What Is a VA Loan?
A VA loan is a mortgage program backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It’s designed to help active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses buy, build, or refinance a home with more flexible terms than conventional loans.
If you’re stationed at NAS Lemoore, or you’re a veteran living in the Central Valley of California, the VA loan could be your key to homeownership — without needing a down payment or private mortgage insurance (PMI).
Who Is Eligible for a VA Loan?
You may be eligible if:
- You’re an active-duty service member (usually after 90 continuous days)
- You’re a veteran with qualifying service
- You’re a National Guard or Reserve member (usually after 6 years or activated service)
- You’re a surviving spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty
To get started, you’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which confirms your entitlement.
Key Benefits of a VA Loan (Especially in Hanford, Lemoore, Visalia and fresno)
- $0 Down Payment: No need to save for a large upfront payment
- No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Unlike FHA or conventional loans
- Flexible Credit Requirements: More forgiving than traditional loans
- Competitive Interest Rates: Often lower than other loan types
- Reusable Benefit: You can use your VA loan more than once
- Ability to Pay with BAH: Your Basic Allowance for Housing can often cover most or all of your mortgage
How Much House Can You Afford with a VA Loan in Central Valley?
Thanks to affordable housing prices in Hanford, Lemoore, and Visalia, many military families and first-time buyers can purchase a brand-new construction home or a spacious resale home without exceeding their BAH.
For example:
- E-5 with dependents at NAS Lemoore: approx. $2,400/month BAH
- Estimated mortgage on a $400,000 home: Around $2,300/month
This means you could own a home for what you already pay in rent — or less.
Step-by-Step: How to Use Your VA Loan in California
- Get Your COE (Certificate of Eligibility)
- Ask your lender or request it online through VA.gov
- Get Pre-Approved by a VA-Experienced Lender
- Work with a VA-Savvy Real Estate Agent
- I specialize in helping military families in NAS Lemoore and the Central Valley
- Shop for VA-Approved Homes
- Make an Offer and Go Under Contract
- Appraisal and Underwriting (VA Specific)
- Close with $0 Down
Common VA Loan Questions (And Answers)
1. What is a VA loan and how does it work?
A VA loan is a home loan benefit backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, designed for eligible active-duty service members, veterans, and surviving spouses. It allows you to buy a home with no down payment, no PMI, and favorable interest rates.
2. Who qualifies for a VA loan in California?
To qualify, you must be an active-duty service member, veteran, or eligible surviving spouse. Most military personnel stationed at NAS Lemoore meet the service requirement after 90 continuous days. A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is required to apply.
3. Can I use my Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to buy a home?
Yes. If you’re stationed at NAS Lemoore or another military installation in the Central Valley, your BAH can be applied toward your mortgage payment. In many cases, it can cover 100% of your monthly housing cost when using a VA loan.
4. Are there VA loan limits in California?
If you have full VA loan entitlement, there are no official loan limits. However, lenders may apply internal caps based on your credit, income, and local market conditions in areas like Hanford, Lemoore, and Visalia.
5. Can I use my VA loan benefit more than once?
Yes. The VA loan benefit is reusable. As long as your prior VA loan is paid off or your entitlement is restored, you can use it again to purchase another home — even in the same region like the Central Valley of California.
6. Do I need perfect credit to qualify for a VA loan?
No. The VA loan is known for its more flexible credit guidelines. While each lender sets their own minimum score (often around 620), VA loans are generally easier to qualify for than conventional mortgages.
7. Can I use a VA loan to buy a new construction home?
Yes. Many builders in Hanford, Lemoore, Visalia and Fresno work with VA loan buyers. You can use your benefit to purchase new construction homes, often with additional incentives from the builder.
8. What is the VA funding fee, and do I have to pay it?
The VA funding fee is a one-time cost that helps keep the program running. It ranges from 1.4%–3.6% of the loan amount, depending on use and down payment. However, disabled veterans are typically exempt from this fee.
9. How long does it take to close a VA loan?
VA loan timelines are comparable to conventional loans. Most close in 30–45 days. Working with a VA-experienced lender and agent (like myself) ensures a smooth and fast process.
10. Is Hanford, Lemoore, Visalia or fresno a good place to use my VA loan?
Yes. These Central Valley cities offer affordable home prices, military-friendly communities, and close proximity to Naval Air Station Lemoore — making them ideal locations to use your VA benefit.
Why the Central Valley is Ideal for VA Buyers
- Affordable New Construction Homes: Prices in the low-to-mid $400Ks
- VA-Friendly Builders: Many offer closing cost help or rate buydowns
- Proximity to NAS Lemoore: Commute times from Hanford, Lemoore, and parts of Visalia are short (`15-35 minutes)
- Strong Military Community: Resources, support, and familiarity with VA process
check out these resources
Final Thoughts
If you’re stationed at NAS Lemoore or planning to move to the Central Valley of California, your VA loan benefit can open the door to affordable homeownership. With zero down, no Private Mortgage Insurance, and flexible approval terms, this program is designed to serve those who serve.
As a licensed REALTOR® and relocation specialist, I help military families, veterans, and first-time buyers navigate the process confidently and avoid costly mistakes.
Need Help Getting Started?
Call/Text: (559) 880‑6808
Email: hello@paulero.com
