VA Loan Homebuyer Checklist

A step-by-step guide to getting ready for your VA home loan — from confirming eligibility to closing day. Check off each item as you go.

1. Confirm Your Eligibility

  • ☐Determine your service category (active duty, veteran, Guard/Reserve, surviving spouse)
  • ☐Confirm you meet the minimum length-of-service requirement
  • ☐Request your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) — via your lender, VA.gov, or VA Form 26-1880
  • ☐Locate your DD-214 (veterans) or Statement of Service (active duty)

2. Get Your Finances Ready

  • ☐Pull your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com and dispute any errors
  • ☐Aim for a credit score of 620+ (most VA lenders' preferred minimum)
  • ☐Calculate your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio — target 41% or below
  • ☐Avoid opening new credit cards or auto loans before closing
  • ☐Start saving for closing costs (typically 1–5% of the loan amount)

3. Understand the Costs

  • ☐Review the VA funding fee (1.25%–3.3%) — waived if you receive VA disability compensation
  • ☐Budget for the appraisal, title, and origination fees
  • ☐Set aside earnest money for your offer
  • ☐Ask whether the seller can cover part of your closing costs

4. Gather Your Documents

  • ☐W-2 statements (last 2 years)
  • ☐Pay stubs (last 30 days)
  • ☐Bank statements (last 2 months)
  • ☐Federal tax returns (last 2 years)
  • ☐DD-214 or Statement of Service
  • ☐Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

5. Start the Homebuying Process

  • ☐Get pre-approved with a VA-experienced lender
  • ☐Choose a real estate agent who understands VA loans and PCS timelines
  • ☐Tour homes within your pre-approved budget
  • ☐Make an offer and schedule the VA appraisal and home inspection
  • ☐Review your Closing Disclosure carefully before signing

Ready to see where you stand?

Check your VA loan eligibility in about 2 minutes — free, no credit pull, no SSN required. Also see our full preparation guide.

Educational use only. VA North Star is an independent resource and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Only the VA can officially confirm your eligibility. officialvanorthstar.com — Guiding You Home.