Start with your real household budget
Discuss your comfort level before using a maximum approval amount as a shopping target. Plan for insurance, taxes, repairs, utilities, HOA dues and reserves as well as the mortgage.
Understand the VA advantages
Eligible borrowers may buy with no down payment, subject to entitlement, appraisal and lender requirements. VA loans have no monthly mortgage insurance and no prepayment penalty. Closing costs and a possible funding fee still matter.
Move from preapproval to contract
Review a lender’s conditional preapproval, shop with an agent, and include the required VA escape clause in your purchase contract. An accepted offer starts appraisal, inspection, title and underwriting work.
Close with the details resolved
Respond to document requests through your secure channel. Review the Closing Disclosure, confirm your final payment and cash needed, and independently verify wire instructions with your known escrow contact before sending money.
Read the official guidance
VA • Purchase loans ↗VA • Homebuying process ↗Sources reviewed October 25, 2026. Requirements can change. Ask Sasha to help apply the information to your situation.