Getting a VA Mortgage can be an intimidating and confusing process, but it doesn’t need to be that way. There are a few things you can do to make the process simple, easy, and clearly understandable.

Be sure to ask about Prepayment Penalties, how long the rate is fixed for, what the closing costs are, what the APR is and what the underwriting process is like. Compare what you hear between 2-3 different loan specialists to get the most accurate information. There are varying levels of experience and knowledge within loan professionals so one Mortgage Planner might know considerably more than another. More importantly than asking how long the mortgage company has been in business, ask how long the Loan Officer has been in the industry and whether or not he is licensed. If he says he is licensed ask for his license number. If he is not licensed politely exit the call.

A. Will you show me your Loan offer in writing?

Always have them give you in writing what they will be doing for you. Ask for a Good Faith Estimate “GFE” and a Truth in Lending Statement “TIL.” They can also provide you with other reports that show the affect of closing costs on your rate and many other pieces of useful information. If they are not [spin]willing|able|happy|glad[/spin to provide you with all the figures in writing within 3 business days, DO NOT use them!

In the end, take responsibility over the loan process. Read the fine print. Nobody ever gets “screwed” on their loan if they actually read the closing documents to ensure that what they are getting is what they were promised. That bieng said, unless you have years of experience in the Real Estate Industry, you likely will not understand everything that is in the closing papers so ask your Escrow Officer and your Loan Officer about anything that you do not understand or looks questionable.

B. Be willing to take the extra time to have your loan specialist explain all the aspects of the Veterans Administration loan and how it works.

Most good VA Brokers are willing to take the time to explain all of the ins and outs of the loan process and of the features of the loan you are looking for. Unfortunately, many borrowers do not want to take the time out of their schedules to really understand their mortgage. Your mortgage is the largest debt you will ever incur, so you had better understand how it works.

C. Be able to provide all necessary documentation and information to a legitimate company.

Many borrowers are shy about explaining the reality of their situation whether it be unstable income, poor credit, lack of personal assets, etc. What they don’t realize is that the more honest and upfront a person is, the better chance that he will get approved for a loan. It is like going in to a surgeon and saying “Doc, I am really sick. You have to help me but I won’t tell you where it hurts or what my symptoms are.” There is no way that the Doctor can prescribe the proper treatment for that ailment without the right information. The same can be said of your debt manager (Loan Officer) in giving you the home loan that is best suited for you.

Don’t forget that the Veterans Administration also offers a(an) Refinance for a Lower Rate. Talk to a VA Mortgage Planner today to find out more.

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