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Sacramento has a significant military population. With bases like Beale Air Force Base nearby, VA loans are one of the most-used programs in this market.
Zero down payment means veterans can buy without saving for years. That matters in a city where home prices have climbed steadily.
0%
Down Payment
620 (typical)
Min Credit Score
2.15%
Funding Fee (1st use)
None
Mortgage Insurance
21-30 days
Typical Close Time
You need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to use a VA loan. Active-duty members, veterans, and surviving spouses can qualify.
Most VA lenders want a 620 credit score, but some go lower. There's no VA-set minimum — lenders set their own floor.
Not every lender handles VA loans well. Some approve them in 21 days. Others drag it past 45 — and sellers notice.
Working with a broker gives you access to VA-specialist wholesale lenders. That means faster closings and sharper pricing.
The VA funding fee trips up a lot of borrowers. First-time VA users pay 2.15% of the loan amount — rolled into the loan, not due at closing.
Disabled veterans with a service-connected rating may be exempt from the funding fee. Always verify that before closing — it's real money.
FHA requires 3.5% down and charges monthly mortgage insurance. VA has neither. For eligible borrowers, VA almost always wins.
Conventional loans need 5-20% down without PMI. A VA loan lets you keep that cash and still get a competitive rate.
Sacramento sellers are familiar with VA loans. Appraisal requirements are slightly stricter — the property must meet VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs).
Fixer-uppers can fail VA appraisal. If you're targeting older Sacramento neighborhoods, have your broker vet the property before you write an offer.
Yes. VA loans require zero down payment for eligible borrowers. You'll still need to cover closing costs unless the seller agrees to pay them.
There's no VA loan limit for borrowers with full entitlement. If you've used your VA benefit before, limits may apply.
Expect 21-30 days with an experienced VA lender. Inexperienced lenders can push that past 45 days.
Most don't. VA loans are common here. A strong pre-approval and experienced broker help your offer compete.
Homes with major safety issues, roof problems, or deferred maintenance often fail. Ask your broker before writing an offer on any fixer.
Yes, if the spouse has not remarried and meets VA eligibility rules. A COE confirms eligibility before you shop.
VA Loans in Sacramento