VA loans were established prior to the end of World War II and have since assisted numerous veterans, service members, and military families in fulfilling their dream of owning their a home. In recent times, the program has become increasingly significant, with VA loan volume skyrocketing and offering substantial financial advantages that enable countless veterans to purchase homes, thereby making homeownership a possibility for those who may not have qualified otherwise.
If you sacrificed comfort and security to help protect our great nation, Mission One Mortgage thanks you for your service. We believe that there's no greater honor than to serve those who have served our country. We're not afraid to go above and beyond for our veterans because that's exactly what they did for us.
A VA loan is a mortgage option that is backed by the government and available to Veterans, service members, and surviving spouses. It is offered by private lenders such as banks and mortgage companies and not directly by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
VA home loans come with competitive interest rates and terms and can be used to purchase a variety of properties, including:
One of the great benefits of VA loans is that eligible Veterans can buy a home with no down payment, no mortgage insurance, lenient credit requirements, and the lowest average fixed rates in the market.
At Mission One Mortgage, we work with many Veterans who know that VA loans exist but don't quite understand the full range of benefits they provide. If that sounds familiar, keep reading. This section was written especially for you.
01
One of the standout benefits of the VA Loan program is that qualified borrowers can purchase a home without having to make a down payment up to the conforming loan limit of their county. This is a significant advantage over conventional and FHA loans, which typically require minimum down payments of 5 percent and 3.5 percent, respectively.
For example, on a $400,000 mortgage, a conventional loan would require a $20,000 down payment, while an FHA loan would require $14,000. Saving up that kind of cash can take service members and veterans years, but with the VA Loan, they can pursue homeownership without having to scrape and stockpile for years on end.
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It's important for military buyers to stay informed about credit score requirements when considering home financing options. Although credit score requirements have eased up a bit, it's still necessary to meet certain benchmarks set by conventional and FHA lenders. However, even meeting these benchmarks can be a challenge for many buyers.
Most VA lenders require a credit score of at least 620, which falls in FICO's "Fair" credit score range. Borrowers will typically need to meet a higher threshold for conventional mortgages, particularly if they want to secure a low-interest rate. It's worth checking out VA Loan rates to learn more about financing options.
Despite common misconceptions, military buyers don't need a perfect credit score to obtain financing. While a higher credit score can certainly help, it's important to remember that VA loans in Beaufort, SC are designed to help military members and veterans access affordable housing.
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Closing costs are an inevitable part of the home-buying process, no matter what type of mortgage product you choose. However, if you're a veteran, you may be pleased to know that the VA places limits on the fees and costs you're required to pay at the time of closing. Additionally, homebuyers have the option to ask sellers to cover all loan-related closing costs, as well as up to 4 percent of the purchase price for other expenses like prepaid taxes, insurance, and collections.
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Coming up with a down payment can be challenging for both conventional and FHA homebuyers. In addition, they are required to pay for mortgage insurance unless they can make a sizable down payment, usually 20% of the purchase price. For instance, on a $400,000 mortgage, this would be a staggering $80,000 in cash.
FHA loans carry an upfront mortgage insurance premium and annual mortgage insurance. The latter now lasts for the life of the loan. On the other hand, conventional homebuyers will pay this monthly cost until they have built up enough equity, which can take several years.
Fortunately, VA loans do not require any mortgage insurance. However, there is a mandatory funding fee that goes directly to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Borrowers with a service-connected disability are exempt from paying this fee, which helps keep the program going for future generations.
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If you've experienced a financial setback such as a foreclosure, short sale, or bankruptcy, you may be worried about your chances of securing a VA home loan. However, don't lose hope just yet. With VA loans, it's still possible to be eligible for a home loan just two years after a foreclosure, short sale, or bankruptcy. In some cases, veterans who file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection can be eligible for a VA loan just a year after the filing date.
It's worth noting that the waiting periods for conventional or FHA financing can be significantly longer than those for VA loans. Additionally, even if you've lost a VA-backed mortgage to foreclosure, you may still be eligible for another VA loan.
So, if you're a veteran who's experienced a financial setback but still dreams of owning a home, don't give up hope. Explore your options and see if a VA loan with Mission One Mortgage could be the solution you need.
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It's important to keep in mind that VA lenders typically prefer borrowers to spend no more than 41 percent of their gross monthly income on major debts, such as mortgage payments or student loans. However, it's possible to get a VA home loan even if you have a higher DTI ratio. Some lenders may offer up to 55 percent or more depending on your credit score and ability to meet additional income requirements. This can give homebuyers more flexibility and greater purchasing power when it comes to finding their dream home.
Remember - if you have any questions about the benefits you just read about - like what credit score Mission One Mortgage requires for a VA loan - contact our office today. It would be our pleasure to help you navigate the VA loan process, one step at a time.
One of the most common questions we get at Mission One Mortgage revolves around VA loan eligibility. Who is actually eligible for this type of loan? What are the requirements for getting a VA loan? If you meet the following requirements, chances are you'll be eligible for a VA loan.
Curious what the general steps are for purchasing a home with a VA loan? You're not alone. Keep reading to get a feel for what you have to do to enjoy the wonderful benefits of homeownership.
When applying for a VA home loan benefit, the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is an important document that verifies your eligibility to your lender. If you have already used your VA loan benefit in the past, a current COE can help you determine how much remaining entitlement you have. Additionally, it can ensure that your entitlement has been restored for previous VA-backed loans that were paid in full.
After you've applied for your COE, it's a good idea to examine your finances. We're talking about items such as income, expenses, credit profile, and your monthly budget. That way, you know for sure that you're ready to purchase a home.
As a veteran, you have the choice of going through a bank, credit union, or a private VA mortgage company like Mission One Mortgage. Most lenders will have different loan interest rates and fees, so it's important to shop around. Remember - Mission One specializes in VA loans in Beaufort, SC. Other lenders, such as large corporations and banks, often can't match the expertise and attention to detail that Mission One provides to veterans.
During this phase, it's a good idea to meet with a range of real estate professionals. Try to choose an agent who has experience processing and overseeing VA loans. Once you select an agent, you can bring your lender's pre-approval letter to their office and begin shopping.
This is the best part of the VA loan process, other than getting the keys to your new home. When looking for a house, remember to look at homes within your price range and budget. Lean on your real estate agent, friends, and family for help in your search.
If you're thinking about buying a home, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of homeownership. While renting can provide flexibility and less responsibility for maintenance, it comes with the risk of rent increases, potential property sales, and uncertainty about security deposit refunds.
On the other hand, owning a home can offer relatively stable mortgage payments and an opportunity to build long-term wealth for you and your family. Before making a decision, it's crucial to determine your priorities, such as your monthly budget for mortgage payments and other expenses like transportation and childcare. Ultimately, only you can determine what's best for your housing and financial needs.
At Mission One Mortgage, we take immense pride in simplifying the mortgage process and ensuring that our clients experience minimal stress. We understand that navigating the world of mortgages can be daunting, which is why we are committed to making it as smooth as possible.
By choosing to work with us, you're not just getting a mortgage broker - you're selecting a partner who is devoted to your financial well-being and dedicated to helping you achieve your dream of homeownership. By working together, we can work through the VA loan process one step at a time.
That rings true for all of our clients, but especially the U.S. Veterans we serve. In fact, we specialize in VA mortgages and are proud to offer them to US Veterans, those on Active Duty, and their spouses. VA Loans are one of the best mortgages available, offering no down payment requirements, no PMI, and some of the most favorable rates and terms.
If you're ready to take the next big step in your life and provide stability for your family with a place to call home, contact our office today. You're closer to the dream of home ownership than you might think.
BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - St. Helena Island residents voiced their concern about a proposed RV park coming to the island.They attended the Beaufort County Design and Review Board meeting.The project was attempting to get final approval for its design before going to the county council.At this meeting, the board discussed the final design for the project and received comments from residents in the area, who had just learned about it and felt it could cause more harm than good to the island.“We want our i...
BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - St. Helena Island residents voiced their concern about a proposed RV park coming to the island.
They attended the Beaufort County Design and Review Board meeting.
The project was attempting to get final approval for its design before going to the county council.
At this meeting, the board discussed the final design for the project and received comments from residents in the area, who had just learned about it and felt it could cause more harm than good to the island.
“We want our island to remain as it is,” One concerned resident said.
The RV Park would be located off Sea Island Parkway behind The Lowcountry Store.
A 100-plus lot park with a pavilion, pickleball courts, and other amenities.
One resident owns a horse farm that works with special needs children near the proposed location and claims it would create significant problems.
“Who is going to stop a child from crossing that piece of property and coming onto my yard?” Denise Bishop said. “Who is going to come up there and say, ‘Oh, I want to feed this horse carrots, apples, what have you?’ Then my horse colics.”
The project developer, John Trask, states that they will have personnel policing the property, and he will work with the property owners to reach a compromise on the other issues.
He was also asked if the land had a CPO, or Cultural Protection Overlay Zone, which aims to conserve the island and retain its heritage.
Trask and the board said the land did not.
“I am here to listen, aiming to try and accommodate people,” Trask said.
People also have concerns that the project could mess with wildlife in the area.
“How do we protect the marsh and wildlife from the chemicals that will be in the runoff?”
And neighbors worry the park could also add to the already busy roadway -- the only road that lets people on and off the island.
“Until there are two roads on and off this island, we should not be approving any development that assumes there are,” Willie Turral said.
Residents also questioned the board to see if the project would interfere with the island’s CPO, or cultural protected overlay Zone, which aims to conserve the island and retain its heritage.
The board tabled the final design vote on the RV Park.
They say that the developer didn’t make all the necessary changes the board asked him to make last time, and also recommended that he talk to residents about the project before bringing it back to the board.
By Delayna EarleyThe Island NewsThe holiday season is here, and Beaufort has no shortage of festive events available to help everyone celebrate the season, beginning this week.On Thursday, Dec. 4 and Friday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m., history comes alive in this interactive full-stage musical about the last Christmas before the Civil War. South Carolina has just seceded from the Union, talk of war is in the air and talk of freedom is spreading among servants in the Quarters. Tickets are av...
By Delayna Earley
The Island News
The holiday season is here, and Beaufort has no shortage of festive events available to help everyone celebrate the season, beginning this week.
On Thursday, Dec. 4 and Friday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m., history comes alive in this interactive full-stage musical about the last Christmas before the Civil War. South Carolina has just seceded from the Union, talk of war is in the air and talk of freedom is spreading among servants in the Quarters. Tickets are available for purchase.
A Night on the Town – Downtown Beaufort
On Friday, Dec. 5, from 6 to 9 p.m. in downtown Beaufort. Kick off the season with music, shopping, holiday treats, performances and Beaufort’s beloved Christmas tree lighting. Beaufort’s downtown streets come alive with cheer – perfect for making memories, strolling under the lights and supporting local shops.
Movie Night Meets Night on the Town – Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park Pavilion
The fourth annual Christmas Double-Feature will begin at 6 p.m. and will end at 9 p.m. and will show the movies Elf and The Grinch.
14th Annual Nativity Celebration – 1201 North Street
On Dec. 5 and 6 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and on Dec. 7 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. the First Presbyterian Church of Beaufort will be holding their 14th Annual Nativity Celebration where they will be celebrating the Christmas story with more than 150 nativities from around the world. All ages are welcome to the free event.
Gullah Taste of Christmas – Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
On Saturday, Dec. 6, beginning at 11 a.m., at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park guests will be able to taste authentic Gullah cuisine and enjoy live holiday entertainment. Included in this event will be the Gullah Rice Cookoff.
The Polar Express – Port Royal Library
On Saturday, Dec. 6 from 2 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., join Port Royal Library for a Santa meet and greet following a screening of the film.
On Saturday, Dec. 6, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Santa will be available for complimentary photos at Shellring Ale Works in Port Royal.
Light Up the Night Boat Parade – Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
On Saturday, Dec. 6, at 5:30 p.m. at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in downtown Beaufort. Gather along the waterfront as brilliantly decorated boats glide across the Beaufort River in a dazzling procession of lights. Bring your chairs, your cocoa and your holiday spirit – this is a Beaufort favorite for a reason!
Hosted by Sprenger Health Care Port Royal and running from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Dec. 6, all are invited to the annual Breakfast with Santa where kids enjoy a magical morning filled with delicious food, fun games and photos with Santa himself.
Beginning at 1 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 7, the market will feature local vendors, food trucks, a visit and photo ops with Santa and Mrs. Claus and live holiday spirit on Bladen Street.
Christmas Parade – Downtown Beaufort
On Saturday, Dec. 7, at 3 p.m. in downtown Beaufort a festive lineup of floats, performers, community groups and of course Santa Claus, himself will make their way along the City of Beaufort’s traditional parade route with one small detour due to the construction at the intersection of Bay and Charles Streets. It’s one of Beaufort’s longest standing traditions and a joyful way to wrap up the weekend.
Mistletoe Market – The Beaufort Inn’s Tabby Place
Running from Thursday, Dec. 11 through Saturday, Dec. 13 from 4 to 8 p.m. each day, come sip, shop and support the local businesses that make Beaufort home. Shop local and support the local businesses that are feeling the impact of the ongoing construction downtown that is causing a shift in visitor patterns.
Jingle All the Way 5K – Coleman Hall (Building 2) of Technical College of the Lowcountry
Saturday, Dec. 13, beginning at 9 a.m. and hosted by the TCL PTA Club. The 5K run is open to all ages and all proceeds benefit TCL’s Physical Therapist Assistant program. There is a $30 donation per racer and deadline to register is Dec. 9 at www.tcl.edu/jingle.
Jingle Jammie Jam Dance Party – Revolution Ballroom
On Saturday, Dec. 13, beginning at 7 p.m. get cozy for some dance lessons, hot chocolate and cozy holiday PJ’s. Open to the public (18+), singles and couples are welcome. Admission is $20 at the door or online.
On Dec. 13, carts must be lined up at Helena Square by 5:45 p.m. and will head to Shellring after for the official After Party and Awards.
Free event from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14 in the Port Royal Pavillion. Free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, refreshments and treats, facepainting and bounce houses.
On Dec. 20 at 4 p.m. join Santa at Mongolia Cafe for tea, house made soup and a chef curated savory and sweets tower. Reservations required. Call 843-816-8535 for more information.
Running through Dec. 27, the Cadd Family will be lighting up their area of Lady’s Island with their annual Christmas lights display. The display will run from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and on Friday and Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. except when it rains.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
On Dec. 31, at 9 p.m., bring in the New Year in downtown Beaufort at the Waterfront Park while watching fireworks along the Beaufort River.
Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at .
Three Beaufort County food businesses received B grades and one received a C grade in November’s health inspections conducted by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. No locations in Jasper County received B or C grades this November.Here is a rundown of the restaurants that received the lowest ratings and why they scored poorly:Pedro’s Tacos & Tequila: 1742 Ribaut Road, Port RoyalPedro’s Tacos & Tequila had a routine inspection on Nov. 18 and scored a 75% (C). Issues noted by inspecto...
Three Beaufort County food businesses received B grades and one received a C grade in November’s health inspections conducted by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. No locations in Jasper County received B or C grades this November.
Here is a rundown of the restaurants that received the lowest ratings and why they scored poorly:
Pedro’s Tacos & Tequila had a routine inspection on Nov. 18 and scored a 75% (C). Issues noted by inspectors included:
A reinspection is required within 10 days, but it has not occurred as of Dec. 1.
Jameson’s Charhouse had a routine inspection on Nov. 17 and scored an 83% (B). Issues noted by inspectors included:
Jameson’s Charhouse was reinspected on Nov. 24 and scored 100% (A).
Bowdie’s Chophouse had a routine inspection on Nov. 18 and scored an 81% (B). Issues noted by inspectors included:
Bowdie’s Chophouse was reinspected on Nov. 25 and scored 100% (A).
Speedway had a routine inspection on Nov. 19 and scored an 84% (B). Issues noted by inspectors included:
Speedway was reinspected on Nov. 24 and scored 100% (A).
Inspectors give restaurants a grade of A, B or C, depending on the conditions found at the time. Points are docked for various infractions, and restaurants have a chance to correct the problems and improve their score in a reinspection.
The grade scale is as follows:
In November, the SCDA recorded 196 inspections of restaurants, schools, stores, and other food establishments in Beaufort County and 31 in Jasper County.
The agency publishes the results of these health inspections on its website.
Newer food-grade decals include a QR code that customers can scan with their phones to see a food establishment’s latest report.
If there is an establishment for which you wish to request an inspection, you can submit a concern to the SCDA by filling out this Food Safety Complaint Form.
To learn more about how the grading system and inspections work, click here.
Take a look up to the heavens starting on Wednesday and you’ll see the last supermoon of the year light up the sky over Beaufort, SC. December’s cold moon will be the next full moon and it will be the final supermoon of 2025, making it one of the biggest full moons of the year, illuminating the sky for several nights.The moon will turn full at 8:20am on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025. Named for the chilly temperatures at this time of year in North America, this moon is not only the second-biggest full moon of 2025 — a &ldquo...
Take a look up to the heavens starting on Wednesday and you’ll see the last supermoon of the year light up the sky over Beaufort, SC. December’s cold moon will be the next full moon and it will be the final supermoon of 2025, making it one of the biggest full moons of the year, illuminating the sky for several nights.
The moon will turn full at 8:20am on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025. Named for the chilly temperatures at this time of year in North America, this moon is not only the second-biggest full moon of 2025 — a “supermoon” — but it reaches higher into the sky than any other.moon
It will look full the night before and the night after, but the best time to watch it rise in Beaufort will be at moonrise during dusk on Friday, Dec. 5, when it will appear on the eastern horizon shortly after sunset.
It will be the third of three supermoons this year. The three supermoons in 2025 occured on October 6, November 5, and this one on December 4. The first was the Harvest Moon. The second was the Beaver Moon, and this one is the Cold Moon.
In addition, the near coincidence of this full moon with perigee will result in a dramatically large range of high and low ocean tides. Any coastal storm at sea around this time would almost certainly aggravate coastal flooding problems at high tide, or, in the case of a strong wind pushing the water offshore, it would create a very low water situation at low tide.
Supermoons by definition happen “when a full moon coincides with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, a point known as perigee,” according to NASA.
“During every 27-day orbit around Earth, the Moon reaches both its perigee, about 226,000 miles (363,300 km) from Earth, and its farthest point, or apogee, about 251,000 miles (405,500 km) from Earth.”
Supermoons in general appear 17% bigger and 30% brighter than when the moon is at its farthest point away from Earth, according to NASA. Supermoons are slightly bigger and brighter than most full moons, too. Just because it’s bigger and brighter doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll see it unaided, so binoculars may give you a better view.
You’ll be able to step outside and enjoy the view with the supermoon brightly illuminating our late autumn evening sky.
The town is getting ready for the holidays and everyone is looking forward to the upcoming City of Beaufort Holiday Weekend Celebration. But there’s a few other happenings that will help you show your holiday spirit.The weekend of December 6th through 8th will be packed with music, food, entertainment, shopping, parades – and Santa, of course!Friday night, December 5th The weekend kicks off with Night on the Town at 6 p.m. on Friday. Bay Street will be closed to traffic. Downtown retailers will be o...
The town is getting ready for the holidays and everyone is looking forward to the upcoming City of Beaufort Holiday Weekend Celebration. But there’s a few other happenings that will help you show your holiday spirit.
The weekend of December 6th through 8th will be packed with music, food, entertainment, shopping, parades – and Santa, of course!
Friday night, December 5th The weekend kicks off with Night on the Town at 6 p.m. on Friday. Bay Street will be closed to traffic. Downtown retailers will be open. Roving choirs will be singing Christmas carols and other performers will also be taking the stage as well.
The Community Bible Church Soul Patrol Puppet Team will perform at Bay and Carteret streets. LOTS OF FOOD will be available along Bay Street from various vendors. Parents can bring their kiddies to have their pictures taken with Santa from 6-8 p.m. And, a recital of “The Night Before Christmas” will occur on the main stage just before the Christmas tree lighting culminates the evening around at 8pm
Saturday, December 6th The Gullah Taste of Christmas kicks off at 11 a.m. at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. With live music, a Rice Cookoff, food vendors, a kid’s village and more, the event is a beautiful celebration of Gullah traditions that will have you singing and dancing with joy.
Then, the super-popular Christmas Boat Parade begins at 5:30 p.m. – grab a seat at the park to get a great view.
Sunday, December 7th The annual Christmas Parade, led by Santa and featuring local bands and lots of floats, begins at 3 p.m. in downtown Beaufort.
There’s more!
During the Night on the Town Celebration, catch a Christmas double feature under the stars at the downtown waterfront as J.P. Signature Group at Keller Williams Realty is hosting its annual Movie Night Meets Night On The Town, featuring two free movies with The Grinch and Elf. Refreshments, hot cocoa, and popcorn will be served.
Also, capture the magic with Santa himself as jolly ol’ St. Nick is available for photos outside the Beaufort Candy Shoppe on select dates. Share your wishes and spread joy with Santa on November 29th (1-5pm), November 30th (12-4pm), December 6th (12-4pm), December 13th (12-4pm), and December 20th (12-4pm).
Christmas in the South is amazing, and so is all of the fun at Beaufort’s Holiday Weekend.
Find more Holiday fun in Beaufort SC