Home Loan Options
Home Loan Options

The VA Certificate of Eligibility confirms your right to use your VA home loan benefit. John Shea explains what it is, why it matters, and how his team can typically obtain it for you quickly as part ... ...more
Mortgage
April 13, 2026•4 min read

Updates to the VA appraisal process are designed to reduce delays and bring the experience closer to conventional appraisals. John Shea explains what is changing and what it means for military familie... ...more
Mortgage
April 10, 2026•5 min read

VA loans can be used for new construction but there are specific requirements that apply to both the builder and the lender. John Shea explains what military families PCSing to Fort Meade need to know... ...more
Mortgage
April 09, 2026•5 min read

The VA funding fee is one of the most misunderstood parts of the VA loan process. John Shea explains what it is, how it changes with subsequent use, and who may be exempt based on disability status. ...more
Mortgage
April 08, 2026•5 min read

Rolling closing costs into a VA loan is not as straightforward as many military families expect. John Shea explains how it actually works and the strategies that genuinely reduce out of pocket expense... ...more
Mortgage
April 07, 2026•5 min read

Receiving PCS orders to Fort Meade while stationed overseas does not mean you have to wait until you arrive to buy a home. John Shea explains how military families can purchase before they return with... ...more
Mortgage
April 06, 2026•5 min read
There is no limit to the number of times you can refinance. However, you must qualify every time you apply and there will be costs associated with closing the loan each time.
Yes! There are a number of bond programs that offer low or no down payment financing options.
The key to choosing the right mortgage is to understand the range of options and features available to you, as well as your budget, circumstances, and goals. Our licensed mortgage professionals are here to help you navigate that process. The more you know, the more comfortable and confident you will be choosing the best option for you and your family.
The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) does not permit a lender to close a loan until at least seven (7) business days have passed from the date your application was received. A typical home loan takes 30 days, as a number of third-party services such as appraisals, title work, and credit are required in conjunction with the mortgage process. Once you familiarize your Loan Officer with the details of your specific loan scenario, they will be able to provide you with a more specific timeline.
The only way to find out is to speak with a qualified mortgage professional. Our Loan Officers have helped numerous clients who didn’t know if they could qualify to become home owners. We take the time to understand your financial situation and long-term financial goals, and then match you with the loan program that best fits your needs. Your approval for a loan may also largely depend on the price of the home you are financing. Getting pre-qualified prior to beginning your home search can give you an idea of what you may be able to afford.
Homeowners typically refinance to save money, either by obtaining a lower interest rate or by reducing the term of their loan. Refinancing is also a way to convert an adjustable loan to a fixed loan or to consolidate debts.
This question does not have a simple, one-size-fits-all answer. The exact amount will depend on the price of the home you buy as well the type of mortgage financing you choose. Depending on your loan program, your down payment could be as much as 20% of the home’s price or as little as 3%, while some loans require no down payment at all.
You may still qualify for a home loan even if you have experienced a bankruptcy. The best way to find out if you qualify is to talk with a Loan Officer to discuss your options. Be sure to bring all paperwork regarding your bankruptcy so your Loan Officer can find the program that best fits your situation.
Interest rates fluctuate all day, every day. If an interest rate is good, it may be in your best interest to lock now. If you wait, you run the risk of an increase in rates later. If you are concerned that rates may go down after you lock, contact your Loan Officer to discuss your options. Some programs allow you to lock for an extended period and choose to lower your rate should a better one become available.
Yes, you can use your VA loan multiple times, provided you meet the eligibility requirements and restore your previous entitlement.
The amount varies depending on the property price and your financial situation. Typically, a VA loan requires no down payment, but closing costs and other fees may apply.
FHA loans generally require a minimum credit score of around 580 for the lowest down payment options, but requirements can vary by lender.
Preapproval usually takes a few days, depending on how quickly you provide the necessary documents and the lender’s process.
There is no limit to the number of times you can refinance. However, you must qualify every time you apply and there will be costs associated with closing the loan each time.
Yes! There are a number of bond programs that offer low or no down payment financing options.
The key to choosing the right mortgage is to understand the range of options and features available to you, as well as your budget, circumstances, and goals. Our licensed mortgage professionals are here to help you navigate that process. The more you know, the more comfortable and confident you will be choosing the best option for you and your family.
The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) does not permit a lender to close a loan until at least seven (7) business days have passed from the date your application was received. A typical home loan takes 30 days, as a number of third-party services such as appraisals, title work, and credit are required in conjunction with the mortgage process. Once you familiarize your Loan Officer with the details of your specific loan scenario, they will be able to provide you with a more specific timeline.
The only way to find out is to speak with a qualified mortgage professional. Our Loan Officers have helped numerous clients who didn’t know if they could qualify to become home owners. We take the time to understand your financial situation and long-term financial goals, and then match you with the loan program that best fits your needs. Your approval for a loan may also largely depend on the price of the home you are financing. Getting pre-qualified prior to beginning your home search can give you an idea of what you may be able to afford.
Homeowners typically refinance to save money, either by obtaining a lower interest rate or by reducing the term of their loan. Refinancing is also a way to convert an adjustable loan to a fixed loan or to consolidate debts.
This question does not have a simple, one-size-fits-all answer. The exact amount will depend on the price of the home you buy as well the type of mortgage financing you choose. Depending on your loan program, your down payment could be as much as 20% of the home’s price or as little as 3%, while some loans require no down payment at all.
You may still qualify for a home loan even if you have experienced a bankruptcy. The best way to find out if you qualify is to talk with a Loan Officer to discuss your options. Be sure to bring all paperwork regarding your bankruptcy so your Loan Officer can find the program that best fits your situation.
Interest rates fluctuate all day, every day. If an interest rate is good, it may be in your best interest to lock now. If you wait, you run the risk of an increase in rates later. If you are concerned that rates may go down after you lock, contact your Loan Officer to discuss your options. Some programs allow you to lock for an extended period and choose to lower your rate should a better one become available.
Yes, you can use your VA loan multiple times, provided you meet the eligibility requirements and restore your previous entitlement.
The amount varies depending on the property price and your financial situation. Typically, a VA loan requires no down payment, but closing costs and other fees may apply.
FHA loans generally require a minimum credit score of around 580 for the lowest down payment options, but requirements can vary by lender.
Preapproval usually takes a few days, depending on how quickly you provide the necessary documents and the lender’s process.





