VA loan in Cumberland, NC

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 Cumberland, NC?

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 Cumberland, NC

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 Cumberland, NC?

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 Cumberland, NC 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 Cumberland, NC.
  • 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 Cumberland, NC

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 Cumberland, NC

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 Cumberland, NC. 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 Cumberland, NC

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?

Call Us Now! (843)822-5685

Latest News Near Me Cumberland, NC

PROPOSED EAST CENTRAL WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT

The Public Utilities Department is requesting that the Board of Commissioners establish a Water and Sewer District for the Cedar Creek community for the purpose of applying for grants and low-interest rate loans. The first step in this process is to hold a public hearing pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 162A-86 to receive comments from the public. The Cedar Creek community has been impacted with contaminated wells due to PFAS from the Fayetteville Works Site. This contamination poses health and safety concerns for the community....

The Public Utilities Department is requesting that the Board of Commissioners establish a Water and Sewer District for the Cedar Creek community for the purpose of applying for grants and low-interest rate loans. The first step in this process is to hold a public hearing pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 162A-86 to receive comments from the public. The Cedar Creek community has been impacted with contaminated wells due to PFAS from the Fayetteville Works Site. This contamination poses health and safety concerns for the community.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing at 6:45 p.m., Tuesday, January 20, 2026, in Room 118 in the Cumberland County Courthouse located at 117 Dick Street, Fayetteville, NC, to consider creating a Water and Sewer District for the East Central area pursuant to NCGS 162A-86. The proposed district is generally described as follows:

The proposed East Central Water and Sewer district begins at the intersection of Maxwell Road (NCSR-1006) and the Cumberland and Sampson County boundary line thence proceeds southerly along the Cumberland and Sampson County boundary line to its intersection with Hollow Bridge Road (NCSR-2030); thence westerly along Hollow Bridge Road to its southern-most intersection with Ava Road (NCSR-2028); thence westerly along Ava Road to its intersection with NC Highway 210; thence northwesterly along NC Highway 210 to its intersection with Macedonia Church Road (NCSR-2014); thence northwesterly along Macedonia Church Road to its intersection with John B Carter Road (NCSR-2010); thence northwesterly along John B Carter Road to its intersection with Maxwell Road; thence northeasterly along Maxwell Road to its intersection with the Cumberland and Sampson County boundary line, the point and place of beginning.

The official map and list of all parcels within the proposed East Central Water and Sewer District are available for inspection during normal business hours at the County Public Utilities Department, 698 Ann Street, Fayetteville, NC. This information can also be found on the Public Utilities website at www.cumberlandcountync.gov/utility.

The Board of Commissioners will hear all interested parties with respect to the proposed water and sewer district

Construction begins on an outdoor concert venue in Brunswick

Construction on an outdoor event venue in Brunswick County has begun.As Brunswick residents yearn for more local entertainment facilities, pre-construction zoning permits have been issued, and construction is starting for an outdoor event venue in rural Brunswick.New Hanover County residents Peter Higgins and Steve Shuttleworth are hoping to soon open the Brunswick concert venue, named Cumberland Woods, just outside Bolivia. The venue will sit on a portion of the 212-acre Arnold Tract at 1011 Galloway Road NE, near Tobes Road....

Construction on an outdoor event venue in Brunswick County has begun.

As Brunswick residents yearn for more local entertainment facilities, pre-construction zoning permits have been issued, and construction is starting for an outdoor event venue in rural Brunswick.

New Hanover County residents Peter Higgins and Steve Shuttleworth are hoping to soon open the Brunswick concert venue, named Cumberland Woods, just outside Bolivia. The venue will sit on a portion of the 212-acre Arnold Tract at 1011 Galloway Road NE, near Tobes Road.

Higgins called the project a "passion project" because of his and Shuttleworth's love for music.

"Our beautiful 350 acres of woodlands and lakes will offer music venues, event facilities, hiking trails and other outdoor activities," the venue website states. "We are currently in phase one development."

Construction of outdoor music venue in Brunswick County to begin soon. Here's what to know

What are the plans for Cumberland Woods?

Approved site plans show the venue taking up only 27.8 acres with a grass parking area holding around 382 parking spaces. A majority of the event space will either be unpaved or have pervious surfaces.

A nearly 1,500-square-foot stage, 288-square-foot concession stand, 320-square-foot green room and storage building are part of the project. Once built, plans show the stage facing away from the road and toward a cleared area surrounded by trees.

Bathrooms, walkways and wooden fencing are also included in the plans.

The facility will be family-focused and "different" from surrounding concert venues, Higgins said. For example, customers will not be served liquor, only beer and wine, and lawn seating will be the primary seat option.

"We want it to be where people feel comfortable, we want you to bring your kids and they can be turned loose," Higgins said.

Performances held at the venue will be "tailored" to what the community wants to hear, such as older tribute bands, local music artists and national touring acts, Higgins said.

Will there be rules?

Special use permit conditions for the project state all performances must end by 11 p.m. and noise levels are not to exceed 70 decibels. Food sales will also be restricted to facility customers only, food sales are not allowed off the premise.

A 50-foot natural buffer will also be required on the eastern and western sides of the property, including along the property line abutting residential homes on Tobes Road.

While the special use permit conditions do not have rules on parking, plans note the parking area will have parking attendants during events.

What should we know about the property?

County tax records show Lymm Holdings, LLC, has owned Arnold Tract since 2022 and the property has been zoned for commercial low density use since at least 2021. The company also owns the neighboring 139.78-acre property on McKoy Georgetown Road. Vacant land and homes surround the two properties.

Holden Creek runs through Arnold Tract. A 2023 environmental evaluation located wetland areas throughout the property, including in the venue area. No building or impervious surfaces, such as cement, are located on these wetland areas, per the plans.

Is there an open date?

The event website shows the venue originally planned to open in spring 2023, but delays pushed the opening to 2025. However, the facility remains unopened in December 2025.

The property was zoned for an indoor music facility, but not an outdoor one, Higgins explained. Zoning and permitting processes have taken more time than anticipated, said Higgins, noting the facility was a first for the county.

"It has been a long journey," Higgins said.

Foundations are being set and construction is starting, the owners said. The bathroom construction is to begin sometime before Jan. 1 and main stage building will follow, Higgins added.

"We're looking to open mid-May, 2026," said Higgins, noting a grand opening is being discussed.

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Savanna Tenenoff covers Brunswick County for the StarNews. Reach her at.

2025 Cumberland County Holiday Classic brackets, seeding

Dec. 8, 2025Updated Dec. 10, 2025, 12:11 p.m. ETThis story will be updated with results after each round.The holiday season has arrived, and that means it's time for Cumberland County's annual Holiday Classic for girls' and boys' high school basketball.All 10 Fayetteville-area public high schools play in the annual basketball tournament, and all 24 games are split between South View and E.E. Smith, aside from the play-in games that are played at the higher seed on Dec. 13, and the championship will be held at Do...

Dec. 8, 2025Updated Dec. 10, 2025, 12:11 p.m. ET

This story will be updated with results after each round.

The holiday season has arrived, and that means it's time for Cumberland County's annual Holiday Classic for girls' and boys' high school basketball.

All 10 Fayetteville-area public high schools play in the annual basketball tournament, and all 24 games are split between South View and E.E. Smith, aside from the play-in games that are played at the higher seed on Dec. 13, and the championship will be held at Douglas Byrd.

The first round of the classic will begin on Thursday, Dec. 18, with the second round on Friday, Dec. 19, and the championship round on Saturday, Dec. 20, along with consolation brackets.

In the girls bracket, Terry Sanford secured the No. 1 seed after starting the season 1-2, and Seventy-First holds the top seed for the boys' bracket.

Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!

Here is the full 24-game slate for the 2025 Cumberland County Holiday Classic:

2025 Cumberland County Holiday Classic schedule

GIRLS BRACKET

Saturday, Dec. 13 — Play-in at higher seed

Thursday, Dec. 18 — First round at E.E. Smith

Friday, Dec. 19 — Second round (Consolation bracket) at E.E. Smith

Friday, Dec. 19 — Second round (Championship bracket) at E.E. Smith

Saturday, Dec. 20 (Consolation bracket) at E.E. Smith

Saturday, Dec. 20 (Championship bracket) at E.E. Smith

BOYS BRACKET

Saturday, Dec. 13 — Play-in at higher seed

Thursday, Dec. 18 — First round at South View

Friday, Dec. 19 — Second round (Consolation bracket) at South View

Friday, Dec. 19 — Second round (Championship bracket) at South View

Saturday, Dec. 20 (Consolation bracket) at South View

Saturday, Dec. 20 (Championship bracket) at Douglas Byrd

Cumberland County, N.C., Names Innovation, Tech Director

Cumberland County, home to the city of Fayetteville and one of North Carolina’s most populous counties, has named Daniel Rister its permanent chief innovation and technology services (ITS) director.Rister had been serving as interim director since July 30, following the retirement of former ITS Director Keith Todd.He now officially takes the helm of Cumberland County’s technology operations, overseeing strategic initiatives ranging from digital modernization to cybersecurity and infrastructure improvements across al...

Cumberland County, home to the city of Fayetteville and one of North Carolina’s most populous counties, has named Daniel Rister its permanent chief innovation and technology services (ITS) director.

Rister had been serving as interim director since July 30, following the retirement of former ITS Director Keith Todd.

He now officially takes the helm of Cumberland County’s technology operations, overseeing strategic initiatives ranging from digital modernization to cybersecurity and infrastructure improvements across all departments. The position consolidates responsibilities typically held by a CIO and places Rister at the center of technology strategy — a familiar place for the 26-year Cumberland County veteran.

Rister began his county career in its Department of Social Services in September 1999 before joining the Innovation and Technology Services Department in 2012. Prior to becoming interim ITS director, he had most recently served as deputy ITS director.

He earned an associate degree from Fayetteville Technical Community College and a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Elizabeth City State University. Rister completed the University of North Carolina’s Certified Government Chief Information Officer program in 2021.

County Manager Clarence Grier highlighted Rister’s long tenure and deep knowledge of county operations in a statement, saying the new director “brings decades of experience and a deep understanding of Cumberland County’s operational and technology environment,” and that Rister’s “leadership and commitment to innovation will help guide technology strategy forward and continue improving services for residents and staff.”

Rister emphasized his commitment to building on existing projects and working across departments.

“Throughout my career, I’ve worked alongside many of Cumberland County’s dedicated teams,” he said in a statement. “I look forward to building on that work, supporting collaboration, modernizing systems and advancing solutions that strengthen services for our community.”

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