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Marin County is one of the most expensive real estate markets in California. Zero-down VA financing matters more here than almost anywhere else in the state.
Novato sits at the northern end of Marin — more affordable than Tiburon or Mill Valley, but still priced well above national norms. VA loans give eligible buyers a real shot at homeownership here.
0%
Down Payment
620 (typical)
Min Credit Score
None w/ full entitlement
Loan Limit
None
Mortgage Insurance
Veterans, active duty, spouses
Who Qualifies
VA Loans in Novato
You need a Certificate of Eligibility and sufficient entitlement to use a VA loan. Most lenders want at least a 620 credit score, though some go lower.
Debt-to-income ratio matters. Most VA lenders prefer your total debts stay under 41% of gross income, but strong residual income can offset that.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect va loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Novato.
Marin County is one of the most expensive real estate markets in California. Zero-down VA financing matters more here than almost anywhere else in the state.
Novato sits at the northern end of Marin — more affordable than Tiburon or Mill Valley, but still priced well above national norms. VA loans give eligible buyers a real shot at homeownership here.
You need a Certificate of Eligibility and sufficient entitlement to use a VA loan. Most lenders want at least a 620 credit score, though some go lower.
Not every lender handles VA loans well. Big retail banks often apply overlays — extra rules beyond VA minimums — that reject borrowers who would otherwise qualify.
We work with 200+ wholesale lenders, including VA specialists who understand the nuances of high-cost California markets like Marin County.
VA appraisals in Marin can be tricky. Properties must meet Minimum Property Requirements — deferred maintenance or unpermitted work can kill a deal fast.
Sellers in competitive markets sometimes hesitate on VA offers. Have your agent address this upfront. A clean pre-approval from a known lender helps.
FHA requires 3.5% down and charges mortgage insurance for the life of the loan. VA has neither — that's a significant cost advantage in a high-price market.
Conventional loans above conforming limits become jumbo, requiring 10-20% down. VA borrowers with full entitlement can go above conforming limits with zero down.
Novato has a notable military connection through the former Hamilton Air Force Base. Many veterans already live here or are looking to return — VA is a natural fit.
Home prices in Novato can push into jumbo territory. As of April 2026, VA loans have no cap for borrowers with full entitlement — that matters in this zip code.
Yes, if you have full VA entitlement. There's no loan limit cap, so zero-down applies even at Marin County price points.
Most borrowers pay it, but veterans with a service-connected disability rating are exempt. It can also be rolled into the loan.
Many will. A strong pre-approval and experienced agent help. VA offers are competitive when presented correctly.
Most VA lenders require at least 620. Some wholesale lenders go lower. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
Only if the condo project is VA-approved. Check the VA's condo approval list before making an offer.