What are the steps to getting a VA home loan?

The VA loan process includes eligibility check, pre-approval, house hunting, making an offer, underwriting with appraisal, and closing.

Do VA loans require an appraisal?

Yes. A VA-certified appraiser evaluates the home to ensure it meets VA’s Minimum Property Requirements and is fairly priced.

Can closing costs be included in a VA loan?

Some closing costs can be rolled into the loan or paid by the seller as concessions. Your lender will help structure it.

VA Loan Process Overview – From Pre-Approval to Closing

The VA home loan process shares many of the same steps as a traditional mortgage, but it has major advantages, such as no down payment, no PMI, and competitive interest rates for eligible Veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through each stage of the VA loan journey, so you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to move forward with confidence.

Step 1: VA Loan Eligibility and Pre-Approval

Discuss your homeownership goals and budget with a VA-approved lender.
Submit basic documents including income, employment, and credit history.
Your lender will retrieve your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA.

Once you’re pre-approved, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter to strengthen your offers when shopping for a home.

Step 2: Finding Your Home

Work with a real estate agent experienced with VA loans to identify eligible properties.
Eligible homes include single-family houses, townhomes, condos, manufactured homes, and multi-unit properties (up to 4 units).
The property must be your primary residence and meet the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs).
Homes needing repairs may still qualify, but will require additional documentation and inspections.

Step 3: Making an Offer

Work with your agent to determine a competitive offer price.
Include seller-paid concessions for closing costs if applicable.
Request repairs or credits based on the inspection results.
Set timelines for the appraisal, inspections, and closing.
Include necessary contingencies such as financing, appraisal, and inspections.

Your agent will help you negotiate the best deal and ensure the terms meet VA loan guidelines.

Step 4: Loan Underwriting and VA Appraisal

Your lender collects final documents, including pay stubs, tax returns, and asset statements.
Address any underwriter questions or document requests, such as explanations for large deposits or gaps in employment.
A VA-certified appraiser will evaluate the property for market value and condition.
The appraisal must confirm that the property meets the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements.

The appraisal fee is typically paid upfront, but your lender may allow it to be included in closing costs.

Step 5: Final Approval and Closing

Once underwriting is complete and conditions are met, the loan is cleared to close.
You’ll receive a Closing Disclosure summarizing final loan terms and costs.
Compare this to your original Loan Estimate and ask questions if needed.
Complete a final walk-through of the home before signing.
At closing, sign your documents and get the keys to your new home.

Need Help Navigating the VA Loan Process?

I’m here to walk you through every step — from checking eligibility to closing day. With 19+ years of mortgage experience and 50+ five-star Google reviews, I’ve helped hundreds of military families become homeowners with confidence and clarity.