How to Obtain a VA Home Loan at Age 65

By Ray Cole

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers attractive home loan financing for qualified applicants. The VA does not discourage current service members or veterans from applying for a home loan due to age. Qualified applicants who are 65 or older may apply for VA loans, but the surviving spouse of a veteran who remarries may need to check eligibility requirements after reaching age 57. You can easily find out if you qualify for a VA home loan.

Contact the VA to obtain a certificate of eligibility. (See Resources to find a phone number or local VA office.)

Copy your documents, such as your certificate of eligibility, photo identification, pay stubs, bank statements and tax returns. Include a copy of the sales contract if you are buying a home. Keep these items in a folder until you meet or speak with a VA lender.

Locate a VA-approved lender by visiting websites such as Quicken Loans and GMAC Mortgage (see Resources). Check for the types of loans offered by online lenders. Review the VA loan programs and interest rates that each lender offers.

Visit local banks to obtain a VA loan. Speak with a loan officer to get details about applying for a VA loan. Ask questions about the loan process, as most federally insured banks will provide VA loans and knowledgeable bank officers can explain the programs.

Apply for a VA loan using the lender you have selected. Provide copies of the lender-requested items from your folder of documents. Complete all disclosure forms required by your lender. Communicate with your lender until the closing on your VA loan.

http://www.lenderva.com