If you’re a veteran, or are currently serving in the military, the thought of owning your own home might seem out of reach, especially given how much went into getting your finances a little less than perfect. The good news is that VA loan lenders take the credit background of military borrowers in mind, and work to overcome credit score complications that are common among veterans and service members. VA loans have special benefits that aren’t available with standard mortgages, including the ability to buy a home with no down payment and a more lenient credit score requirement, opening the door to homeownership for millions of Americans who might otherwise be locked out due to bad credit.
In this guide, we discuss how VA loan lenders work with low-credit borrowers, what the options are and how you can still find the right home loan even if your credit isn’t perfect.
Understanding VA Loans and Credit Requirements
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) doesn’t make home loans. Instead, it insures loans made by private lenders such as banks and mortgage companies. This VA backing lowers the lender’s risk, and the more favorable terms are given to the buyers. Not everyone will qualify even with low credit.
The VA doesn’t establish a minimum credit score, but most VA lenders are looking for at least a 580 to 620 score. That said, most lenders are flexible and will look at your overall financial picture. Things like regular income, clockwork job history, and a low debt-to-income ratio can balance out a score on the lower side.
Finding the Right VA Loan Lender for Bad Credit
Bad credit is not equal among lenders. Some have stringent underwriting guidelines, while others focus on helping borrowers with credit challenges. To improve your approval odds, you’ll want to partner with VA loan lenders for bad credit that are able to serve your needs and provide you with the guidance you need to achieve your goal.
Here’s what to look for when shopping for a lender:
- Experience with VA loans
- Flexible credit requirements
- Personalized customer service
- Transparent communication and low fees
One useful place to start is by working with lenders in our trusted network. If you’re looking to buy, build, or invest in, Veterans want lenders to treat them like more than just a number on an application, who bring equal to their credit score.
What If you’re a First-Time Buyer with Bad Credit?
As a first-time homebuyer, the home buying process can be scary, but not nearly as anxiety-fueled as it if you have a bad credit history. But never fear: first-time home buyer VA programs were designed with you in mind.
These tools are available through the following programs:
- Pre-approval assistance
- Credit counseling
- Low or no down payment
- Flexible underwriting
As a first-time buyer, your VA lender may also connect you with housing counselors or homeownership education programs to steer you toward success.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved
If you have a score in the 500s, you may still be eligible, but there are steps you can take to improve your chances:
- Pay off debt – Paying off your debt can bring up your score rapidly as it reduces your credit utilization.
- Avoid new credit inquiries – Do not apply for other loans or credit cards at this time.
- Correct inaccuracies on your credit report – Challenge any inaccuracies or outdated information.
- Demonstrate steady income – Stability in earnings and work history is a top priority for lenders.
Save for closing costs – Even with $0 down payment, there are still closing costs like appraisals and inspections.
What Kind of Homes Can You Buy with a VA Loan?
A VA lender can help you check out a variety of VA Loan Homes for Sale, such as single-family homes, townhouses, or approved VA-condos, as the property must meet VA Minimum Property Requirements in order to qualify.
These needs are for security, stability, and sanitary conditions in the home. If you are purchasing an older home or a fixer-upper, you’ll want to work with a lender and appraiser who know the VA’s rules to make it easy to follow them.
Can You Buy a Rental Property with Bad Credit Using a VA Loan?
They must be used to purchase a home that will be your primary residence, a rental, an investment property or a second home.
With bad credit, though, the property is required to meet VA occupancy and value rules and the lender requires strong income and compensating factors or rental history. It’s a great plan to start building wealth in real estate.
Want to Build Instead of Buy? VA Construction Loans Are an Option
Purchasing isn’t the only way to the land of being a homeowner. If you want to build your home, there is a VA Construction Loan even for borrowers with credit issues. Such loans let you finance both the land and the building process in one fell swoop, all backed by the VA.
It’s important to work with the right lender, as not all lenders provide VA construction loans. We can assist in connecting you with experts who know how to build, and who understand what’s covered under VA loan rules.
Work With a Realtor Who Understands VA Loans
To help buyers and sellers in their home-sales efforts, it’s wise to Look for a Realtor who is a VA Specialist. These are the real estate agents who know VA loans, credit flexibility, and the specific needs of military relocation.
They can help prevent you from considering homes that won’t pass VA muster, negotiate benefits and be sure your contract includes VA-friendly language to protect your earnest money and closing times.
Final Thoughts
Bad credit doesn’t mean the door is closed on homeownership. A VA loan for bad credit and bad credit VA home loan lenders take into account your individual situation. With VA loans for bad credit, or not so perfect credit, the lenders can work with you to try and get you a loan.
The trick is to have the right lender and support team that not only understand your goals but also have faith in your future. Whether you are purchasing your first home, building the home of your dreams, or looking to invest in a property, we are here to help you navigate the ins and outs of the VA loan process.