05/06/2026
May is Military Appreciation Month, which is a time to recognize the service and sacrifice of those who have served our country.
It’s also a moment to shine a spotlight on one of the most powerful, yet underutilized tools in real estate: the VA loan.
Because in today’s market, even with one of the strongest mortgage products available, many veterans are still facing barriers to homeownership.
New data from Veterans United highlights a major shift:
68% of veterans and service members’ parents have helped or plan to help their child buy a home.
In comparison, the same support from civilians’ parents sits at 49%.
Many veterans and service members’ parents are contributing between $25,000 to more than $100,000 to make homeownership possible for their children.
The biggest barriers for veterans today remain saving for upfront costs, qualifying for financing, and managing monthly affordability.
VA loans continue to remove some of the biggest barriers to homeownership:
No Down Payment Required. Nearly 90% of VA buyers purchase with zero down, making homeownership possibly without years of saving. This removes the top reason where parents step in to help. But only 3 in 10 veterans understand that VA financing typically allows 0% down.
No PMI = Immediate Savings. VA buyers avoid private mortgage insurance, saving $150-250 per month on average, which increases buying power by roughly $30,00-$40,000 in purchase price.
Lower Rates & Flexible Credit. VA loans consistently offer lower interest rates (0.25% to 0.5% below conventional) and more flexible credit guidelines.They can offer good rates for mid-range credit scores (640 to 680) and will accept scores as low as 580.
More Flexible Negotiation Power. Sellers can contribute toward closing costs and up to 4% toward buyer debts, creating unique opportunities to strengthen offers.
Despite all of this, VA loans remain underutilized:
It is estimated that only 13% of eligible veteran homeowners are using a VA loan. However, 93% of users rely on a VA loan for their first home.
Nearly 60% of VA loan usage is driven by Millennial and Gen Z buyers.
VA loans are still misunderstood in the market. Let’s set the record straight:
In fact, avoiding or discouraging VA loan financing in a transaction doesn’t just limit opportunity for a buyer – it can also raise Fair Housing concerns. This makes it even more important that agents confidently support and present offers backed by VA loans.
By understanding VA loans, communicating their value, and advocating for their use, we can help more veterans buy without waiting, compete without compromise, and fully access the benefits that they’ve earned.
Please reach out to me (828)232-7488 if you have any questions or if I can assist you in your homebuying path.
