VA vs FHA: Which is Better for Woodland Park Homebuyers?

Colorado Veterans interested in purchasing a home in Woodland Park, CO have the ability to choose between two federally insured programs.

The FHA (Federal Housing Administration) and VA mortgage programs are very similar, but each offers its own unique benefits.  The goal of both FHA & VA mortgage programs is to make affordable home loans accessible to American home buyers.

What is an FHA Loan?

FHA was created in 1934 as a direct result of the Great Depression, one of America’s worst economic downturns. During this time, nearly two million construction workers were laid off. Only four out of ten people owned their own home and for those that did, mortgage loan terms were outrageous. Consider this, if you were fortunate enough to own a home you would have been required to put a minimum of 50 percent down and the interest rate would have ballooned in 3 to 5 years.

There was no such thing as a 30 Year Fixed rate during this time. Then along came FHA whose sole mission was and still is to encourage home ownership.

Why Use an FHA Loan?

• Low down payment

• Federal security, which can mean better terms from lenders

• Flexible terms

• Adjustable payment options

• Great interest rates and affordable payments

• Easy refinance options for existing loans

The VA home loan on the other hand is designed for qualified veterans as part of the benefits extended after serving in the military. There are certain VA requirements that the veteran must meet in order to qualify:

• You must currently be serving in the United States military or be an honorably discharged veteran to qualify. Surviving spouses and members
of the Reserves or National Guard can also obtain VA Loans.  See the VA General Rules for Eligibility for further information.

• The lender will require a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) which serves as proof of your service and eligibility for a VA Loan. You must obtain a COE during the pre-qualification process.

The lender will review your credit history for any bankruptcies, tax liens, and collections that could have had a negative impact on your credit.  Typically lenders are looking at the last 12 months, but I will take longer to qualify with severe adverse credit and a poor credit history.

• You will need to provide proof a 2 year history of stable income and consistent employment.

• You must meet debt-to-income requirements as outlined by the Veterans home loan program.

• As a Veteran, you are required to maintain this home as your primary residence.  You will certify that you will be occupying the property.

Why Use Your VA Benefits?

There is no better loan for veterans with VA home loan benefits:

• No down payment loan

• Low fixed and adjustable interest rates

• Flexible credit guidelines

• Never a prepayment penalty

• Assistance and counseling during financial hardship

•Protection and guaranty of a government insured loan

Qualifying borrowers can benefit from either the VA mortgage or the FHA home loan program. Both are excellent options for first time or move up buyers.  With so many advantages being passed on through these government programs, now is definitely the time to take advantage of low interest rates and affordable home prices!

Don’t Forget!  Check out our FREE Top 20 Homebuyer Secrets that can save you thousands of dollars! Plus browse our Home Buying Resources section and fill-out a free no-obligation secure online application or call us in Woodland Park, Colorado at 719.687.2112 with any questions.

Bad credit or No credit? Check out our Credit Repair Program and get started on the path to homeownership today.

VA vs FHA: Which is Better for Woodland Park Homebuyers? was written by Rebekah Radice.