VA loan articles, written by people who close them.
Every number sourced from VA.gov, the VA Lenders Handbook M26-7, and 38 CFR Part 36. Updated for 2026.
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Where can you get straight answers about VA loans?
This blog explains VA loan rules in plain language: eligibility and the COE, how the funding fee works and who's exempt, why there's no VA loan limit with full entitlement, the IRRRL and cash-out refinance rules, and how VA compares to conventional financing. Each article cites VA.gov or the VA Lenders Handbook.
- Every article opens with a direct answer you can read in ten seconds
- Program rules are cited to VA.gov, the VA Lenders Handbook M26-7, or 38 CFR Part 36
- Consumer-side explanations link to neutral, non-HUD federal sources
- Figures reflect the current VA program year
- Articles are reviewed on a monthly cycle and dated honestly
Start with the article closest to your question; each one gives the rule, the source, and the number you actually need.
Reviewed by the licensed mortgage team at Simply Approved Mortgages · Last verified August 24, 2026 against the VA Lenders Handbook (M26-7)
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2026 VA Funding Fee Changes: What Veterans Actually Pay Now
The VA funding fee schedule sets the one-time cost that replaces mortgage insurance on every VA loan. Here's the current chart, who's exempt, and how it's financed.
Why VA Loans Have No Loan Limit With Full Entitlement
Since the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act took effect in 2020, veterans with full entitlement can borrow whatever a lender approves — with $0 down. Here's how that actually works.
VA vs Conventional Loans: Which One Saves You More in 2026?
VA loans need $0 down and no mortgage insurance, ever. Conventional loans require at least 3% down and PMI until 20% equity. Here's when each one wins.
How VA Disability Compensation Waives Your Funding Fee
Veterans receiving VA disability compensation pay $0 funding fee — often the single biggest savings in the entire loan. Here's how the exemption is proven and refunded.
IRRRL Recoupment Rules: The 36-Month Test That Decides If You Can Refinance
The VA won't let you refinance into an IRRRL just to lower your rate slightly — the fees have to pay for themselves within 36 months. Here's exactly how that math works.
VA Appraisal Turn Times and the Tidewater Process, Explained
A VA appraisal checks value and Minimum Property Requirements. If the value looks like it will come in low, Tidewater gives your agent a shot to submit more comps before the Notice of Value is finalized.
Buying a Duplex, Triplex, or Fourplex With a VA Loan
A VA loan can finance up to a 4-unit property with $0 down, as long as you live in one unit. Rent from the other units can even help you qualify.
PCS Orders and VA Loan Occupancy: What You Need to Know
A permanent change of station doesn't wait for a house to sell. Here's how VA's occupancy rule works around PCS timelines, and how to use a second VA loan with remaining entitlement.
VA Loan Eligibility for Surviving Spouses: What Qualifies and How to Apply
Un-remarried surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or from a service-connected disability can use the VA loan benefit — often with the funding fee waived entirely.
Restoring Your VA Entitlement After Selling a Home
Selling a VA-financed home and paying off the loan restores your entitlement to full — but the paperwork isn't automatic. Here's exactly how restoration works, including the one-time exception.
VA Loan Closing Costs Complete Guide 2026 for Veterans
VA Loan Closing Costs overview with eligibility, entitlement, costs, homeowner obligations, and practical next steps for a clearer estimate.. Get my estimate
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