Jacob McCrackin
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If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member preparing to buy a home, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing the right type of mortgage.
Two of the most common options are VA loans and conventional loans. While both can help you achieve homeownership, they operate very differently — and for many veterans, one offers clear advantages.
At Veterans Move Together, we specialize in helping those who served make confident real estate decisions. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you determine which loan option is right for you.
A VA loan is a mortgage backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It was created to help veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses buy homes with more favorable terms.
VA loans are issued by private lenders but guaranteed by the VA, which reduces risk for the lender and creates benefits for the borrower.
For many veterans, this is one of the most powerful financial benefits earned through service.
A conventional loan is not backed by a government agency. It’s issued by private lenders and follows guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Unlike VA loans, conventional loans typically require stronger credit and a down payment.
| Feature | VA Loan | Conventional Loan |
|---|---|---|
| Down Payment | 0% required | 3%–20% |
| PMI | None | Required if <20% down |
| Interest Rates | Often lower | Market-based |
| Credit Requirements | More flexible | Stricter |
| Funding Fee | Yes (can be financed) | No |
| Property Standards | VA appraisal required | Standard appraisal |
For most veterans, the zero down payment is the game changer.
With a conventional loan, even a modest 5% down payment on a $400,000 home equals $20,000 upfront.
With a VA loan? $0 down.
That allows veterans to:
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) protects the lender if you default — and it can cost hundreds per month.
VA loans eliminate PMI entirely.
Conventional loans require PMI unless you put down 20%.
Over time, this can mean thousands of dollars saved with a VA loan.
Because VA loans are backed by the government, lenders take on less risk — which often translates to lower interest rates compared to conventional loans.
Even a 0.5% rate difference can save tens of thousands over the life of a loan.
VA loans do include a funding fee, which helps sustain the program.
Even with the funding fee, many veterans still come out ahead due to zero down and no PMI.
While VA loans are powerful, there are scenarios where a conventional loan may make sense:
That’s why working with a veteran-focused real estate team matters — we help you evaluate both options strategically.
For most eligible veterans:
The VA loan is typically the stronger financial option.
It was specifically designed to:
However, the “best” loan depends on your:
That’s where guidance makes the difference.
Not every agent understands:
At Veterans Move Together, we specialize in helping veterans navigate these decisions confidently — and we advocate for you every step of the way.
You served. Your benefits should work for you.
Choosing between a VA loan and a conventional loan isn’t just about rates — it’s about long-term strategy.
If you’re a veteran considering buying or selling, Veterans Move Together is here to guide you through every step of the process with clarity, integrity, and experience.
Let’s make your next move count.
In competitive markets, some sellers misunderstand VA loans. However, with the right strategy and experienced representation, VA buyers can compete successfully.
Yes. The VA benefit can be reused, and in some cases, you can even have multiple VA loans at once depending on entitlement.
Not typically. VA loans often close within similar timeframes as conventional loans when handled properly.
Not always — but for many veterans, it offers unmatched financial advantages.