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 Hillsborough, 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.
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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 Hillsborough, 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.
Eight approved local air programs conduct ambient air monitoring and take lead responsibility for air compliance and enforcement activities in their counties. Six of these programs are also delegated air permitting authority for most types of air pollution sources. Click the map to view a larger version (PDF file).Public Works and Environmental Services DepartmentNatural Resources Division115 S. Andrews Ave., Room 329HFort Lauderdale, FL 33301954-519-1270Ed Ball Building214 N. Hogan St., Fifth FloorJacksonville, FL 32202Phone: ...
Eight approved local air programs conduct ambient air monitoring and take lead responsibility for air compliance and enforcement activities in their counties. Six of these programs are also delegated air permitting authority for most types of air pollution sources. Click the map to view a larger version (PDF file).
Public Works and Environmental Services DepartmentNatural Resources Division115 S. Andrews Ave., Room 329HFort Lauderdale, FL 33301954-519-1270
Ed Ball Building214 N. Hogan St., Fifth FloorJacksonville, FL 32202Phone: 904-255-7100Fax: 904-255-7130
Chief: Melissa Long | melissal@coj.netAir Branch Manager: Mike Williams | mcwilliams@coj.netAsbestos: Asbestos Group | asbestos@coj.netPermitting: airpermitting@coj.netCompliance: aircompliance@coj.net
3629 Queen Palm DriveTampa, FL 33619-1309813-627-2600
Director: Diana Lee | lee@epchc.orgAsbestos: Jeff Sims | simsj@epchc.orgAsbestos: Josh Calero | caleroj@epchc.orgPermitting: Lora Webb | webbl@epchc.orgCompliance: Sahand Nasseri | nasseris@epchc.org
701 N.W. First Court, Suite 200Miami, FL 33136305-372-6925
Division Chief: Susana Palomino | Susana.Palomino@miamidade.govAir Facilities Section Chief: Elsa Cabrejo | Elsa.cabrejo@miamidade.govPermitting: Rick Garcia | manuel.garcia3@miamidade.govCompliance: Jorge Cano Salom | jorge.canosalom@miamidade.gov
3165 McCrory Place, Suite 200Orlando, FL 32803-3727407-836-1400
Regulatory Compliance Program Coordinator: Wanda Parker | Wanda.Parker@ocfl.netCompliance: Ilka Bundy | Ilka.Bundy@ocfl.netAsbestos: John Parker | John.Parker@ocfl.netPermitting: Rovindra Churaman | Rovindra.Churaman@ocfl.net
800 Clematis St., Fourth FloorWest Palm Beach, FL 33401P.O. Box 29West Palm Beach, Florida 33402-0029Phone 561-837-5900Fax: 561-837-5295
Administrator: Laxmana Tallam | Laxmana.Tallam@flhealth.govAsbestos: epost_asbestos_sepb@flhealth.govPermitting: Javeria Lara Real | epost_air_sepb@flhealth.govCompliance: epost_air_sepb@flhealth.govEnforcement & Complaints Coordinator: epost_air_sepb@flhealth.gov
509 East Avenue S., Suite 138Clearwater, FL 33756Phone: 727-464-4422Fax: 727-464-4420
Environmental Division Manager: Sheila Schneider | sschneider@pinellascounty.orgAsbestos: Adam Kiehn | akiehn@pinellas.gov | asbestos@pinellas.gov Compliance: Chris Brodeur | cbrodeur@pinellascounty.org | airquality@pinellas.gov
1001 Sarasota Center Blvd.Sarasota, FL 34240Phone: 941-861-5000Fax: 941-861-6267
Manager: Dr. Maria Irianni Renno | mirenno@scgov.net Air Monitoring: Ann McCarthy | amccarthy@scgov.netAsbestos: Faith Oladejo | foladejo@scgov.netAsbestos: Matthew Dodd | mdodd@scgov.netPermitting/Compliance: Lucy Dobson | ldobson@scgov.netPermitting/Compliance: Michael Storino | mstorino@scgov.net
The Compass Program helps clients find the support they need to reach their health-related goals. That might be help finding food or groceries, a program to help you find a job, a resource for rent or utility assistance, or classes to learn new language skills.Compass can also help you find:The Compass Program works with you to find the services that fit your needs. Although the Compass program does not provide services directly, we can help you find the programs that do.I speak a...
The Compass Program helps clients find the support they need to reach their health-related goals. That might be help finding food or groceries, a program to help you find a job, a resource for rent or utility assistance, or classes to learn new language skills.
Compass can also help you find:
The Compass Program works with you to find the services that fit your needs.
Although the Compass program does not provide services directly, we can help you find the programs that do.
Yes. We have a translation service that we can use to speak to you in your preferred language.
Compass is for people who receive services through the Florida Department of Health. If you’re not sure if that includes you, we can still talk with you to see how we can help.
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Drowning is preventable! Florida remains #1 in the nation for drowning deaths of children 4 years of age and under. Use of barriers and adult supervision can help prevent drowning and near-drowning.
Drowning and near-drowning, which can result in devastating long-term health consequences, can happen inside the home, too. Adult supervision of children around any open water, like pools, spas, lakes/rivers, beaches, standing water in yards, buckets of water, and bathtubs is the 1st line of defense.
Don’t let your child be a statistic! Visit WaterSmart FL for more information about prevention and for the residential pool laws and regulations.
AA Florida, a state-wide recovery resource devoted to supporting the men and women of Florida. AA Florida helps individuals struggling with alcoholism find the help they need on a local basis. Discover Florida Alcoholics Anonymous meetings per county or city, and take the next step to overcome alcohol addiction.
A free addiction resource. We are a fellowship of recovering addicts or families who dedicate their lives to providing direction and support for families in need of advice on recovery options. Our services are free of charge. Our substance abuse counselors are able to provide general over-the-phone assessments to our clients with the purpose of matching an addict’s needs with the appropriate method of treatment – a vital step very often neglected. Let us help you connect the dots.
A free resource to find Drug & Alcohol Rehab Centers in Florida. Finding the right Florida drug and alcohol rehab center can be daunting, but if you’re ready to find a recovery center, Rehabs.org can help.
2815 E. Henry Ave., Ste. B1,Tampa, FL 33610813-238-4034
Vision Center is an informational web guide created for those seeking LASIK eye surgery and other cosmetic vision correction options. Topics include but are not limited to Aging and Eyesight and Presbyopia (Age-Related Farsightedness) & Seniors.
Affordable Health Insurance.com is an informational web guide. See how you can get affordable health insurance in Florida, including marketplace plans, Medicare, and Medicaid.
Each year, thousands of Floridians quit using tobacco. Many more try, but fail. The Florida Quitline was established to help those with a desire to free themselves from cigarettes, smokeless, and all other forms of tobacco. The Quitline services are free of charge and offered in both English and Spanish.
Here’s how it works: