For those who’ve served our country, few home financing options compare to the VA loan. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the VA loan is designed to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses.

But if you’re asking yourself, “Am I eligible for a VA loan?”, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions we hear. This guide will walk you through who qualifies, what documents are needed, the benefits, and how North Star Mortgage Network can help you every step of the way, including pulling your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) directly from the VA portal.

What Is a VA Loan?

A VA loan is a government-backed mortgage program created in 1944 through the GI Bill, designed to help returning service members buy homes without the traditional barriers of large down payments or private mortgage insurance (PMI). These loans are offered by approved lenders — like North Star Mortgage Network — and are guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Unlike FHA or conventional loans, VA loans are built specifically for military families, offering low-interest rates, no down payment, and easier qualification guidelines.

Am I Eligible for a VA Loan?

Let’s get to the heart of the matter: Am I eligible for a VA loan?
To qualify, you must meet the service requirements established by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Here’s what that typically looks like:

Military Service Eligibility

You may be eligible if you meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Veterans who served:
    • At least 90 consecutive days during wartime
    • Or 181 days during peacetime
  • Active-duty military with at least 90 continuous days of service
  • National Guard or Reservists who served at least 6 years
    • Or at least 90 days of active duty under Title 32 with at least 30 of those days being consecutive
  • Surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or from a service-connected disability and have not remarried (some exceptions apply)

The Role of the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is a critical document that verifies your entitlement to a VA loan. Without it, you can’t move forward — but the good news is, we can help you obtain it quickly and easily.

North Star Mortgage Can Pull Your COE for You

At North Star Mortgage Network, we access the VA’s secure web portal and pull your COE directly. In most cases, we can get this done within minutes — no paperwork, no wait, and no stress.

This is just one of the ways we simplify the VA loan process for our clients.

Benefits of Using a VA Loan

If you qualify, VA loans offer significant financial advantages compared to other loan types. Here’s why:

0% Down Payment

One of the biggest advantages: no down payment is required in most cases. That’s a huge benefit, especially in today’s market.

No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)

Conventional loans typically require PMI if you put down less than 20%. VA loans eliminate this cost entirely, saving you money every month.

Lower Interest Rates

VA loans generally offer lower fixed interest rates than conventional or FHA loans — which means lower monthly payments and long-term savings.

Flexible Credit Guidelines

While VA loans still review your credit, they are more forgiving when it comes to lower credit scores or less-than-perfect credit histories.

Refinance Opportunities

VA loans offer valuable refinancing options, including:

  • VA Streamline Refinance (IRRRL): A simplified process with limited documentation and no appraisal in many cases
  • VA Cash-Out Refinance: Tap into your home equity for repairs, debt consolidation, or financial flexibility

Can I Use My VA Loan Benefit More Than Once?

Yes. Many eligible borrowers don’t realize that VA loan benefits are reusable. If you’ve paid off your previous VA loan or sold the property, your entitlement can often be restored so you can use it again for your next home.

Why Choose North Star Mortgage Network?

We understand that there are many lenders out there, but not all are equipped to handle VA loans with the attention and expertise they require.

At North Star Mortgage Network, we bring:

  • Over 25 years of mortgage experience
  • Expertise in VA guidelines and military family needs
  • Personalized, one-on-one support
  • Faster turn times and thinner margins (we work with less overhead, which means better pricing for you)
  • The ability to pull your COE quickly — without the hassle

You’ll never get passed off to a call center or stuck with an automated system. We believe in human service, clear answers, and relationships built on trust.

Ready to Find Out If You’re Eligible?

If you’ve been asking, “Am I eligible for a VA loan?”, let us help you find the answer today. Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or just exploring your options, we’re ready to help you move forward with confidence.

Call or text Nathan Young at 904-613-7700
Or apply online here: Start Your VA Loan Application
Visit us online: www.nsmn.com

North Star Mortgage Network, Inc.
Guiding Florida’s veterans and military families home for over 25 years.
Your best interest is our principal concern.

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