How To Qualify For A VA Loan With A Low Credit Score

A low credit score can make it difficult to qualify for a traditional home loan. But, you may be able to qualify for a VA mortgage loan with a bad credit history.

Veterans and active military members can take advantage of the VA Home Loan program when buying a home. This program is run by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. This program can help veterans and active service members purchase a home. It may even help those with a low credit score, poor credit, or a history of late payments.

The VA mortgage offers a great benefit. VA home loan benefits are designed to help veterans and active duty service members purchase a home with no down payment.

It also includes relaxed approval guidelines compared to other loan programs. If you qualify, you may have an easier time getting a VA home loan than a traditional home loan even when you have a lower credit score.

What are Credit Scoring Models?

Credit scores are based on a calculation or “model” of your credit history that gives a score typically from 300-850. A high score means the model considers your credit history good or excellent. A low score means the credit scoring model considers your credit fair or poor.

Credit scoring models are based on calculations of information in your credit history.

Some lenders, such as HomePromise, look at a comprehensive overview of your finances. This helps you qualify for a VA loan, even if other lenders have denied you. This may help those with a low credit score qualify for a VA loan.

What is a Low Credit Score?

A low credit score is generally considered to be any score below 640. VA Lenders typically use this number to determine whether an individual is eligible for a VA loan. Fact is the VA has no minimum credit score requirements. This limitation is set in place by lenders.

Credit scores are used for other kinds of loans or even credit cards. It is important to pay attention to your credit score and take steps to improve it, if possible.

You should know that the VA does not provide funds for loans, the VA only guarantees VA loans. Veterans will need to find a lender that participates in the VA home loan program.

Banks and other lenders participate in the VA loan program but many of them don’t allow credit scores under 640.

Can I Improve My Credit Score?

Yes! The key is knowing what to change. With the right advice, you can definitely improve your credit score. It’s always good to consult with a VA loan expert to understand your options and the best steps to take. The VA home loan experts at HomePromise may be able to help at 800-720-0250.

Is it Hard to Qualify with a Low Credit Score?

The VA home loan program offers many advantages. Credit requirements are more relaxed, making homeownership possible for veterans with low credit scores. Other benefits include lower closing costs and no down payment options. 

A low credit score may not be a barrier for all veterans who want to purchase a home. Some veterans and active duty service members may qualify for a VA loan even with a low credit score.

Note that there are usually additional documentation requirements for a low credit score VA loan that are used to strengthen your application.

What Documents Do I Need to Qualify for a Low Credit Score VA Loan?

One of the key requirements is a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding any late payments on your credit report. This letter should address all types of credit problems on your credit report.

Are VA Loans Always Better Than Conventional Loans for Veterans?

Most of the time, the VA loan program is better than conventional loans. The VA home loan program offers more flexible credit requirements over traditional conventional loan programs. Even veterans with a low credit score may be able to qualify.

One of the biggest advantages of the VA home loan program is that it does not require a minimum credit score. The VA evaluates your credit history as a whole. Other important factors they consider include assets, income, debt-to-income ratio, and employment history. 

In addition to more flexible credit requirements, the VA home loan program also offers a number of other benefits, including: 

• No monthly private mortgage insurance (PMI) required
• Competitive interest rates
• The ability to roll closing costs into the loan
• No prepayment penalty
• No down payment

The VA home loan program is a great option for veterans and active service members with low credit scores. It can be used to purchase or refinance a home.

While you will still need to meet certain requirements, the program can help you achieve your dream of homeownership.

Call 800-720-0250 now to talk to one of our VA lending experts and see if you qualify.

Why is Pre-Qualifying for a VA Loan Important?

Pre-qualifying for a VA loan depends on many factors that a VA loan expert will review with you. A full pre-qualification by a VA lender looks at your credit, income, assets, and characteristics of the home you want to buy. For example, VA lenders have to review your income to be sure it is stable and reliable.

VA applicants must also meet certain occupancy requirements. In other words, the home you are buying or refinancing with a VA loan must be your primary residence. 

The house you want to buy or refinance must meet VA minimum property standards. This will be checked by a VA appraiser during an inspection. 

The VA appraiser will look for the following kinds of defective conditions:

• Defective construction
• Poor workmanship
• Evidence of continuing settlement
• Excessive dampness
• Leakage
• Decay
• Termites

There are other potential problem areas of a home that the appraiser must note on the appraisal report. But, the best way to get a full review of any problems with a home is through a home inspection.

You also need to provide proof of military service in order to be eligible for your VA home loan benefits. You are eligible for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) if you have served in the military for the required amount of time. This certificate proves that you can apply for a VA loan.

Call a HomePromise VA loan expert at 800-720-0250 and we will get your COE quickly through the VA lender portal.

Veterans may qualify for a HomePromise VA loan. With an expert’s help, a bit of work, and determination, you can achieve your dream of homeownership.

How To Get Pre-Qualified for a VA Loan with HomePromise?

Pre-qualifying for a VA loan with HomePromise requires some basic steps. 

First, you should gather all the necessary asset documents and paperwork needed to apply for the loan. Assets statements include bank statements and retirement account statements. 

Next, you should get together proof of employment, including two years of tax returns and W-2 forms. If you’re self-employed you should also find the last two years of your business tax returns. If you receive Social Security or pension income you should gather your most recent pension statement and annual Social Security statement.

Once you have this information ready, it’s time to call 800-720-0250 and speak to a VA Home Loan Expert.