A VA-guaranteed Home Loan can be used
- To buy a home, a condominium unit in a VA-approved project, or to purchase a unit in a cooperative (co-op).
- To build a home.
- To simultaneously purchase and improve a home.
- To improve a home by installing energy-related features such as solar or heating/cooling systems, water heaters, insulation, weather-stripping/caulking, storm windows/doors, or other energy efficient improvements approved by the lender and VA. These features may be added to the purchase of an existing dwelling or by refinancing a home owned and occupied by the veteran. A loan can be increased up to $3,000 based on documented costs or up to $6,000 if the increase in the mortgage payment is offset by the expected reduction in utility costs. A refinancing loan may not exceed 90 percent of the appraised value plus the costs of the improvements. Check with a lender or VA for details.
- To refinance an existing home loan with a maximum loan to value that is higher than for conventional loans, or to refinance an existing VA loan to reduce the interest rate.
- To buy a manufactured home and/or lot.
Source: VA Home Loans – A Quick Guide for Homebuyers and Real Estate Professionals, www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/vap26-91-1.asp