July 31, 2025
12 minutes

Think VA loans are just for white picket fences and traditional homes? Think again.
For veterans seeking affordable housing, manufactured and modular homes can be an ideal route to ownership—especially when paired with the unbeatable benefits of a VA loan. Whether you're looking to save on monthly costs, live in a rural setting, or downsize without sacrificing comfort, mobile homes could be your most strategic housing decision yet.
This guide reveals how VA loans apply to mobile, modular, and manufactured homes—including cost-saving insights like zero down, no PMI, and waived commission fees through partners like reAlpha.
Key Takeaways: VA Loan for Mobile Homes
- Yes, eligible borrowers may use a VA loan to finance a mobile, manufactured, or modular home, provided the property meets both HUD and VA standards.
- VA loans may require no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and generally offer competitive interest rates.
- The property must be the borrower's primary residence and affixed to a permanent foundation to meet VA eligibility requirements.
- Not all lenders offer VA loans for manufactured homes. VA-experienced lenders—like those available through reAlpha Mortgage—can help you find appropriate options.
- If you purchase a home through reAlpha, commission fees may be waived, which could reduce upfront costs. This varies by transaction and should be confirmed directly with the service provider.
VA Land Purchase with Mobile Homes
Yes, you can use a VA loan to purchase land with a mobile home. For full guidance, visit our VA land loan blog.
Does VA Loan Cover Older or Smaller Units?
While VA doesn’t set strict age or size limits, most lenders prefer homes under 20 years old and 400+ sq ft. The home must not have been relocated. See our full loan requirement checklist.
What Is a VA Loan? (And Why It’s a Game-Changer for First-Time Buyers)
A VA loan is a mortgage option backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It is available to qualified veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses. VA loans are issued by private lenders and guaranteed in part by the VA.
Who Qualifies for a VA Loan?
- Eligible veterans with qualifying service
- Active-duty service members with at least 90 continuous days
- Certain members of the National Guard or Reserves
- Surviving spouses (under specific conditions)
You can verify your eligibility through the VA’s eBenefits portal.
Check your VA Certificate of Eligibility to confirm.
VA Loan Benefits (Yes, Even for Mobile Homes)
- No down payment is required in most cases
- No monthly private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Competitive interest rates based on credit and market conditions
- Flexible credit qualification standards
- One-time VA funding fee (which may be rolled into the loan)
For first-time homebuyers, these benefits may offer lower upfront costs—especially for homes under $100K. Always consult with a VA-approved lender for a cost breakdown based on your qualifications.
Can You Use a VA Loan for a Mobile Home?
Short answer: Yes, but there are specific criteria.
VA Mobile Home Loan Requirements:
- Primary Residence Only: The home must be your intended primary residence. Investment or second homes are not eligible under VA guidelines.
- HUD Standards: The unit must comply with HUD safety and construction codes.
- Permanent Foundation: The home must be affixed to a permanent foundation and sited on land owned or being purchased with the home.
- VA Appraisal Required: A VA-certified appraiser must confirm the property’s value and condition.
Lenders may also impose additional guidelines (called “overlays”). That’s why it’s helpful to work with a lender familiar with VA mobile home loans.
Curious about home standards? Read VA appraisal requirements
What Types of Mobile Homes Are Eligible?
Not all factory-built homes meet VA guidelines. Here’s what generally qualifies:
Eligible Mobile Home Types:
- Single-Wide Units: Typically 600–1,300 sq ft
- Double-Wide Units: Usually 1,000–2,300 sq ft
- Modular Homes: Assembled on site; often treated similarly to site-built homes by underwriters
Key Requirement: The structure must be installed on a permanent foundation and comply with both HUD and VA construction and safety codes.
Note: Modular homes may have a smoother approval process due to construction and design similarities with traditional homes.
Find the Perfect Mortgage for Your Dream Home with reAlpha Mortgage.
Compare options, calculate payments, and get expert guidance - all in one place.

How to Apply for a VA Loan for a Mobile Home?
Your step-by-step guide:
1. Obtain Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Apply online via the VA eBenefits portal or request assistance from your lender.
2. Find a VA-Approved Lender - Such as reAlpha Mortgage
Not all lenders finance manufactured homes. reAlpha Mortgage helps connect borrowers to VA-participating lenders familiar with these transactions.
Note: Lender participation and program availability may vary by state and lender.
3. Appraisal and Inspection
- Must meet HUD Code construction requirements
- The VA-certified appraiser must verify the value and condition
4. Close Your Loan
After approval, finalize your loan documents and complete the purchase. Welcome to your new home!
Cost Breakdown: Mobile Home with VA Loan vs Traditional Home
Let’s compare average costs, based on sample scenarios:
Cost Factor | Mobile Home (VA Loan) | Traditional Home (VA Loan) |
---|---|---|
Home Price | $60,000–$120,000 | $200,000–$450,000 |
Down Payment | $0* | $0* |
Monthly Payment | $400–$700 | $1,200–$2,300 |
Closing Costs | $2,000–$5,000 | $5,000–$12,000 |
Commission Fees | $0 with reAlpha | Up to 6% of sale price |
Annual Taxes/Insurance | Lower | Higher |
Bottom Line:
Buying your mobile or manufactured home doesn’t have to strain your budget. With reAlpha Mortgage, you can save thousands at closing by unlocking up to 75% of your buyer agent’s commission back. Here's how it stacks:
- 25% rebate for using a reAlpha agent
- 50% rebate when you finance through reAlpha Mortgage
- 75% total rebate when you bundle with reAlpha Title
That’s real cash you can put toward inspections, upgrades, or move-in costs. Start your smarter homebuying journey today—see how much you can save at reAlpha Mortgage.
Disclaimer:
reAlpha Mortgage | NMLS #1743790 | Equal Housing Lender. This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute a lending commitment. Loan approval is based on credit and underwriting standards. Please confirm current VA guidelines with your lender or the VA Lender’s Handbook.
FAQs
Can I use a VA loan to buy just the mobile home without land?
Yes—but with conditions. The mobile or manufactured home must still meet VA and HUD standards, and it must be permanently affixed to a foundation. If you're not purchasing the land, the home must be placed on a VA-approved leased lot. Keep in mind, that not all lenders offer loans for this setup, so it’s crucial to work with a VA-experienced lender like reAlpha Mortgage to explore your options.
Are there size or age restrictions for manufactured homes under VA loans?
Yes. Most lenders prefer homes that are less than 20 years old and at least 400 square feet (single-wide) or 700+ square feet (double-wide). The home must also have never been moved from its original location. While the VA doesn't impose strict size or age limits, individual lender overlays may apply—another reason to work with reAlpha Mortgage, a specialist in mobile and manufactured home lending.
Can I refinance a mobile or manufactured home with a VA loan?
Yes, refinancing is possible if the home was originally purchased using a VA loan and still meets VA requirements. You can explore VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loans (IRRRLs) to lower your rate or a VA cash-out refinance if you have equity. reAlpha Mortgage. can walk you through both options to see which one saves you the most. Your home must still be affixed to a permanent foundation and serve as your primary residence.
Find the Perfect Mortgage for Your Dream Home with reAlpha Mortgage.
Compare options, calculate payments, and get expert guidance - all in one place.

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