Easy to Understand Real Estate

Understanding VA Loan Requirements for First-Time Home Buyers in 2026

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Are you a veteran and a first-time home buyer looking to purchase a home using a VA loan in the 2026 housing market? This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the latest VA loan requirements for 2026, including credit score necessities, employment duration, and down payment details. We delve into the pros and cons of VA loans and guide you through basic VA calculations concerning Mortgage Insurance.

VA Loan Requirements:

  • Active Duty or served 90 continuous days, meeting length of service requirements (generally 90 days in wartime and 181 days in peacetime).
  • Completed 90 days of active duty or 6 creditable years in selected reserve or national guard.
  • Surviving spouse of a veteran who died while in service or from a service-related disability and has not remarried.
  • FICO® score of at least 580 (exceptions may apply but come with a cost).
  • No down payment is required.
  • Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) is not required on VA loans.
  • Debt-to-Income Ratio should be less than 41%, although higher ratios may be possible.
  • Condos must be VA approved.
  • The home must be the borrower's primary residence.
  • Steady income and proof of employment are necessary.

    • For more detailed information, check your VA eligibility at VA Eligibility and view the VA Approved Condo List.


    00:01:00: Introduction to VA loans and their importance for veterans.
    00:05:30: Detailed explanation of the 2026 VA loan requirements.
    00:15:00: Pros and cons of using a VA loan for home purchases.
    00:25:00: Basic VA calculations and Mortgage Insurance information.

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    See show notes: https://inlet.fm/easy-to-understand-real-estate/episodes/69935b94f8e672bab96d3738

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    Easy to Understand Real EstateBy Jeb Smith