San Antonio's VA Loan
Specialist
The VA loan is the best home loan program ever created. $0 down, no monthly mortgage insurance, competitive rates. If you've served, you've earned it — let's use it.
Why the VA Loan Wins Every Time
No other loan program comes close. Here's what makes the VA loan the most powerful home buying benefit available.
Buy with zero money down. No savings required for the down payment.
No monthly mortgage insurance ever. Saves $150–400/month vs FHA.
First-use fee rolled into the loan. Waived for disability-rated veterans.
Full entitlement means no cap on purchase price for qualified buyers.
VA loans typically carry lower interest rates than conventional loans.
Use your VA benefit multiple times throughout your life.
VA Loan vs Conventional: The Real Numbers
On a $350,000 home with 5% down. The difference is hundreds per month.
| Item | VA Loan | Conventional (5% down) |
|---|---|---|
| Down Payment | $0 | $17,500 |
| Monthly PMI / MI | None | ~$175/mo |
| Upfront Fee | 2.15% (rolled in) | None |
| Min Credit Score | Flexible (620 typical) | 620+ |
| Income Limits | None | None |
| Loan Limit | None (full entitlement) | $806,500 conforming |
| Property Type | Primary residence | Primary, second home, investment |
* Example figures. Actual rates and payments vary by credit score, loan amount, and market conditions.
Who Qualifies for a VA Loan?
VA eligibility is based on your service history. The following groups are generally eligible, though specific requirements vary. I'll pull your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) electronically during pre-approval — it takes minutes.
How the VA Loan Process Works
From application to keys — a clear, 6-step walkthrough.
Get Pre-Approved
Submit your application. I pull your COE, verify income, review credit, and issue a pre-approval letter within 1–3 business days.
Find Your Home
Shop with confidence knowing exactly what you qualify for and that your VA loan will be accepted. I'll recommend agents who know the VA process.
Make an Offer
Your pre-approval letter shows sellers you're serious. In San Antonio, VA offers are widely accepted and respected.
VA Appraisal
A VA-assigned appraiser confirms the home's value and meets VA Minimum Property Requirements. Typically takes 7–14 days.
Underwriting
Your full file is reviewed. I manage the process and respond to any conditions promptly to keep your timeline on track.
Close & Get Your Keys
Sign your documents, receive your keys, and move in. Typical timeline from offer to closing: 30–45 days.
Common VA Loan Questions
Most borrowers pay a one-time VA funding fee of 2.15% (first use) or 3.3% (subsequent use) of the loan amount, which is typically rolled into the loan. However, veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 10% or higher are completely exempt from the funding fee. Active duty service members who have received the Purple Heart are also exempt.
Yes, the VA loan benefit is reusable. You can use it again after paying off your previous VA loan, or even simultaneously if you have remaining entitlement. Many veterans in San Antonio have used their VA benefit two or three times as they've upgraded or relocated.
The VA itself doesn't set a minimum credit score. Most lenders, including Efinity Mortgage, typically look for a 620+ score, though exceptions exist based on the full picture of your file. In practice, VA guidelines are more flexible than conventional loans, and I'll review your specific situation during pre-approval.
VA loans are for primary residences only — you must intend to live in the home. You can purchase single-family homes, condos (VA-approved), townhomes, and multi-family properties up to 4 units (you must occupy one unit). The property must meet VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs), which ensure the home is safe, sound, and sanitary.
I can pull your COE for you electronically in most cases directly through VA's system during the pre-approval process. You can also request it yourself at VA.gov. If you have your DD-214 (discharge document), that's the primary document we'll need.
San Antonio is one of the strongest VA loan markets in the country, home to Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston, Lackland AFB, and Randolph AFB. Many sellers here are very familiar with VA loans and accept them readily. The appraisal process (VA appraisal vs conventional) can take a few extra days, but our team manages this timeline closely.
Ready to Use Your VA Benefit?
A 10-minute call is all it takes to confirm your eligibility and figure out your options. No cost, no obligation.