VA Home Loan Myths and Facts: What Every Buyer Needs to Know

If you're a veteran or active-duty military member considering buying a home, chances are you’ve heard some rumors about VA loans. Misconceptions about VA home loan myths can make buyers and sellers hesitant—but knowing the real facts about VA loans helps everyone make smarter decisions.

Below are five major VA mortgage myths, each paired with the accurate VA loan facts you need to know:

VA Loan Myth #1: VA Loans Take Too Long to Close
There’s a common belief that using a VA loan to buy a home means endless paperwork and slow closings.

VA Loan Fact: VA home loans close at nearly the same speed as FHA or conventional loans when working with a lender experienced in VA loans. Most delays are due to lender familiarity, not VA guidelines themselves.

VA Loan Myth #2: VA Loan Eligibility Is Only Good Once
Some buyers think their VA loan benefit is a “use it and lose it” situation.

VA Loan Fact: Veterans and eligible service members can use their VA loan benefit multiple times. You may even be able to have more than one VA loan active, depending on your entitlement.

VA Loan Myth #3: VA Home Loans Are Only For First-Time Buyers
This myth leads some people to believe VA loans are only offered to those purchasing their first home.

VA Loan Fact: You can use a VA home loan to buy a home no matter how many times you’ve purchased property before. Your VA home loan benefit remains available as long as you meet VA and lender guidelines.

VA Loan Myth #4: VA Home Loans Have No Costs
Some think that using a VA loan means zero out-of-pocket costs.

VA Loan Fact: While VA loans require no down payment in most cases, there are still closing costs, prepaid expenses, and a VA funding fee (which can be rolled into the mortgage). Sellers can pay some or all of these costs, meaning out-of-pocket expenses can be very low.

VA Loan Myth #5: VA Loan Appraisals Are Impossible to Pass
Many sellers and agents worry VA appraisals will kill their deals.

VA Loan Fact: VA loan appraisals simply ensure homes are safe, sound, and sanitary. The standards are meant to protect the buyer and generally align with conventional requirements. Most well-maintained homes will pass the VA appraisal process with ease.


Focus on facts and don’t let VA home loan myths block your path to homeownership. If you’re ready to use a VA loan to buy a home or want help clearing up any lingering questions, reach out any time—there’s no substitute for working with a VA-certified real estate specialist.