VA Loan Pre-Approval Guide for Veterans: Steps + Tips | reAlpha Mortgage

If you're serious about buying a home with your VA benefits, getting pre-approved is your secret weapon. It turns confusion into clarity, speeds up your search, and makes sellers take you seriously. Yet, most first-time military buyers skip this step—and risk losing their dream home.

Here’s what they don’t tell you: VA loan pre-approval isn’t just paperwork—it’s power. It tells you exactly how much home you can afford and positions you to close fast.

Tip: Always aim check VA eligibility—it proves you're ready to buy.

• Pre-approval demonstrates financial readiness to sellers and strengthens your offer.
• Eligibility is based on service history, credit, income, and other factors.
• Pre-approval allows smoother and more efficient homebuying.

Even qualified veterans can be denied pre-approval due to:

• Low credit scores or DTI issues
• Incomplete service records
• Gaps in employment

✅ Learn what disqualifies you in this VA loan disqualifiers guide

Technically, no—but if you're house hunting without it, you're at a disadvantage:

• Sellers might not take you seriously
• You risk delays during closing‍

Bottom line? Pre-approval makes you more competitive and saves time.

What is it? VA loan pre-approval is a lender’s conditional evaluation stating that—based on the information provided—you’re preliminarily qualified to borrow a certain amount. It includes checks for eligibility, credit, income, and assets.

• Negotiating Power: Demonstrates sellers that you’re financially qualified.
• Faster Closings: Many underwriting steps are completed upfront.
• Peace of Mind: Gives you a clear understanding of your budget.

Pro Tip: Working with a VA-experienced team like reAlpha Mortgage helps you avoid costly mistakes with veteran-specific guidance and fast-tracked approvals.

Before proceeding, confirm that you meet the Department of Veterans Affairs eligibility requirements. According to VA Pamphlet 26-7 (VA Lender’s Handbook), general eligibility includes:

• Minimum active duty service (e.g., 90 days during wartime or 181 days during peacetime)
• Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
• A credit score—most lenders prefer 620+, though VA does not set a minimum
• Stable income with a debt-to-income (DTI) ratio typically below 41%, unless compensating factors exist.

Most lenders require the following:

• Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
• LES or DD-214 (proof of service)
• Recent pay stubs, W-2s, or tax returns (past 2 years)
• Bank statements (past 2 months)
• Government-issued photo ID and Social Security number

Not all mortgage brokers specialize in VA loans. Selecting one that does can improve your experience and reduce delays.

Why Choose reAlpha Mortgage?

• NMLS-licensed VA loan experts who specialize in military buyers
• Clear communication, fast closings, and full-service support
• Customized solutions for veterans, active-duty members, and first-time buyers alike

Bonus Tip: reAlpha offers alternatives to traditional real estate agents to eliminate commission fees. (Example: On a $400,000 home, saving 3% equals $12,000 in potential commission savings.)

Once your documents are ready, your chosen lender will walk you through the application process. You’ll have to:

• Complete the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA)
• Authorize a credit report
• Upload or provide all supporting documents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Not disclosing all debts or obligations
• Gaps in employment history without explanation
• Missing or inconsistent documentation.

After your application is reviewed, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter outlining:

• The loan amount you’re pre-approved for
• Estimated interest rate and loan terms
• Conditional requirements (e.g., appraisal, continued employment verification).

Carefully review the letter’s contents and note any expiration date—a pre-approval is typically valid for 60–90 days.

After this section write: Before applying, secure your VA Certificate of Eligibility—it’s your golden ticket to confirming you qualify for VA benefits.

Avoid these frequent missteps:

• Making large credit purchases (e.g., new car or furniture)
• Opening new credit accounts or loans
• Changing jobs without consulting your loan officer
• Delays in responding to lender communications.

Tip: reAlpha Mortgage flags risky moves early and helps you stay fully eligible throughout the process—so nothing delays your dream home.

Find the Perfect Mortgage for Your Dream Home with reAlpha Mortgage.

Compare options, calculate payments, and get expert guidance - all in one place.

Check if you qualify

Real estate commissions can range up to 3% per side in a traditional transaction. On a $400,000 home, that could equal $12,000 paid to the buyer’s agent—typically covered by the seller but factored into pricing.

reAlpha offers buyers the ability to work without traditional agent commissions, potentially saving thousands. Be sure to review all terms and disclosures and consult legal or real estate professionals when comparing service models.

Example (Hypothetical, for Educational Purposes):

• A qualified VA borrower gets pre-approved through reAlpha Mortgage
• Buys a $400,000 home and bundles mortgage + title
• They receive up to 75% of the buyer agent commission back—equaling potential savings of $9,000 or more

Here’s how to stay on track after receiving your pre-approval letter:

• Begin home shopping within your pre-approved price range
• Avoid major financial changes (job switches, large purchases, new credit)
• Stay in contact with your loan officer for updates and any additional document requests

Reminder: Pre-approval letters expire—typically after 60 to 90 days. Stay proactive to update your application as needed.

Buying your dream home doesn’t have to drain your savings. With reAlpha Mortgage, you could get up to 75% of your buyer agent’s commission back — real cash you can use toward inspections, moving, or closing costs. Start with 25% when you use a reAlpha agent. Add reAlpha Mortgage for 50%. Bundle in Title to unlock the full 75% rebate.

It’s your benefit. Let it pay you back.

👉 Begin your pre-approval now at reAlpha Mortgage.

Take the next step: Talk to a reAlpha Mortgage VA loan expert to start your pre-approval today and move one step closer to homeownership with built-in savings.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to lend. All applications are subject to credit and underwriting approval. Licensing and legal terms apply—please consult a qualified mortgage expert. reAlpha Mortgage, NMLS ID: 1743790.

Veterans United typically takes 1 to 3 business days to issue a VA pre-approval letter once all documents are submitted. Timing depends on file complexity and responsiveness.

Most VA pre-approvals—including from Veterans United—are valid for 60 to 90 days. After that, you'll need to update income, credit, or employment docs to refresh it.

For first-time buyers, the process includes:

• Verifying VA loan eligibility
• Submitting income & credit docs
• Working with a VA-specialized lender

👉Consider reAlpha Mortgage for a smoother, savings-packed first-time buying experience.

While opinions vary, reAlpha Mortgage, Veterans United, and Navy Federal consistently rank high. Your best fit depends on service, speed, and transparency.

Neighbors Bank offers VA loans, but reviews vary. When comparing lenders:

• Check VA expertise
• Ask about fees & support
• Read borrower testimonials

✔️ Learn how reAlpha Mortgage simplifies this process.

Find the Perfect Mortgage for Your Dream Home with reAlpha Mortgage.

Compare options, calculate payments, and get expert guidance - all in one place.

Check if you qualify