The VA guaranty is not an automatic approval. You still need a COE and a lender who will underwrite occupancy, residual income, and the property. This guide does not score you and does not pull a consumer report.
Who it is usually for.
Eligible veterans, some active duty, and surviving spouses who qualify under VA rules.
What to have in hand.
- COE (or DD-214 to request one)
- Purchase contract or refinance package
- Income documentation the lender asks for
Moves.
- Request a Certificate of Eligibility on VA.gov.
- Interview more than one VA-approved lender.
- Do not skip occupancy and residual-income questions.
Timing hint: COE can be same-week; the underwrite is the longer clock.