VA loan in Columbia, SC

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.

What is a VA Loan in Columbia, SC?

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:

  • Single-Family Homes
  • Condominiums
  • Multi-Unit Properties
  • Manufactured Homes
  • New Construction Homes

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.

Va Mortgages Columbia, SC

This program was created by the federal government to make it easier for those who have served our country to become homeowners, and it is widely considered the strongest benefit program available for this purpose.

What are the Biggest Benefits of Having a VA Loan in Columbia, SC?

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

Benefit:

No Down Payment Needed

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

Benefit:

Less Strict Credit Requirements

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 Columbia, SC are designed to help military members and veterans access affordable housing.

05

Benefit:

Help with Closing Costs

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

Benefit:

No Need for Private Mortgage Insurance

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

Benefit:

Bankruptcy and Foreclosure

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

Benefit:

DTI Ratio Flexibility

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.

How to Determine Your VA Loan Eligibility

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.

  • If you have completed 90 days of service during wartime or 181 days of service during peacetime, you may qualify as an active-duty military member or veteran.
  • If you have served in the National Guard or Reserve for a minimum of six years, or have completed 90 days of active duty under Title 32 orders, with at least 30 of them being consecutive, you may be eligible for a VA loan in Columbia, SC.
  • If your spouse was a service member who passed away while on active duty or due to a service-connected disability, and you haven't remarried, you may be eligible for a VA loan. In some cases, surviving spouses who remarried after the age of 57 and after Dec. 16, 2003, may also be eligible. Spouses of prisoners of war or service members missing in action may also be eligible for VA loans, as well.
  • You meet the necessary requirements for credit and income to be eligible for a VA loan. It's important to note that while the VA doesn't set a minimum credit score for VA loans, individual lenders may have their own standards. In addition to credit, your lender will also evaluate your income and debts to assess your ability to repay the mortgage.
  • The property you're interested in purchasing complies with the necessary safety standards and building codes. It's also worth mentioning that in most cases, the borrower is required to make the residence their primary home within 60 days of purchase. However, there are certain circumstances in which this timeline can be extended up to 12 months.
HomeReady Mortgages Columbia, SC

Follow These 5 Steps to Begin the VA Home Loan Process

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.

Home Ready Mortgages Columbia, SC

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 Columbia, 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.

A Word of Advice from Mission One Mortgage

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.

What Clients Say About Us

The Key to Homeownership Starts with a VA Loan in Columbia, SC

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.

Want to know more?

Clarify your Queries Call Us Now! (843)822-5685

Latest News Near Me Columbia, SC

Gamecocks Host NCAA Tournament Play This Weekend

COLUMBIA, SC – No. 4/4 South Carolina opens play in the NCAA Tournament on Sat., March 21, at Colonial Life Arena. The Gamecocks will play the winner of the First Four game between Southern and Samford in a 1 p.m. tipoff on ABC. vs. Gamecock NotablesBy the Numbers7 – Multiple Gamecocks have earned All-America status for the seventh-straight season.9 – South Carolina has posted at least 30 wins in nine of the last 12 season...

COLUMBIA, SC – No. 4/4 South Carolina opens play in the NCAA Tournament on Sat., March 21, at Colonial Life Arena. The Gamecocks will play the winner of the First Four game between Southern and Samford in a 1 p.m. tipoff on ABC.

vs.

Gamecock Notables

By the Numbers7 – Multiple Gamecocks have earned All-America status for the seventh-straight season.

9 – South Carolina has posted at least 30 wins in nine of the last 12 seasons, including each of the last five.

12 – Senior Raven Johnson needs 12 points to reach 1,000 in her career.

Gamecocks Against the FieldThis season, South Carolina has faced 13 of the 68 teams in the NCAA Tournament field, four of which are also in the Sacramento 4 Region, including both of its potential second-round opponents. The Gamecocks went 13-3 against those 13 teams.

In addition to their nine league rivals in the field – Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, LSU, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Texas, Vanderbilt – South Carolina played non-conference games against Clemson, vs. Southern Cal, vs. Duke and at Louisville.

The 13 teams include a No. 1 seed, two No. 2 seeds, two No. 3 seeds, a No. 4 seed, two No. 5 seeds, a No. 6 seed, a No. 7 seed, a No. 8 seed, a No. 9 seed and a No. 11 seed.

Home Sweet HomeThe Gamecocks are 562-168 (.770) in home games (some records prior to 1976-77 did not include location of games). Current head coach Dawn Staley is 250-35 at home for a program-best .877 winning percentage.

Playing in its 24th season at Colonial Life Arena, South Carolina boasts a 313-68 (.822) record in the building, including four undefeated seasons since 2013-14. Staley’s share of that record is 247-35 (.876).

South Carolina is 28-5 (.848) in postseason play at home, including a 20-8 (.714) mark at Colonial Life Arena. The Gamecocks are 21-2 (.913) in NCAA Tournament games at home.

Tournament TalkSouth Carolina is in its 22nd NCAA Tournament and its 14th straight under head coach Dawn Staley. The Gamecocks are 55-18 overall in the event with 15 Sweet 16 appearances, nine Elite Eight seasons, seven Final Four showings and three National Championships.

The Gamecocks have been a regional No. 1 seed 10 times, including three seasons as the overall No. 1 seed (2022, 2023, 2024). They are 39-5 as a No. 1 seed.

In her 26th season as a head coach, Staley has taken a team to the NCAA Tournament 20 times. She is 49-16 at the event, including a 47-10 mark at South Carolina and a 21-2 mark over the last four tournaments.

All-American GirlsA trio of Gamecocks have received All-America honors this season, led by forward Joyce Edwards who has been on every list’s second team. She is just the eighth Gamecock sophomore all-time to earn All-America status, most recently joining Staley-era greats Aliyah Boston (2021), A’ja Wilson (2016) and Tiffany Mitchell (2014).

Senior Raven Johnson earned third-team honors from the Associated Press and honorable mention nods from USA Today and the USBWA. It is the first season she has received the label.

Senior Ta’Niya Latson claimed All-America recognition for the fourth straight season as she drew honorable mention honors from the Associated Press.

This season marks the seventh-straight that multiple Gamecocks have earned All-America status.

Bill regulating THC drinks, gummies clears key hurdle in SC Senate

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - A bill regulating hemp products in South Carolina cleared its hurdle inside the state Senate after weeks of discussion and debate.Wednesday night, Senators failed to pass the hemp regulation bill, leaving it’s future uncertain, but then revived it on Thursday evening.Senators then passed an amended bill on Thursday under a deal that would allow low-potency, canned THC beverages to be sold at retail stores that have beer and wine licenses. Those beverages could include up to five milligrams of THC in...

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - A bill regulating hemp products in South Carolina cleared its hurdle inside the state Senate after weeks of discussion and debate.

Wednesday night, Senators failed to pass the hemp regulation bill, leaving it’s future uncertain, but then revived it on Thursday evening.

Senators then passed an amended bill on Thursday under a deal that would allow low-potency, canned THC beverages to be sold at retail stores that have beer and wine licenses. Those beverages could include up to five milligrams of THC in a 12 oz. can and would need to be kept behind a counter.

Under the bill, higher-potency drinks like 12 oz. cans with up to 10 milligrams of THC, and 750 milliliter bottles would be allowed to be sold at liquor stores alongside gummies. The gummies, restricted to packs of four that are 10 milligrams each of THC, 40 milligrams total in a pack, would also need to be kept behind the counter at liquor stores.

“That’s the number one thing,” said Sen. Michael Johnson (R-York). “We want to regulate this product, make sure those who shouldn’t be around it aren’t and so that was the entire intent of today.”

“We are going to force alcoholics into liquor stores to get gummies,” said Sen. Ed Sutton (D-Charleston). “I think that is a very bad mistake.”

The measure would still need to formally pass the Senate through a third reading on Tuesday. The amended bill would then need to pass the South Carolina House of Representatives, which struggled to pass its own hemp regulations earlier this year.

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Columbia prison opens first-of-its-kind vertical farm aimed at teaching inmates agricultural skills

The South Carolina Department of Corrections announced the opening of the first vertical farm inside a U.S. prison, launching a new agricultural training initiative at the Camille Graham Correctional Institute in Columbia.The four-container vertical farm, developed through a partnership with nonprofits Impact Justice and farm equipment manufacturer AmplifiedAg, is expected to produce more than 40,000 pounds of fresh produce annually. The harvest will be used to supply the prison, as well as low-income communities, with crops grown and...

The South Carolina Department of Corrections announced the opening of the first vertical farm inside a U.S. prison, launching a new agricultural training initiative at the Camille Graham Correctional Institute in Columbia.

The four-container vertical farm, developed through a partnership with nonprofits Impact Justice and farm equipment manufacturer AmplifiedAg, is expected to produce more than 40,000 pounds of fresh produce annually. The harvest will be used to supply the prison, as well as low-income communities, with crops grown and maintained by incarcerated women.

The workforce development project aims to bring modern agricultural practices into rehabilitation programs inside prisons. Program participants will get classroom instruction and hands-on training, officials said at the project’s unveiling March 19.

Leaders said the initiative is designed to increase access to nutritional foods within the facility and give prisoners a chance to learn employable skills, including operating and maintaining advanced farming systems.

Impact Justice CEO Alex Busansky hopes the vertical farm will be a catalyst for “a national movement” to prove that these farms work, create opportunities and improve lives.

The organization will also work with S.C. agribusiness partners to help connect inmates with job opportunities upon release. The goal is to create a pipeline to employment.

The opening was attended by S.C. Department of Corrections Director Joel Anderson, S.C. Department of Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers and AmplifiedAg CEO Dave Flynn.

The farm is built out of retrofitted shipping containers and outfitted with LED grow lights, climate control systems and vertical growing racks. Crops such as leafy greens and herbs can be grown in the controlled environment. Vertical farming is the process of growing groups in vertical layers within an enclosed environment, using soilless systems like hydroponics. Vertical farms enable year-round high crop yield with up to 95 percent less water and significantly less land.

The greens grown in the vertical farms mature within a 36-day period, as opposed to the average 55 days in a traditional field.

Two other farms in Oakland and Chowchilla, California, are poised to receive a similar system. A third farm will be opened at the Impact Justice office in Oakland, as well.

Officials emphasized that programs like this play a role in reducing recidivism rates — or someone returning to prison after release — by providing practical skills and a sense of purpose. They hope the initiative will serve as a model for programs nationwide.

WOMEN IN PUBLISHING SUMMIT BRINGS WIP LIVE CONFERENCE TO COLUMBIA, SC

Celebrating Women’s History Month with an Immersive Business Conference for Women Authors and Publishing Professionals — March 26–28, 2026 • Columbia, SCCOLUMBIA, SC, UNITED STATES, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The Women in Publishing Summit announces the inaugural in-person WIP LIVE: #WIPCON conference, March 26–28, 2026, at the Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC—a deliberate choice to honor Women’s History Month! Founded to amplify women’s voices, Women i...

Celebrating Women’s History Month with an Immersive Business Conference for Women Authors and Publishing Professionals — March 26–28, 2026 • Columbia, SC

COLUMBIA, SC, UNITED STATES, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The Women in Publishing Summit announces the inaugural in-person WIP LIVE: #WIPCON conference, March 26–28, 2026, at the Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC—a deliberate choice to honor Women’s History Month! Founded to amplify women’s voices, Women in Publishing Summit was built on the belief that women who have a story to tell deserve every resource, connection, and strategy necessary to bring that work into the world at full volume. With 35,000+ email subscribers, 8,000+ Facebook group members, 1,000+ annual virtual summit attendees, and 200,000+ podcast downloads, WIP has become one of the most engaged communities in independent publishing. WIPCON is its fullest in-person expression.

“WIPCON was built differently. You leave with work done—content created, collaborations identified, a revenue strategy mapped. Not plans. Results.” —Alexa Bigwarfe, Founder A Working Conference — Not a Passive One WIPCON is not a traditional writing or publishing conference. Over 2.5 days, women authors and publishing professionals stop consuming and start building — leaving with real content, a mapped revenue strategy, identified collaboration partners, and a 90-day action plan.

Thursday, March 26: Welcome Happy Hour and networking mixer (6:00–8:00 PM)

Friday, March 27: LEARN: Expert-led sessions on storytelling, social media strategy, visibility, and revenue — closing with the Genius Games, an interactive experience to identify strengths and collaboration partners.

Saturday, March 28 — BUILD: Small-group implementation labs with the same experts: Social Media and; Content, Sales and Collaboration, and Visibility and Speaking. Closes with a 90-Day Collaborative Action Plan.

Sunday, March 29 — VIP Day (capped at 15): 1:1 strategy sessions, mentorship, and content filming.

Featured Speakers: Alexa Bigwarfe • Porsché Mysticque • Julie Lokun • April Pertuis • Tayler Simon • Annette Flavel • Cayce LaCorte • Raewyn Sangari • Jennifer Wilkov • Tara Abbott • Parchelle and; Portia Michele Osumaré.

Event Details: Dates: March 26–28, 2026 • Location: Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC, 630 Assembly St, Columbia, SC 29201

Tickets: $347 General Admission • Register: writepublishsell.thrivecart.com/wincon-26/ Info: womeninpublishingsummit.com/columbia • Media: support@womeninpublishingsummit.com

About Women in Publishing Summit: Founded by Alexa Bigwarfe, Women in Publishing Summit exists to amplify women’s voices, elevate women’s stories, and build a community where women in publishing are better together. WIP hosts an annual virtual summit with 40+ workshops, monthly programming, and a growing ecosystem of resources for authors and publishing professionals at every stage.

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EIN Presswire provides this news content “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.

FIRST ALERT: Midlands school changes for potential severe weather on Monday

NOTE: The above video is a livestream of WIS featuring current newscasts, Soda City Living and Gray Media’s Local News Live.COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Several Midlands school districts have announced school closures and eLearning days for Monday due to potential severe weather across the region.LEXINGTON 3Lexington County School District Three announced it will shift to an eLearning Day due to potential severe weather on Monday.The district says there will be no work for students to do on Mo...

NOTE: The above video is a livestream of WIS featuring current newscasts, Soda City Living and Gray Media’s Local News Live.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Several Midlands school districts have announced school closures and eLearning days for Monday due to potential severe weather across the region.

LEXINGTON 3

Lexington County School District Three announced it will shift to an eLearning Day due to potential severe weather on Monday.

The district says there will be no work for students to do on Monday. Instead, students will receive their make-up eLearning assignments on Tuesday, March 17th. Students will have the option to complete their eLearning assignments on their own time. All assignments will be due by no later than Thursday, April 2nd.

All after-school events, including sports practices, sports games, meetings, adult education classes, etc., scheduled for Monday, March 16th, are cancelled.

LEXINGTON ONE

Lexington One is switching to eLearning on Monday, March 16, 2026

All after-school events and activities are canceled, and campuses are also closed for the day.

You can click here to review the district’s eLearning guidelines and directions.

LEXINGTON TWO

Lexington Two is closing all offices and schools on Monday, March 16.

All afternoon and evening activities are also canceled on Monday, including athletic events, extracurricular activities, after-school programs, and adult education classes.

DISTRICT 5 OF LEXINGTON AND RICHLAND COUNTIES

LR5 will not have school due to previous scheduling.

ORANGEBURG COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Orangeburg County School District will observe an eLearning Day. All after-school programs, extracurricular activities, athletic practices, and games scheduled for tomorrow are canceled due to the expected weather conditions.

LEE COUNTY

Lee County School District has designated Monday, March 16, 2026, as an eLearning Day.

KERSHAW COUNTY

Kershaw County School District is shifting to an e-Learning Day for Monday. All Monday after-school activities and sporting events are also cancelled.

WIS will update this article with more school changes once announced.

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