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Home loans for veterans and military

Quick answer

Veterans and service members usually get the best deal with a VA-backed loan: no down payment when the price doesn't exceed appraised value and no monthly mortgage insurance. A one-time funding fee applies unless you're exempt. Some states, like Utah and Texas, add veteran grants or assistance.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsLast updated

Which programs help veterans and military buy a home?

VA-backed purchase loan

Eligible service members, veterans and some surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility can buy with no down payment when the price doesn't exceed the appraised value, and with no monthly mortgage insurance. A one-time VA funding fee applies unless you're exempt.

Official source: va.gov

Which states have programs for veterans and military?

StateProgramAssistance
FloridaFlorida Hometown Heroes Housing ProgramUp to 5% of the first mortgage amount (maximum $35,000, minimum $10,000), subject to funding
TexasHomes for Texas HeroesDown payment and closing cost assistance up to 5% of the loan amount
GeorgiaGeorgia Dream PEN (Protectors, Educators & Nurses)Lesser of 6% of the purchase price or $12,500
South CarolinaSC Housing Palmetto Heroes (2026)$10,000 forgivable, subject to available funding
UtahUtah Homebuyer Veteran GrantUp to $2,500, no repayment

Tips for veterans and military applying for a mortgage

  • Request your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through VA or your lender.
  • Veterans with a VA disability rating are typically exempt from the funding fee.
  • VA has no county loan limit for borrowers with full entitlement.

Next: check your state's down payment assistance, your county loan limits, and what you can afford on your salary.

Loan requirements

FHA requirementsVA requirementsConventional requirementsUSDA requirements

Frequently asked questions

Veterans and service members usually get the best deal with a VA-backed loan: no down payment when the price doesn't exceed appraised value and no monthly mortgage insurance. A one-time funding fee applies unless you're exempt. Some states, like Utah and Texas, add veteran grants or assistance.

Eligible service members, veterans and some surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility can buy with no down payment when the price doesn't exceed the appraised value, and with no monthly mortgage insurance. A one-time VA funding fee applies unless you're exempt.

Yes — we've verified 5 state programs that include veterans and military, listed on this page with official links.

Sources

Data last updated October 23, 2026.

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Figures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.