VA Loan Closing Costs: How Much You Require to Pay?

6 mins read Nov 12, 2024
Listen
Editor
Edited By

Megha Mulchandani

icon
Editor
Edited By

Megha Mulchandani

Editor, Houzeo
About

Megha M. is an adept content editor well-versed in the intricacies of American market dynamics and economic trends. In her free time, she excels as a versatile theatre artist and public speaker.

Find Megha Here
copy-link facebook twitter linkedin whatsapp


72% of buyers are worried about affording a home! The closing costs on a home can cost thousands of dollars. This financial burden frustrates buyers, making the dream of homeownership seem out of reach. However, options like VA loans can ease this burden by offering lower closing costs compared to other loans.

The average closing costs on a loan range between 2% to 5%. With a VA loan, you can pay closing costs as low as 1%. Additionally, lenders can cover some of the unavoidable VA loan closing costs that conventional loans require.

You can even get a mortgage preapproval to determine your loan amount and potential closing costs. Before you commence your home-buying journey, calculate all the associated costs now!

Get Pre Approved for a VA Loan🏡

Select Your Loan Type

  • new-purchase active New Home Purchase
  • new-purchase active Mortgage Refinance
  • new-purchase active Cash-out Refinance
Please select a Loan Type first
⚡With Houzeo, you can start your home-buying journey in less than 2 minutes.

What Are VA Loan Closing Costs?

VA loan closing costs is an expense that you need to pay while the closing of a VA loan. These costs include expenses related to ownership transfer and are separate from loan amount.

Moreover, your closing costs fees depends on the lender policy, loan requirements (loan amount, interest rate, and property type) and location. Some lenders might offer lower fees or may even cover some certain costs, while others may have higher fees but offer other benefits. 

To find the best deal, you can compare loan estimates and find lenders nearby who offer competitive terms.

How Much Are VA Loan Closing Costs?

Typically, closing costs on a VA loan is 1% to 6%. For instance, if your mortgage amount is $200,000, then your closing costs might range from $2,000 to $12,000 on a VA loan. Here are closing costs affiliated with VA loans: 

  • Funding Fee: The VA funding fee depends on the down payment, type of loan, and whether you are a first-time VA loan applicant. 
  • Origination Fee: Your lender asks you to pay around 1% to process the loan application. 
  • Appraisal Fee: It depends on the size and location of your property. VA loans require an appraisal to assess the property value.
  • Title Fee: It includes title insurance that protects you from property ownership disputes. Fees depend on the property value. 
  • Recording Fee: You have to pay these fees to the local government. It involves the government fees related to the purchase of property. 
  • Discount Point: You can pay mortgage points to the lender at closing to lower your interest rates.            
  • Home Inspection Fee: It includes the fees related to determine the boundaries and physical features of your property. 
  • Credit Report Fee: Lenders usually charge this fee to obtain your credit report. 

It’s advisable to get a loan estimate from your VA loan lender. It will help you understand all the expected closing costs. Also, VA loans have rules on what lender fees you must pay such as the origination fee.

How to Pay Closing Costs on a VA Loan?

Unlike other types of home loans, VA loans do not require you to pay the full closing costs. You can use these ways to pay of your closing costs: 

  • Seller Concessions: You can ask the seller to pay some seller concession or all amount of closing costs. Generally, this is negotiated in the purchase offer. 
  • Roll Into the Loan Amount: VA loan allows you to roll closing costs into your principal amount. You will pay it with your interest rates and reduce upfront costs. 

However, you should discuss these options with your lender and figure out the best way to pay. 

How Are VA Loan Closing Costs Different From Other Loans?

Here’s how VA loan closing costs differ from other loans:

VA Loans Other Loans
EligibilityVeterans, active-duty military, certain spousesOpen to all qualified borrowers. However, some loans are just catered for first-time homebuyers.
Down PaymentNo down payment required.Typically 3%–20%
Non-Allowable FeesYou don’t have to pay attorney fees, settlement fees and broker fees with a VA loan. Other loans require you to pay non-allowable fees. 
Insurance PremiumsYou don’t require a private mortgage insurance with a VA loanYou will have to pay private mortgage insurance if your down payment is less than 20%. 

VA loans are flexible and facilitate savings on closing costs, accessible by eligible veterans. 

Who Pays Closing Costs on a VA Loan?

On a VA loan, closing costs can be paid by either seller or buyer. However, there are specific limitations on who can pay which costs.

  • Buyer: As a buyer you are responsible for certain closing costs like VA funding fee, title insurance, home inspection costs, and lender fees.  
  • Seller: The seller can also pay up to 4% of your closing costs, which covers a large portion and is accessible for you to purchase. 
  • Lender: Lenders may offer a credit to help pay closing costs, but this is typically compensated with higher interest rate and increased principal amount. 

Bottom Line

VA loan closing costs are often lower compared to conventional loans. You need less upfront cash, because there are limits on what veterans can be charged. Not only this, you can even negotiate with your lender to reduce your closing costs.

While there are fees covered by VA, there are still costs like funding fees that you might need to pay. However, you can roll such amounts in your loan. This also eliminates the immediate impact of higher down payment.

For a streamlined home-buying experience with transparent costs, use Houzeo. Our platform helps you find homes and navigate the closing process with ease. Start now to find your dream home.

Find Your New Home With Houzeo

With thousands of property listings, Houzeo.com is one of the biggest property listing sites in the US. Find condos, townhouses, co-ops, and other types of homes for sale on Houzeo.

Find Your Dream Home 🏡

View 780,395 Homes For Sale in the US

Where do you want to live?

Please enter valid address

» Need More Clarity? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays closing costs on a VA loan?

Closing costs are paid by the seller, buyer or lender . However, in some cases, buyers, sellers and lenders can contribute some amounts for the closing costs. Overall, the burden of closing is not solely on the buyer or borrower.

How many times can you use a VA loan?

No maximum limits. VA loans allow you to get a mortgage even after your 9th loan. However, the interest rates depend on the type of property you buy.

Can you refinance a VA loan?

Yes, you can refinance a VA loan using a VA streamline refinance, also known as Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRL). It allows you to refinance with minimum document requirements and lower interest rate.

Cross

Save $20

On any Houzeo plan

Use Coupon Code:

Copied
4.9 out of 5 Star Rated Houzeo Concierge

Need help? Call us on

(844) 448-0110