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How to Buy a House as a Veteran or Active Military
Dated: December 1 2025
Views: 6
How to Buy a House as a Veteran or Active Military
By Alzira Escobar-Pruitt, REALTOR® | RE/MAX Real Estate Group
Veterans and active-duty military members have access to some of the most powerful homebuying benefits available. The VA home loan program is designed to make homeownership more accessible, more affordable, and more secure for those who have served our country. Whether you are purchasing your first home or upgrading due to relocation, understanding your benefits can help you make the most of your military service.
Here is a complete guide to buying a home as a veteran or active-duty service member.
Start by Understanding Your VA Loan Benefits
The VA loan is one of the best home financing options available. It offers significant advantages that traditional loans do not.
Key highlights include
• No down payment required
• No private mortgage insurance
• Competitive interest rates
• Flexible credit requirements
• Limits on closing costs
• Ability to refinance easily with VA streamline programs
These benefits make it possible for military families to buy a home with little upfront cost while keeping monthly payments affordable.
Check Your Certificate of Eligibility
Your Certificate of Eligibility confirms your military service and verifies that you qualify for a VA-backed loan.
You can obtain this through
• The VA website
• Your lender
• A Veterans Service Officer
Most lenders can access it for you in minutes.
Know Your Basic Entitlement and Bonus Entitlement
Your entitlement determines how much the VA will guarantee on your loan.
Most buyers use their basic entitlement to purchase a home, but if you live in an area with higher housing costs, bonus entitlement may allow you to borrow more without a down payment.
Understand the VA Funding Fee
VA loans do not require mortgage insurance, but they include a funding fee.
This fee supports the VA loan program and is based on
• Whether it is your first VA loan
• Your down payment amount
• Your service type
Some veterans with service-connected disabilities are exempt from the funding fee entirely.
Choose a Lender Experienced With VA Loans
Not all lenders handle VA loans equally.
An experienced VA lender will help you
• Understand your full benefit
• Receive competitive rates
• Navigate required VA guidelines
• Avoid unnecessary delays
Your Realtor can help you choose a lender who specializes in working with military members.
Plan for PCS Moves and Deployment
Military life often includes relocations and deployments.
When buying a home, consider
• Resale value
• Rental potential
• Local BAH rates
• Appreciation trends
• Distance to base
A Realtor experienced with military clients can help you choose neighborhoods that support long-term flexibility.
Know What Inspections and Requirements Apply
VA loans include specific property requirements to ensure the home is safe and move-in ready.
While the VA appraisal is not a full inspection, it does check for
• Structural safety
• Roof condition
• Proper heating
• Electrical and plumbing issues
• Pest or moisture damage
A separate home inspection is still recommended to give you a complete understanding of the property.
Use Your VA Loan Benefit More Than Once
Many veterans believe they can only use their VA loan once, but this is not true.
You can use it
• Multiple times
• For future home purchases
• After selling a previous VA-financed home
• Even at the same time in certain circumstances
Your entitlement can be restored when you sell or refinance the previous VA property.
Consider VA Refinance Options Later
If interest rates drop, VA homeowners can refinance easily through
• VA IRRRL streamline refinance
• Cash-out VA refinance
These programs offer simplified approval and low out-of-pocket expense.
Final Thoughts
Veterans and active-duty service members have earned some of the strongest homeownership benefits available. With no down payment, flexible approval requirements, and competitive rates, the VA loan program provides a powerful path to owning a home.
If you are a veteran or active-duty military member looking to buy in Colorado Springs or the Pikes Peak region, I would be honored to guide you through the process and help you take full advantage of your benefits.
Click here to schedule a free no-obligation consultation!
Click here to learn about the author!
Alzira Escobar-Pruitt, REALTOR® | SRES® | RE/MAX Real Estate Group
Serving Colorado Springs, Monument, Fountain, Pueblo West & surrounding areas
Direct: 719-210-9848
Email: alzira@alzirarealtor.com
Website: www.AlziraProperties.com
Alzira Escobar-Pruitt
From Southern Spain to the heart of Colorado, Alzira Escobar Pruitt has become one of the most trusted and culturally connected REALTORS® in the Pikes Peak region, serving clients from all Spanish sp....
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