Updated November 4, 2026
The short version
Buying with a VA loan follows the same path as most home purchases, with a few VA-specific steps. This guide follows the order VA lays out in its Buyer's Guide. Details can change, so confirm anything important on VA.gov and with your lender.
1. Get your Certificate of Eligibility
The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) shows lenders that you qualify and how much entitlement you have left. VA says you can request it through your lender, online at VA.gov, or by mail with VA Form 26-1880.
What you submit depends on your status. Veterans typically provide a DD214. Active-duty members provide a statement of service signed by their command. Guard and Reserve members and surviving spouses have their own paperwork lists on VA's COE page.
2. Check your finances
VA does not set a minimum credit score, but most lenders do. Look at your credit, income, monthly debts and savings. Remember that on a purchase, only the VA funding fee can be added to the loan. Other closing costs must be paid at closing, by you or by someone else allowed to pay them, such as the seller.
3. Choose a lender and compare
VA does not make the loan or set your loan amount. Your lender does. Request a Loan Estimate from more than one lender and compare rates, fees and service. VA's own guide suggests this step before house hunting.
4. Choose an agent and shop
Pick an agent who understands VA contracts. In Tampa Bay, make sure you talk about the things that shape VA deals locally: flood zones, condo approval, and the age of the home, since older homes may have more repair items at appraisal. You can interview several agents.
5. Make an offer with the VA escape clause
VA says the contract must include its escape clause. It lets you back out without losing your earnest money if the price exceeds VA's reasonable value. Your lender must confirm the clause is in the contract before closing.
6. VA appraisal and inspection
Once the contract is signed, your lender orders the appraisal from a VA-approved appraiser, and you pay for it. The Notice of Value lists the estimated value and any repairs needed to meet minimum property requirements. An appraisal is not an inspection. VA recommends a home inspection, which is optional. See our guide on the VA appraisal.
7. Review the Closing Disclosure and close
Your lender must provide the Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing. Review it line by line, bring any required funds, and sign.
A word about entitlement and loan size
VA says that with full entitlement there is no VA limit on how much you can borrow, and no down payment is required as long as the price does not exceed the appraised value. If you have used entitlement before and not restored it, county loan limits can apply and a down payment may be needed. Your lender can calculate this from your COE.
Common surprises to plan for
- Cash at closing: Even with no down payment, you will have closing costs, prepaids and the appraisal fee. Only the funding fee can be rolled into the loan on a purchase. Sellers can help with some costs within VA's rules.
- Appraisal repairs: The Notice of Value may list repairs. Build time into your contract for them.
- Flood insurance: If the home is in a FEMA high-risk flood zone, a federally backed loan generally requires flood insurance. Get a quote before you commit.
- Occupancy: VA says you must live in the home you buy with the loan.
None of these should scare you off. They are simply things to ask about up front.
What VA does and does not do
VA's Buyer's Guide is clear on this. VA does not set your loan amount, since your lender does. VA does not require a minimum credit score, though most lenders have one. VA does not inspect the home, and its appraisers are not VA employees. What VA does do is guarantee part of the loan, which is what allows lenders to offer the terms they do.
Next step
When you are ready, we can introduce you to agents who work with VA buyers. It is free and you can choose any agent.
Disclosure: TheBayPros' owner is related to Krystal Crichlow (eXp Realty), who may be among the agents introduced to you. You can choose any agent you like. We are not a lender and do not make loans.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the COE take?
It varies. Some lenders can get it quickly through VA's online system, while mail requests usually take longer, according to VA.
Can I use my VA loan more than once?
VA says the benefit can be used more than once. Whether you have full or remaining entitlement affects down payment and limits, so ask your lender to review your COE.
Is a home inspection required?
VA says it is optional but recommends one, since the VA appraisal is not an inspection.