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Sausalito sits in one of California's most expensive counties. VA loans matter here because zero down payment is rarely available at this price point.
Marin County homes are not starter-market properties. VA eligibility gives veterans real purchasing power that conventional loans simply can't match without massive cash reserves.
0%
Down Payment
620 (typical)
Min Credit Score
Never
PMI Required
2.15% of loan
Funding Fee (1st use)
30–45 days
Est. Close Time
VA Loans in Sausalito
You need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) — proof the VA recognizes your service. Most lenders want a 620 credit score, though some go lower.
Debt-to-income ratio matters too. Most VA lenders cap at 41%, but strong residual income can override that. The VA cares as much about monthly leftovers as your DTI.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect va loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Sausalito.
Sausalito sits in one of California's most expensive counties. VA loans matter here because zero down payment is rarely available at this price point.
Marin County homes are not starter-market properties. VA eligibility gives veterans real purchasing power that conventional loans simply can't match without massive cash reserves.
You need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) — proof the VA recognizes your service. Most lenders want a 620 credit score, though some go lower.
Not every lender handles VA loans well. Some treat them like conventional deals and slow everything down. You want a lender who closes VA files regularly.
We work with 200+ wholesale lenders. Several specialize in high-balance VA loans — critical in a market like Sausalito where prices push into jumbo territory.
Sellers in Marin sometimes hesitate on VA offers. They've heard VA appraisals kill deals. A strong pre-approval letter and experienced broker fix that perception fast.
The VA funding fee catches people off guard. First-time use with zero down is 2.15% of the loan amount. Disabled veterans are often exempt — always verify your status before closing.
FHA requires 3.5% down and permanent mortgage insurance. VA requires neither. In Sausalito's price range, that difference in cash needed is substantial.
Jumbo conventional loans need 10-20% down and strong reserves. VA high-balance loans let eligible borrowers skip that entirely. For veterans, the choice is usually clear.
Sausalito has a mix of single-family homes, condos, and floating homes. VA loans do not finance floating homes — know this before you fall in love with a listing.
Condos must be VA-approved. Marin has some condo complexes that aren't on the VA-approved list. We check this early so you don't waste time on an ineligible property.
Yes, but the condo complex must be on the VA-approved list. We check this before you make an offer.
No. VA loans require standard real property. Floating homes don't qualify — full stop.
It's a one-time fee rolled into your loan — typically 2.15% for first use. Disabled veterans are often exempt.
Borrowers with full entitlement have no VA loan limit. Reduced entitlement borrowers face county-based caps.
Most will with a solid pre-approval. Some hesitate over VA appraisals — your broker should address that directly.
Typically 30-45 days. VA appraisals add time — experienced lenders order them fast to stay on schedule.