For Veterans & Active-Duty Service Members
VA Home Loans — 2026 Guide
Thank You for Your Service
You've Earned This Benefit — Let's Use It
The VA home loan program is one of the most valuable benefits available to veterans and active-duty service members. With no down payment, no PMI, and competitive interest rates, it's often the best mortgage option available — and Christy Holcombe at Keller Williams Greater Chattanooga specializes in helping veterans use it to buy homes across Tennessee and Georgia.
Whether you're buying your first home, relocating, or looking for rural land and property, Christy will walk you through every step of the VA loan process with patience and expertise.
Why VA Loans
Key Benefits in 2026
No Down Payment Required
Eligible veterans can purchase a home with zero down payment — one of the most powerful benefits of the VA loan program.
No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Unlike conventional loans, VA loans do not require PMI, saving you hundreds of dollars per month.
Competitive Interest Rates
VA loans typically offer lower interest rates than conventional mortgages, reducing your monthly payment and total cost.
Flexible Credit Requirements
The VA program is more forgiving of past credit challenges, making homeownership accessible to more veterans.
Limits on Closing Costs
The VA limits the closing costs lenders can charge, keeping more money in your pocket at the closing table.
No Prepayment Penalty
Pay off your loan early without any penalty — giving you full flexibility over your financial future.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility Requirements
- Active-duty service members with at least 90 continuous days of service
- Veterans who served 90 days during wartime or 181 days during peacetime
- National Guard and Reserve members with 6 years of service or 90 days of active duty
- Surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or from a service-connected disability
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable may still qualify — contact us to review your situation
Not sure if you qualify? Contact Christy — she'll help you review your service history and connect you with a VA-approved lender.
The Process
How It Works
Obtain Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Your COE verifies to lenders that you qualify for a VA loan. Christy can help you request it through the VA or your lender can often pull it directly.
Get Pre-Approved
Work with a VA-approved lender to get pre-approved. This tells you exactly how much home you can afford and strengthens your offer.
Find Your Home with Christy
Christy specializes in VA purchases across Tennessee and Georgia. She knows the rural and suburban markets and will find the right property for your needs and budget.
VA Appraisal & Inspection
The VA requires an appraisal to ensure the property meets Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). Christy will guide you through this process.
Close & Move In
Once approved, you'll close on your new home — often with little to no money out of pocket. Welcome home.
Common Questions
VA Loan FAQs for 2026
Can I use a VA loan to buy land or a rural property?
Yes, in many cases. VA loans can be used for rural properties as long as the home meets the VA's Minimum Property Requirements. Christy has extensive experience with rural and land purchases in Tennessee and Georgia.
What is the VA funding fee in 2026?
The VA funding fee for first-time use with no down payment is 2.15% of the loan amount for most veterans. It can be rolled into the loan. Some veterans — including those receiving VA disability compensation — are exempt from the fee entirely.
Is there a loan limit for VA loans in 2026?
For veterans with full entitlement, there is no VA loan limit — you can borrow as much as a lender will approve with no down payment. Loan limits only apply if you have a previous VA loan that has not been paid off.
Can I use a VA loan more than once?
Yes. VA loan benefits can be used multiple times throughout your lifetime. If you've paid off a previous VA loan, your full entitlement is restored.
How long does the VA loan process take?
Typically 30–45 days from contract to closing, similar to a conventional loan. Having your COE and pre-approval ready before you start shopping speeds up the process significantly.
Ready to Use Your VA Benefits?
Christy Holcombe specializes in VA home purchases across Tennessee and Georgia. Call today for a free, no-pressure consultation.