If you meet the qualifications, a Department of Veteran?s Affairs loan may be the best choice when it comes to your Houston mortgage.? These loans are available for veterans, active duty, reservists/National Guard reservists, and surviving spouses of those who died in or as a result of service.? This process is similar in nature to that of applying and qualifying for a traditional loan ? with a few variances.? The process includes:

1. Talk to a Houston mortgage professional. No matter what type of loan you are interested in, they can help you prepare the materials you will need to proceed in the journey to homeownership.? This would be a good time to get pre-qualified for a loan.
2. With or without the help of a real estate agent, find the house that is right for you.? This is the fun part!? Be sure to compile a list of wants and needs to help the process go smoothly.
3. After finding your dream home, now is the time to provide documentation relating to your latest period of service or a Certificate of Eligibility.
4. Get the property appraised.? A VA Loan must be for equal or lesser value than the amount the home appraises for. Your mortgage lender will arrange for the property to have a VA appraisal. If the appraisal determines that the negotiated price is of a reasonable value, you move to the next step.
5. As long as you have all of your ducks in a row with no changes from the pre-qualification period, you should get the green light to move forward with your loan.
6. The final step in the process is to get a home inspection.? If the final report is favorable, it?s time to move forward and schedule a closing date!

In reality, VA loans are not all that different from a traditional loan, but some military personnel may find better rates and simpler qualification guidelines.? If you are interested in finding a new home with the assistance of a VA loan, HomeWay Mortgage.? Our dedicated team is available to make the transition to homeownership an easy one!