There seems to be a rumor flying around that you can't use a VA loan to buy a foreclosure property. THIS IS NOT TRUE! Buyers all over Northern Virginia are successfully closing on a foreclosure property using their VA loans. It is funny how rumor becomes fact by just one person saying they didn't get the house they wanted because the VA required repairs.

If you want to by a property that falls into the "wreck" category then you might be better off with an FHA 203 (k) loan so you can get the money you need for repairs in your loan but you can use a VA loan for a foreclosure which is decent condition. The biggest issue my buyers have come up against is that VA does require that the electricity be turned on for the appraisal and I always make sure that the home has the water on as well.

VA provides one of the few 100% financing programs currently available in a declining market area.  Conventional VA loan limits are still set at $625,500 and in today's Northern Virginia market that limit goes a long way.   VA does provide jumbo loans for eligible active duty and retired personnel who may be looking for something just a bit bigger.

Not sure whether you are eligible for a VA loan?

VA Loan Eligibility Requirements

Need to request your VA Certificate of Eligibility?

VA Form 26-1880

In 2008 I had multiple buyers purchase a home in foreclosure using VA loans.  From a condominiumin Belmont Bay, a townhouse in Lake Ridge and a detached home in Springfield the buyers were able to purchase the home they wanted and get to closing without delay. 

If you are thinking about using your VA loan to buy your next home in Northern Virginia give me a call.  We can meet to talk about the options and opportunities in today's real estate market.  Take a sneak peak at some popular Fort Belvoir neighborhoods and read more details on Military Relocation before you start your on-line home search.   I've walked in your shoes from the Far East to Europe and know what it is like to make a military move. I work with multiple lenders who understand today's Northern Virginia market and are successful in getting VA loans to closing.