have entitlement.  Entitlement is how much the VA will guarantee for each loan under the Program. And, entitlement is available […]

The recession throughout 2008 has affected unemployment.  In 2009, families are struggling to make ends meet.  Shrinking home values and rising mortgage delinquencies are causing the U.S. housing market to be in crisis — a situation that intensified in late 2007 and climaxed in 2008.  A surplus of bank-owned properties only added fuel to the […]

VA loans have proven to be resilient since the start of the recession in 2008. When mortgages issued under other loan programs came to a virtual halt, VA loans seemed to continue progressing at a steady pace.  Factors leading up to the 2008 mortgage crisis had little effect on the VA loan guaranty program.   
 
Just […]

Book Review:
Returning from the War on Terrorism
By Bruce C. Brown
Reviewed by Julie Scott
 
The “Buddy System” works well when buddies cooperate.  They watch each other through thick and thin, offer help when the going gets tough and rejoice together in the accomplishments earned by the other buddy.  A buddy system is recommended for risky or dangerous […]

While interviewing with Matt Lauer on February 2, 2009, President Barack Obama said U.S. Troops would start to be withdrawn from Iraq within a year.  The President said that the United States can now start giving more responsibility to the Iraqis, and that a more clearly defined withdrawal plan would follow in the coming days.  […]

VA and FHA loans are terrific, federal-backed mortgage programs for those who qualify. When considering mortgage options, one should look closely at the benefits of each of these programs. There are differences between military and FHA mortgages.  Qualifying requirements, down payments and fees can all vary between the two programs.  Deciding which loan program is […]

Interest rates are at historic lows for the first part of 2009, and now may be a great time for many homeowners to refinance. VA’s Streamline Refinance Program can be easier and speedier compared to conventional loans.
 
Falling mortgage interest rates have compelled many homeowners to research refinancing avenues in order to lower their monthly payments.  […]