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VA Home Loans

November 4, 2009 No comments

VA Home Loans

VA Loans Done Right is a group of VA Home Loans mortgage professionals with over 20 years of experience in closing and funding VA Home Loans. VA Home Loans remain one of the best Home Loan Programs with some of the Lowest Mortgage Rates in the United States and can help active and retired military achieve the American dream of home ownership with 100% financing, no mortgage insurance, and reasonable credit guidelines.

VA Home Loans are arguably the best first time home buyer loan in the market.

 

The VA Home Loans Guaranty

The Veterans Administration offers a stable, government-backed mortgage program that has been around for decades.  Despite recent tightening of mortgage qualification standard, VA Home Loans remain a flexible program designed to help Veterans achieve the dream of home ownership. VA Home Loans rates are competitive with “conventional” rates and payments are low due to no mortgage insurance.

One of our experienced VA Home Loans Experts will give you a free, honest, no obligation consultation to help determine if you qualify for any of the available VA Home Loans!

 

Purchase a home with VA Financing

 

Refinance your VA Mortgage

 

What is the VA Certificate of Eligibility

OK, sounds good, but do you qualify?  The first step to determining if you qualify for any of the VA Home Loans is to order your VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE).  We can obtain your COE in minutes through our VA Portal.  You must have a DD214 or be active military in order to request your COE.  Visit our Certificate of Eligibility page for more information.

Once you have determined your eligibility, the next step is to get pre-approved.  If you are buying a home, the seller will want to see a pre-approval letter submitted with your offer.  Our VA Home Loans Experts can help you get pre-approved today!

Contact John Burke at (877)228-9069 or by filling out the form below.

Take a look at the recommendations from some of my past clients on my Trulia profile by clicking the link below:

http://www.trulia.com/mortgage-lender-profile/MTG%20Banker/#reviews

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VA Home Loans

Can You Get a VA Loan With an Open CAIVRS Report in 2026?

March 12, 2026 No comments

Yes – Here’s how:

Can You Get Approved for a VA Mortgage With an Open CAIVRS Report? Short Answer: Yes – in many cases, you still can. If you’ve been denied a VA loan because of a CAIVRS hit, you’re not alone. Many Veterans and service members run into this issue and are told by other lenders that it’s impossible to get approved. That’s not always true. What Is CAIVRS?CAIVRS stands for Credit Alert Interactive Voice Response System. It’s a federal database maintained by HUD that tracks people who owe money to government agencies, including the VA, FHA, USDA, SBA, and others. Common reasons Veterans end up in CAIVRS include: Defaulted federal student loans

Unpaid overpayments on VA disability or education benefits

FHA or VA loan that went into foreclosure or was included in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Court-ordered restitution or other federal debts

Important 2026 Updates & Good News: The rules have improved in your favor. Here’s what most lenders won’t tell you: If your CAIVRS report is due to an FHA or VA loan that was included in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, you can often still get approved after the bankruptcy discharge date (typically 2 years), even if the foreclosure sale was more recent.

Many lenders apply a strict “36-month wait from foreclosure” rule — this is a lender overlay, not an actual VA requirement.

Defaulted federal student loans no longer automatically block approval if you’re making acceptable repayment arrangements.

I specialize in getting VA loans approved with open CAIVRS reports when other lenders say no. Real Reviews from Veterans I’ve Helped.

“John and his team got my wife and I into our home while I was on the CAIVRS list after a bankruptcy and closed in 35 days.”

— James, Suffolk, VA

“We were told by multiple lenders our dream was not possible… John assured me there was a way. We closed on our home on January 4th!”

— Bonnie, New Germany, MN

“John made our dreams come true! We will never use anyone else.”

— Robi & Kenneth, Houston, TX

(These are real Zillow reviews — see them all here: https://www.zillow.com/lender-profile/MTG%20Banker/)

Ready to See If You Qualify? Don’t let an old CAIVRS report stop you from buying a home in 2026. Call or text me today at (720) 371-1783, and I’ll review your situation (usually same day). Subscribe to My Weekly Housing Market & Mortgage Newsletter for the latest VA loan updates, rate alerts, and market insights:

→ https://housingnewsletters.com/johnburke

This is for informational purposes only. Every situation is unique — I’ll give you a clear answer after reviewing your specific CAIVRS report.

Uncategorized

Veterans Can Now Deduct VA Funding Fee on 2026 Taxes – What You Need to Know.

March 12, 2026 No comments

Veterans, Service Members & Surviving Spouses: You Can Now Deduct Your VA Funding Fee on Your 2026 Taxes. Starting in tax year 2026, the VA funding fee paid on a VA-guaranteed home loan is now tax-deductible. This is big news for anyone buying or refinancing a home with a VA loan this year and beyond. What Is the VA Funding Fee? The VA funding fee is a one-time payment that helps keep the VA home loan program running without requiring a down payment or monthly mortgage insurance for most borrowers. The fee typically ranges from 0.5% to 3.3% of the loan amount, depending on the loan type, down payment, and whether it’s your first VA loan. You can usually roll the fee into the loan amount or pay it at closing. Who Benefits Most? First-time VA homebuyers 

Repeat VA users 

Veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses

Note: Veterans with service-connected disabilities and Purple Heart recipients on active duty remain exempt from the funding fee. Important Timing: This deduction only applies to VA funding fees paid in 2026 and later. If you closed on a VA loan in 2025 or earlier, the fee is not deductible under this new rule. Official Source: Read the full VA announcement here:

https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/documents/circulars/26_26_01.pdf

Ready to Buy or Refinance in 2026?

Whether you’re a Veteran looking to use (or reuse) your VA benefits, or an agent with clients who are Veterans, I’d love to help. Get your personalized VA loan quote

 See current rates and payment scenarios

 Learn about zero-down options and more. Subscribe to My Weekly Housing Market & Mortgage Newsletter for the latest rates, market updates, and homebuying tips:

→ https://housingnewsletters.com/johnburke

This information is for educational purposes only and is not tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax advisor regarding your specific tax situation.

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How to Use a VA One-Time Close Construction Loan to Build Your Dream Barndominium in Texas

June 2, 2025 No comments

How to Use a VA One-Time Close Construction Loan to Build Your Dream Barndominium in Texas

Are you a veteran or military family member dreaming of building a barndominium in the vast, open spaces of Texas? With the right financing, this dream can become a reality. A VA One-Time Close Construction Loan offers a unique opportunity to leverage your VA benefits to finance the construction, lot purchase, and permanent mortgage all in one seamless process. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can use this loan to build your perfect barndominium in Texas.

What is a VA One-Time Close Construction Loan?

A VA One-Time Close Construction Loan is a specialized mortgage product designed for eligible veterans and military personnel. Unlike traditional construction loans, this option allows you to finance the entire process—from purchasing the land to building your home and securing a permanent mortgage—all with a single loan. This streamlined approach eliminates the need for multiple loans and down payments, making it an attractive choice for building a barndominium.

Key Benefits of a VA One-Time Close Construction Loan

  1. Affordable Financing: Lock in competitive interest rates before construction begins, ensuring financial stability throughout the process.
  2. Single Loan Process: Combine construction, lot purchase, and permanent financing into one loan, simplifying the building experience.
  3. VA Benefits: Utilize your VA eligibility to access favorable terms and conditions, often without a down payment.

Why Texas is Perfect for Barndominiums

Texas, with its expansive landscapes and growing trend of barndominium living, is an ideal location for this type of home. Barndominiums offer a unique blend of rustic charm and modern functionality, making them suitable for a variety of lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a spacious ranch-style retreat or a contemporary living space, Texas provides the perfect backdrop.

The Appeal of Barndominiums

  • Versatility: Barndominiums can be customized to include living quarters, workspaces, and even recreational areas.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional homes, barndominiums often offer more square footage for the price.
  • Durability: Constructed with sturdy materials, barndominiums are built to last, providing long-term value.

Steps to Building Your Barndominium with a VA Loan

1. Check Your Eligibility and Secure Pre-Approval

First, ensure you meet the VA loan eligibility criteria. This typically includes active duty service members, veterans, and surviving spouses. You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to proceed. Additionally, getting pre-approved by a lender is a crucial step to determine your borrowing power and ensure you’re financially prepared for the project. Contact John Burke at jburke@valoansdoneright.com (mailto:jburke@valoansdoneright.com) or call 720-519-7494 to discuss your options and secure pre-approval for your VA One-Time Close Construction Loan. Let us help you turn your dream into reality!

2. Find the Right Lot

Texas offers numerous opportunities to find the perfect plot of land for your barndominium. Consider factors such as proximity to work, schools, and amenities, as well as any zoning restrictions that might affect your plans.

3. Choose a Reputable Builder

Work with a builder or contractor experienced in constructing barndominiums. They should be familiar with VA loan requirements and capable of delivering a home that meets VA property standards.

4. Lock in Your Rate

One of the advantages of this loan is the ability to lock in your interest rate before construction starts. This provides peace of mind and protects you from rate fluctuations during the building process.

5. Monitor Construction

Throughout the construction phase, inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance with VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). Your lender will work with you and the builder to oversee this process.

Financing Options for Barndominiums in Texas

While the VA One-Time Close Construction Loan is an excellent choice, other financing options may also be available, depending on your location and needs. For instance, USDA loans might be an option if you’re building in a rural area, offering favorable terms for barndominium projects.

Building a barndominium in Texas with a VA One-Time Close Construction Loan is not only feasible but also a smart financial decision. By leveraging your VA benefits, you can create a customized home that meets your needs and reflects your style. Start your journey today by checking your eligibility, securing pre-approval, and exploring the possibilities. Your dream barndominium awaits!

Don’t wait to start building your dream barndominium in Texas. Reach out to John Burke today at jburke@valoansdoneright.com (mailto:jburke@valoansdoneright.com) or call 720-519-7494 to get the process started and make your vision a reality. Your future home is just a conversation away

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Are VA Loans Only for First-Time Homebuyers?

VA loans aren’t just for first-time buyers! Learn how veterans can use this lifetime benefit multiple times. #VALoanMyths.

A common myth is that VA loans are only for first-time homebuyers, leaving many veterans unaware that this is a lifetime benefit. Whether you’re buying your second home, third, or refinancing, VA loans can be used multiple times—and in some cases, you can even have two VA loans at once! Let’s clear up this misconception and show how veterans can maximize their VA loan benefits.

Why the Myth Exists

The idea that VA loans are a one-time deal likely comes from confusion with other loan programs, like some state-specific first-time buyer grants. In contrast, VA loans are designed to support veterans throughout their lives, with no limit on how many times you can use them, as long as you meet eligibility and entitlement requirements.

The Truth About VA Loan Usage 

Lifetime Benefit: You can use VA loans to buy or refinance multiple homes over your lifetime, provided you restore your entitlement after paying off a previous VA loan. 

Multiple Loans: In certain cases, veterans with remaining entitlement can have two VA loans simultaneously, such as when relocating for military orders. 

Restoring Entitlement: Sell your home and repay the VA loan in full to restore your full entitlement for future use.

How to Use Your VA Loan Again

Check your remaining entitlement through the VA or a John Burke. If you’ve sold a previous VA-financed home, apply to restore your entitlement. Work with a VA-approved lender, like John Burke, to explore purchase or refinance options, and ensure your debt-to-income ratio supports additional loans if seeking a second VA loan.

VA loans aren’t just for first-time buyers—they’re a flexible, lifelong benefit for veterans. Whether you’re buying again or refinancing, don’t let this myth stop you from using the homeownership benefits you’ve earned through service.

Ready to use your VA loan again? Contact John Burke, VA Mortgage Specialist, at jburke@valoansdoneright.com or call (877) 228-9069 to explore your VA loan options.

VA Home Loans

Are VA Loan Appraisals Too Strict?

VA appraisals ensure safe homes without delays. Learn how they work, including MPR waiver options! #VALoanFacts


Many veterans fear that VA loan appraisals are overly strict or slow down home purchases, but this is a misconception. VA appraisals are designed to ensure homes are safe, sanitary, and livable, with standards comparable to other mortgage appraisals. Plus, the VA allows waiver requests for certain Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs), offering flexibility. Let’s debunk the myths and explore how VA appraisals work.

Why the Myth Persists
The misconception stems from the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs), which ensure homes meet basic safety and structural standards. Some believe these rules are stricter than other loan programs, but they’re practical and align with industry norms. Misinformation about delays and a lack of awareness about MPR waiver options also fuel this myth.

The Truth About VA Appraisals

  • Reasonable Standards: MPRs ensure essentials like working utilities, no major structural defects, and safe access—standards most well-maintained homes meet.
  • MPR Waiver Flexibility: In some cases, the VA allows waiver requests for certain MPRs, enabling buyers and sellers to address unique property issues without derailing the deal.
  • Comparable Timelines: VA loans close in 30 days or less, just like FHA & conventional loans.
  • Fixable Issues: If an appraisal flags minor repairs, sellers can make fixes, or buyers can explore VA’s amendment process or MPR waivers to keep the deal on track.

How to Navigate VA Appraisals

  • Choose a home in good condition to meet MPRs.
  • Work with a VA-experienced realtor to select properties likely to pass appraisal.
  • If issues arise, negotiate repairs with the seller, request an MPR waiver when applicable, or use the VA’s amendment process.
  • Partner with a knowledgeable lender to streamline the process and address any appraisal concerns efficiently.

Conclusion
VA appraisals are not a barrier—they protect veterans by ensuring safe homes while keeping closings on par with other loans. With the added flexibility of MPR waiver requests, VA appraisals offer practical solutions for buyers. Don’t let myths stop you from using your VA loan to secure your dream home.

Ready to buy a home with a VA loan? Contact John Burke, VA Mortgage Specialist, at jburke@valoansdoneright.com or call (877) 228-9069 to explore your VA loan options and navigate appraisals with ease.

VA Home Loans
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