VA loans have helped 24 million Veterans achieve the dream of homeownership. These loans offer reduced interest rates and the processing fee can go as low as 0.5%. Homebuyers can also benefit from VA loans as they are assumable.
You can take over an existing VA loan from the homeowner during a sale. A VA assumable loan can be of great help to you if you wish to purchase a home with affordable financing terms. Therefore, get a mortgage preapproval to determine your loan amount.
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💰 Are VA Loans Assumable?
- You must meet the credit and income requirements defined by the Veterans Affairs (VA) and the lender.
- VA loan assumption is only possible if you agree to use the house as a primary residence.
- Veteran Affairs has higher loan limits in high-cost counties that can be as high as to $1,149,825.
What is a VA Assumable Loan?
A VA assumable loan is also backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It allows you to take over an existing VA loan from the seller. Additionally, it provides several advantages, including adjustable interest rates, flexible loan terms, and other beneficial terms.
Who Is Eligible to Assume a VA Loan?
Only Veterans can take out a VA loan. However, if you are assuming a VA loan, you don’t need any military experience. You must provide your financial documents and meet the lender’s requirements.
Requirements for Assumable VA Loan
If you’re a potential buyer and want to assume a VA loan. You also need to meet some specific requirements.
- Minimum Credit Score: There is no specific minimum credit score set. However, individual lenders set their credit score requirements. The minimum credit score is usually 620.
- Maximum Debt-to-Income Ratio: Veteran Affairs does not set the maximum debt-to-income ratio for an assumable VA loan. However, having a debt-to-income ratio of 41% is preferable.
- Residual Income: The VA sets minimum residual income based on different factors such as location, family size, and loan amount. Before opting for an assumable loan, ensure you have sufficient residual income.
How to Assume a VA Loan?
Assuming a VA loan is easier than getting a new one. Just inform the seller and the VA lender and follow these simple steps:
Begin the Application Process
The assigned VA lender will guide you through the documentation process. Once you’ve provided all the necessary paperwork, they will conduct a credit and income assessment. It will also help them verify your ability to repay the assumed loan.
Approval and Closing Process
A VA lender will review all the information provided to determine if the borrower is approved for the assumption. Upon approval, you and the seller, engaged in assuming the VA loan, will need to complete the necessary closing paperwork.
Obtain a Release of Liability from the VA
Once the VA loan application is accepted. It is crucial to get a release from the Department of Veterans Affairs. It ensures that the home seller is no longer responsible for paying the loan.
Pros and Cons of VA Loan Assumption
Some of the following pros and cons for VA loan assumptions are:
Pros of Assuming a VA Loan
- Low Mortgage Rate: Nearly 90% of VA homeowners have a mortgage rate below 5%.
- Low Processing Fee: The other money-saving benefit of a VA loan assumption is that it comes with a 0.5% processing fee.
- Easy Loan Process: VA loan assumption skips the procedure of obtaining a new loan, making it a faster and simpler way to get a home.
Cons of Assuming a VA Loan
- Funding Fee: In some cases, you need to pay a funding fee to the VA. It will be similar to the new VA loan, and this fee can add to the overall cost of assuming the loan.
- VA Approval Required: Assuming a VA loan requires approval from Veterans Affairs, meeting eligibility requirements, and verification of creditworthiness by your lender.
- Property Value Changes: After assuming a VA loan, if the property price has increased since the original loan. You need to pay the difference between the loan balance and the current property value.
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Impacts on VA Loan Entitlement
The VA loan entitlement is usually 25% of the loan amount or up to the conforming loan limit. It is a benefit that helps veterans and eligible military members buy a home. If you are unable to pay back the loan, the government will give this sum to a lender.
Bottom Line
Thinking of buying a new home? You can consider taking over a VA loan from a seller. It gives you lower interest rates and saves your money. You can enjoy your journey to your dream home with less financial stress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are VA loans assumable?
Yes, VA loans are assumable, allowing eligible buyers to take over the existing loan with potential benefits like lower interest rates and no down payment requirements.
How many times can I use a VA loan?
There is no limit to using the VA loan. You can use a VA loan once, twice, or even three times, depending on your remaining VA entitlement.
Can non-military individuals assume a VA loan?
Yes, non-military borrowers can assume a VA loan by passing a credit check and getting approval from their current
home lender.
What are the advantages of a VA loan assumption?
VA-assumable loans are much more beneficial as compared to primary loans. VA loans offer lower interest rates, no
down payments, and a quick process to obtain a loan.
