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.
03
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 Brevard, FL are designed to help military members and veterans access affordable housing.
05
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.
02
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.
04
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.
06
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 Brevard, FL. 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.
For the second time in two days, Interstate 95 is closed in Brevard County along a seven-mile stretch due to smoke from a large brush fire, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.Traffic cameras show smoke limiting visibility. While all lanes were closed for much of Feb. 2, the northbound lanes reopened late in the afternoon.Here's what you should know.I-95 closed in Brevard County due to brush fireAll north and southbound lanes on I95 in Brevard County in Palm Bay were closed due to visibility concerns from a ...
For the second time in two days, Interstate 95 is closed in Brevard County along a seven-mile stretch due to smoke from a large brush fire, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Traffic cameras show smoke limiting visibility. While all lanes were closed for much of Feb. 2, the northbound lanes reopened late in the afternoon.
Here's what you should know.
All north and southbound lanes on I95 in Brevard County in Palm Bay were closed due to visibility concerns from a large brush fire, according to the Florida Highway Patrol and Brevard County Emergency Management. The northbound lanes reopened around 4 p.m., according to a Florida Department of Transportation statement.
Lanes are closed between Saint John's Heritage Parkway — mile marker 166 — and Malabar Road — mile marker 173.
Authorities are encouraging motorists to avoid the area.
Motorists will have to get off the interstate between Malabar Road and Saint John's Heritage Parkway.
On Sunday, Feb. 1, the same section of I95 was closed almost eight hours, from about 2:30 p.m. until all lanes reopened around 10:30 p.m., according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
A large brush fire was also the cause of the interstate closure.
The Florida Forest Service's website showed the Terkam Road fire in the area where the interstate is closed.
As of 12:04 p.m., the 130-acre wildfire was described as 100% contained
This story has been updated to include new information.
Cheryl McCloud is a journalist for the USA TODAY Network-Florida's service journalism Connect team. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters.
PFAS detected in recent samplingMIMS, Fla. – Chemicals that can cause cancer are still being found in some of Brevard County’s drinking water.At water treatment plants in south Brevard at Barefoot Bay, and in north Brevard at the Mims Water Treatment Plant, recent samples found levels of PFAS — called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down — exceeding new EPA limits.For decades, these kinds of chemicals weren’t regulated, and locally, people wh...
MIMS, Fla. – Chemicals that can cause cancer are still being found in some of Brevard County’s drinking water.
At water treatment plants in south Brevard at Barefoot Bay, and in north Brevard at the Mims Water Treatment Plant, recent samples found levels of PFAS — called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down — exceeding new EPA limits.
For decades, these kinds of chemicals weren’t regulated, and locally, people who live near Patrick Space Force Base blamed military chemicals in the environment when they got sick. Breast cancer survivor Victoria Hicks talked to Brevard County Community Correspondent James Sparvero during his extensive coverage in 2018 of a possible cancer cluster.
“This is not a coincidence that so many of us in our early 30s and some of us in our 20s getting cancer,” Hicks said.
[WATCH: Brevard cancer cluster study finds ample contamination (from 2022)]
For perspective, the EPA limits are in parts per trillion, so any detection is in a very small amount, but it’s enough to concern county commissioners like Katie Delaney, who will talk more about the chemicals in your water at Tuesday night’s commission meeting.
“You know, one glass of water isn’t going to be a problem, but a lifetime, or 10 years of drinking this, it will cause problems - thyroid problems, heart disease, cancer,” Delaney told Sparvero.
When asked what can be done beyond notifying people of the results, Delaney said the county has a plan.“We are working on a reverse osmosis system for our water facilities, and that will filter out the PFAS in this water,” she said.
[WATCH: Orange County aims to reduce potentially harmful chemicals in drinking water]
Commissioner Delaney told Sparvero that will take a couple of years, so when he asked her if your water is safe to drink right now, Delaney recommended getting a good filter.
If you’d like to see the full water sample results, they can be accessed here. Brevard County Board of County Commissioners - File #: 8555
You can watch Tuesday night’s commission meeting HERE.
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A massive two-alarm fire has broken out at an apartment complex in West Melbourne, Florida. The blaze is located near Palm Bay in Brevard County, and multiple fire agencies have responded to the scene.Witness reportsSeveral residents took to social media to share firsthand accounts of the smoke and conditions in the area.One person reported, "95 between Melbourne and viera all smokey. Visibility is decent."Another added, "I work at Gordon food services and it’s so smoky on 192 . Prayers.&quo...
A massive two-alarm fire has broken out at an apartment complex in West Melbourne, Florida. The blaze is located near Palm Bay in Brevard County, and multiple fire agencies have responded to the scene.
Several residents took to social media to share firsthand accounts of the smoke and conditions in the area.
One person reported, "95 between Melbourne and viera all smokey. Visibility is decent."
Another added, "I work at Gordon food services and it’s so smoky on 192 . Prayers."
A third resident wrote, "Fountainhead neighborhood in Melbourne has ALOT of smoke in it.... near Dustins BBQ."
Another person asked, “Okay I'm here at work on Palm Bay road and I smell smoke really bad something is on fire badddd.... Does anyone know whats goin on?”
Another resident wrote, "Yeah I left to run to hair cuttery/publix at heritage square and I come out and it’s super smokey. Pace is really bad."
Also Read: Jackson synagogue fire: First info on Mississippi arson suspect out; big update on motive
Some residents reported a controlled prescribed burn on Merritt Island covering up to 1,300 acres, which may be contributing to smoke in parts of Brevard County.
One resident reported on Facebook, "For those concerned about the burning i called to confirm, its a controlled burn just the wind is carrying the smoke everywhere. This is what the non emergency line confirmed but it seems there are multiple fires. One at the apartment building near Henry Ave, a house fire in cocoa, an industrial building closer to the coast and then the control fire at the wild refuge. It makes sense with the amount of smoke and the wind why palm bay is severely covered."
Authorities have not yet officially confirmed the same.
More information is expected as officials continue to assess the situation.
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – As the countdown to 2026 draws near, venues across the Space Coast are gearing up to deliver an unforgettable New Year’s Eve filled with live music, dancing, and celebrations that stretch late into the night. Whether you’re looking for jazz sophistication, high-energy rock, beach-side vibes, or a casual night out with friends, there’s a party waiting to help you welcome the new year.Cadillac Cove kicks off the festivities at 8:30 p.m. with a New Year’s Eve...
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – As the countdown to 2026 draws near, venues across the Space Coast are gearing up to deliver an unforgettable New Year’s Eve filled with live music, dancing, and celebrations that stretch late into the night.
Whether you’re looking for jazz sophistication, high-energy rock, beach-side vibes, or a casual night out with friends, there’s a party waiting to help you welcome the new year.
Cadillac Cove kicks off the festivities at 8:30 p.m. with a New Year’s Eve Party featuring the Mixtape Kids, promising an upbeat mix of favorites designed to keep the dance floor moving all night. Earl’s Hideaway brings American Highway to the stage at 8 p.m., blending classic rock energy with a lively party crowd.
Over at Lou’s Blues, the evening starts early with karaoke at 5 p.m., then amps up at 8:30 p.m. when Short Circuit takes over as the NYE party rolls into full swing.
Heidi’s Jazz Club offers one of the classiest celebrations in town, beginning at 6 p.m. with Robby King before shifting to an elegant late-night New Year’s party at 8:30 p.m., featuring the Ron Teixeira Trio with vocalist Crystal Clarke.
Tide & Tonic sets the mood with smooth beach-style jazz for a relaxed and stylish send-off to the year.
Social Distance hosts a 6 p.m. celebration with Karalyn & The Dawn Patrol, creating a lively atmosphere for those who want to start the night early.
For beach lovers, Sandbar brings the party at 9 p.m. with Love Valley leading the music as partygoers ring in the new year oceanside.
Key West Bar keeps things festive with its own New Year’s Eve party, while Cocoa Beach Fish Camp plans to join the celebration lineup as well, with more details still to come.
For dancers, The Creek offers free dance lessons from 7 to 9 p.m., followed by line dancing, creating a lively way to step into the new year. Tide & Tonic sets the scene with smooth beach jazz for those looking for a more relaxed evening.
Another standout option comes aboard Victory Casino Cruises, which is hosting special New Year’s Eve AM and PM cruises.
For $95 per person, each cruise includes boarding, an open bar, a VIP entrée featuring filet mignon and red snapper, a champagne toast, party favors and DJ entertainment. Guests can also take part in a “slot win or your money back” year-end promotion, along with New Year’s Eve hot seat drawings offering chances to win $200 in free slot or match play every hour. Reservations are available online or by phone.
If your business or restaurant is hosting a New Year’s Eve Party, send your information via email to contact@spacecoastdaily.com.