Guidance through your VA loan benefit.
If you're an eligible service member, veteran, or surviving spouse, we'll help you understand how the VA loan program may fit — with the same attentive service we bring to every client.
Plain-language overview.
A VA-backed loan is a mortgage made by a private lender and partially backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA does not make the loan; a private lender does, using its own credit, income, and property underwriting alongside VA program rules.
Eligibility involves a Certificate of Eligibility issued by the VA and lender requirements applied to your file. The property is generally intended for occupancy by the eligible borrower as a primary residence. A one-time funding fee may apply, with exemptions in specific circumstances.
VA backing does not guarantee borrower approval. Salon Lending Group is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency.
Situations that often fit.
- Purchasing a primary residence as an eligible service member, veteran, or surviving spouse
- Refinancing an existing VA loan
- Considering a first-time use of the VA loan benefit
- Exploring whether the VA program fits alongside your other financing options
Worth thinking through.
- Eligibility requires a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA and separate lender review
- The property must generally be occupied by the eligible borrower as a primary residence
- A one-time VA funding fee may apply; exemptions apply in some cases
- VA appraisal and property requirements apply and can affect the transaction
- Program rules and amounts are set by the VA and can change; current figures are confirmed at application
- VA backing does not guarantee borrower approval
What we review with you.
- Your eligibility and COE status, and how to obtain one if needed
- How the VA program compares to conventional or FHA financing for your situation
- Occupancy and property considerations, including the VA appraisal process
- Whether a funding-fee exemption may apply
- Documentation typically needed for a VA-backed loan
- A realistic timeline from application through closing
From first conversation to closing.
- 01
Consultation
A private conversation about eligibility, goals, and whether the VA program fits your situation.
- 02
Eligibility & strategy
Support obtaining or confirming your COE, plus a review of loan options and structure.
- 03
Secure application
Application and documentation move through our secure borrower portal.
- 04
Appraisal to closing
VA appraisal, underwriting, and coordination with your real-estate team through funding.
Read a fuller walk-through on our process page.
Frequently asked questions
What is a VA loan?
- A VA-backed loan is a mortgage made by a private lender and partially backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VA backing changes how the loan is guaranteed to the lender; it does not make the VA the lender.
Who is eligible?
- Eligibility is determined by the VA and generally requires a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) based on qualifying service. Surviving spouses may be eligible under specific circumstances. The lender then applies its own credit, income, and property requirements.
Does the VA guarantee I will be approved?
- No. VA backing does not guarantee borrower approval. The lender still reviews credit, income, property, and other underwriting factors, and the property itself must meet VA requirements.
Does a VA loan require me to live in the home?
- Generally, yes — VA-backed loans are intended for a property occupied by the eligible borrower as a primary residence. There are limited exceptions; we can discuss whether any apply to your situation.
What is the VA funding fee?
- The VA funding fee is a one-time fee that helps support the program. The amount depends on factors such as service category, down payment, and whether it is your first use of the benefit. Some borrowers are exempt from the funding fee. Current amounts are set by the VA and change periodically.
Can I refinance an existing VA loan?
- In many cases, yes. There are refinance options structured specifically for existing VA loans, as well as standard refinance options. We can review which, if any, fit your situation.
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Ready to have a conversation?
Every situation is different. A private conversation is the best way to see whether this option is the right fit.
You'll complete your application and securely provide financial information through our borrower portal.
VA loan benefits are subject to eligibility requirements determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Salon Lending Group is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency.
This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to lend, a commitment to lend, or a solicitation for a loan. All loans are subject to credit review and property approval. Program terms, conditions, and availability are subject to change without notice. Actual rates, fees, and terms will vary based on the borrower's individual credit profile and property characteristics.