Introduction
If you’re active-duty military, a veteran, or a surviving spouse, you may qualify for one of the most powerful home financing options in the country: the VA loan. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this program is designed to help those who serve buy a home with more flexibility and less financial stress.
If you’re stationed at NAS Lemoore or live in Hanford, Lemoore, Visalia, or surrounding areas of California’s Central Valley, this guide will walk you through what you need to know about VA loan benefits, how to qualify, and how to use your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to own instead of rent.
What Is a VA Loan?
A VA loan is a mortgage loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It allows eligible service members, veterans, and surviving spouses to buy a home with:
- No down payment
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Flexible credit requirements
- Competitive interest rates
Unlike other loans, the VA loan is a benefit earned through service, making it one of the most affordable and accessible paths to homeownership.
Key VA Loan Benefits You Should Know
1. $0 Down Payment
This is the most well-known benefit. Eligible borrowers can purchase a home without saving for a large down payment, which is especially helpful in high-cost states like California.
2. No PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance)
With conventional loans, if you put down less than 20%, you’re usually required to pay PMI. With VA loans, this is not required, saving buyers hundreds per month.
3. Flexible Credit Requirements
While each lender has different criteria, VA loans typically offer more flexible credit score and debt-to-income ratio requirements than conventional loans.
4. Competitive Interest Rates
Because VA loans are backed by the government, lenders can offer lower interest rates than other loan types, helping you save over the life of your loan.
5. Reusable Benefit
You can use your VA loan benefit more than once as long as the previous one is paid off or you have remaining entitlement.
6. Use Your BAH to Buy, Not Rent
If you’re stationed at NAS Lemoore, you can use your Basic Allowance for Housing to cover your mortgage. With home prices in Hanford, Lemoore, and Visalia still relatively affordable, this is a game changer.
Who Qualifies for a VA Loan?
You may be eligible for a VA loan if you:
- Are an active-duty service member (typically 90 days of continuous service)
- Are a veteran who meets minimum service requirements
- Are a National Guard or Reserve member (with 6+ years or activated service)
- Are a surviving spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty or from service-connected causes
You’ll also need to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA or your lender to confirm your benefit.
Why NAS Lemoore Families Should Use This Benefit
Many military families stationed at NAS Lemoore are renting homes in Hanford or Lemoore without realizing their VA loan could cover the cost of owning instead.
Example:
An E-5 with dependents at NAS Lemoore receives approx. $2,400/month BAH. A $375,000 VA-approved home could have a mortgage close to that amount with zero down.
That means you could build equity in your own home instead of paying someone else’s mortgage.
How to Use Your VA Loan in the Central Valley
- Get Pre-Approved by a VA-Specialized Lender
- Request Your COE (Certificate of Eligibility)
- Work with a VA-Savvy REALTOR® (like me!)
- Search for VA-approved homes in Hanford, Lemoore, or Visalia
- Make an offer, complete appraisal & underwriting
- Close with $0 down and move into your new home
Common Misconceptions
- “You can only use the VA loan once.” ✓ False. It’s reusable.
- “You can only use it if you’re active duty.” ✓ False. Veterans, Guard, and Reserves may qualify.
- “You can’t use it on new construction.” ✓ False. Many builders in the Central Valley are VA-friendly.
Helpful Resource
Final Thoughts
If you’re eligible for a VA loan and you’re living in or relocating to California’s Central Valley, this benefit is one of the best tools you have to achieve long-term wealth and stability through homeownership.
As a local Realtor, I’m here to help you understand your options, get pre-approved, and find the right home — whether you’re PCS’ing to NAS Lemoore or looking to buy your first home in the area.
📲 Call/Text: (559) 880‑6808
📧 Email: hello@paulero.com
FAQ: What You Should Know About VA Loan Benefits
1. What are the main benefits of a VA loan?
VA loans offer no down payment, no PMI, low interest rates, and flexible credit guidelines for eligible military and veteran buyers.
2. Can I use my VA loan if I’m stationed at NAS Lemoore?
Yes. Many service members stationed at NAS Lemoore use their BAH to buy homes in Hanford, Lemoore, or Visalia with $0 down using a VA loan.
3. How do I apply for a VA loan in California?
Start by contacting a VA-approved lender to get pre-approved and request your Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Then work with a VA-experienced REALTOR®.
4. Can I use the VA loan more than once?
Yes. The VA loan is a reusable benefit. You can use it multiple times if you restore your entitlement after selling or paying off the previous loan.
5. Is there a credit score requirement for VA loans?
The VA does not set a minimum credit score, but most lenders require at least 600–620. Some offer flexibility based on other financial factors.
6. What areas are best for VA buyers in the Central Valley?
Hanford, Lemoore, and Visalia are ideal due to affordability, proximity to NAS Lemoore, and availability of VA-friendly builders and homes.
