Information For Military Homebuyers

Found 55 blog entries about Information For Military Homebuyers.

What Are the VA Loan Occupancy Requirements?Government-backed loans through the Office of Veterans Affairs are commonly known as VA loans and are only available to veterans, active service members, and certain members of their families. VA loans offer zero or low down payments and great interest rates.

However, under VA loans for homes, there are occupancy requirements that must be met. That being said, there are also some exemptions. The following information details these requirements and exemptions for those considering undertaking this type of mortgage.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

The Time Constraints and Purpose of VA Loan Occupancy Stipulations

The purpose

2,250 Views, 0 Comments

VA Funding Fees: What They Are, Qualifying Exemptions, and Payment ArrangementsThose who are active or retired members of the US military looking to buy or refinance a home often consider going through the Department of Veterans Affairs. VA loans are excellent options with low down payments and interest rates, but there are certain funding fees that accompany them. The following information explains the purpose of the VA funding fee, exemptions, and how to pay.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

The VA Funding Fee Explained

The VA funding fee aims to help keep this loan guaranty program in operation for future veterans and military homebuyers for generations to come. The fee goes directly towards covering any losses

597 Views, 0 Comments

How to Buy a House with a VA Loan and Your Basic Housing Allowance (BAH)The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is an incredible financial benefit that can be leveraged by eligible military members and their families to find a home.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

What Is Basic Allowance for Housing?

The Basic Allowance for Housing is a monthly stipend to help pay for off-base housing. These funds ensure that individuals who do not qualify for on-base housing still have access to quality housing. There are three broad categories of service members who are able to qualify for BAH:

  • Individuals who are required to live off-base because there is a shortage of housing on base
  • Married soldiers of
459 Views, 0 Comments

The VA Energy Efficient Mortgage GuideVeterans and reservists are among those who may be able to take advantage of a VA Energy Efficient Mortgage or VA EEM program. This option is best for those looking to make energy-efficient upgrades on their home that may help reduce their heating and cooling costs, as well as decrease the pollution and moisture that may enter a traditional home. Military personnel and their spouses may want to know more about the VA Energy Efficient Mortgage option before selecting a mortgage loan product.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Why Choose to Be More Energy Efficient?

Traditionally, owners of existing homes have had to contend with

381 Views, 0 Comments

Should You Choose Military Housing?One of the advantages of a military career may come in the form of military housing. Both individuals and those with families join the military every year and have to decide whether to live on or off base.

Because military housing is a big decision, reviewing this arrangement can help provide people with the clarity they need to make the right choice for their needs. What do military personnel need to know about this important choice?

What to Know About Living On Base

There can be financial savings to residing on base. In some situations, living on post translates to saving money that would have gone to rent and other costs of living. Individuals choosing to live on base do not receive BAH for their decision. In some cases, however, living

400 Views, 0 Comments

A Mortgage Term Rate Breakdown for Military PersonnelMortgage term rates are not clear-cut, and there are many factors considered when a mortgage product lender offers specified terms and rates. Military personnel may find themselves with more options, as lower mortgage term rates could be tied to unique mortgages such as VA loans. That being said, not everyone may qualify for the lowest rates.

Is it better to take out a conventional loan or a VA loan? What is best with a sizeable down payment? Speaking to a mortgage lender directly is helpful. However, the following information includes a few important takeaways when it comes to mortgage term rates as they apply to reservists, veterans, and their spouses.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan

356 Views, 0 Comments

VA Loans: Can You Save on Closing Costs?Reservists, veterans, and active duty military may be able to take advantage of a VA loan. A VA loan makes it financially easier for military personnel to own a home. Those who are looking to take out a VA loan should be aware that it will be necessary to cover closing costs separately. However, VA loan applicants have options, as it may not always be necessary for them to pay out-of-pocket for all the closing costs required.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

What Are Closing Costs?

VA loan closing costs or settlement charges are generally a significant expense. Closing costs on a home mortgage loan can run up to 5 percent of

1,032 Views, 0 Comments

Who Qualifies for Military Discounts?Many businesses in Colorado Springs and beyond offer discounts as a small thanks for the service the military provides the country. These discounts cut down one's bill by as much as 30%, depending on the company's rules. But who qualifies for military discounts, and how are they acquired? Everyone can learn the answer to these questions with this helpful guide.

Who Qualifies for Military Discounts?

Military discounts are only available to:

Active Duty

Active duty refers to all individuals who are currently serving in the military on a full-time basis. They may be a part of any branch, including:

  • Army
  • Navy
  • Marines
  • Coast Guard
  • Air Force

Eligibility for the military discounts starts after enlisting and continues through

11,266 Views, 0 Comments

Military Discounts on Auto Repair in Colorado SpringsMany Colorado Springs auto care centers offer military discounts to show their respect and appreciation for active and retired members of the military. The discounts may decrease the price of labor or even knock a percentage off the total bill. Finding these discounts can prove challenging, however. Thankfully, the following local auto shops offer discounts for military service members.

Trans Tech Auto & Truck

Address: Trans Tech Auto & Truck, 4285 North Nevada Avenue, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80907

For engine, transmission, and differential services, Trans Tech Auto & Truck is the premier place to go. This auto shop specializes in maintaining and repairing these parts on a wide variety of vehicles. Trans Tech Auto & Truck offers a generous

1,128 Views, 0 Comments

Car Insurance Companies With Military DiscountsNational, regional, and local companies honor U.S. military personnel, their families, and veterans in many ways. Insurance companies often provide military discounts for car insurance and other policies. When looking for car insurance with military discounts in Colorado Springs, consider the following companies.

USAA

USAA (United Services Automobile Association) has served the military community and their families since 1922. USAA offers military discounts for car insurance that may include but are not limited to:

  • Military installation discounts: save up to 15 percent when the vehicle is garaged on base
  • Vehicle storage discounts: up to 60-percent discount when storing an insured car
  • Accident forgiveness
  • Bundling options with
8,314 Views, 0 Comments