Veterans can use a VA Home Improvement Loan to improve an existing home. Many veterans are unaware of this awesome opportunity. These type of loans are guaranteed by the Federal Government to lenders who offer home upgrade financing. This gives veterans a chance to upgrade their current home.
This is really not a loan but a loan guaranty process. Why is that? Since the VA is really not a lender or a bank, they do not do the loans. But they do guaranty full repayment of the loan. The cool thing about this is it reduces the risk. Thus the lending institution can offer more reasonable rates.
Consider the advantages of a VA home improvement loan:
A cash down payment is not required
No pre-payment penalties
Veterans are sure to get better mortgage rates
Easier qualification requirement than trying to do this with a conventional loan
Increase the energy-efficiency of the home
Here is a list of those energy-efficient home upgrades that can be covered by a VA Home Improvement Loan:
Upgrading your heating and cooling systems to higher energy-efficient systems
Improving the insulation or updating the caulking
Improved storm windows and doors
Energy-efficient thermostats
There are some restrictions though. If you have to borrow more than $3,000, you will have to prove that the improvements will reduce your utility bills. You are permitted to borrow up to $6,000 without an appraisal of your home value. If you only need $3,000 or less, you only have to provide the lender with the receipts of your improvements.
You can also use a VA Home Improvement Loan for other improvements such as new windows, new doors, and a new roof are all things that can be paid for with a VA loan. Other updates you can use this type of loan for is updating plumbing and related fixtures, perhaps you want to add a garage, or other remodeling projects (like bathroom or kitchen remodeling). But you cannot borrow more than 90% of the home's available equity. So you need to be aware of how much equity you have available in your home.
One advantage with this type of the VA loans is you can finance the upgrades for up to 15 years. You also can qualify for more than one home improvement loan. That makes it worth investigating!
Remember, every loan requires good credit. Make sure your credit is in good shape before you try to qualify for this home improvement loan. You will also need to find a lender who specializes in VA loans.
The good news is all of these type of repairs increases the equity in your home. That is like putting money in your pocket! Think about it, the Veterans Administration wants you to have a nice updated home. Do not put off the necessary repairs or upgrades! You can make those essential changes. So if you are a qualified veteran, be sure to take advantage of a VA Home Improvement Loan for your home changes.
Jeffrey Ragan has several years of experience helping people reach their goals and wants to help you learn more about VA home loans and other helpful information on their website, First-Time-Home-Buyer-Solutions.com.
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