February 2, 2026
9 minutes

You served with honor-now it’s time for a home that serves you. If you’re a veteran dreaming of owning a home in the Sunshine State, you deserve better than confusing terms, greedy lenders, and cookie-cutter advice.
Here’s the truth: VA loans are one of the most powerful benefits you’ve earned, but too many veterans in Florida don’t use them to their full potential. We’re here to change that.
This guide breaks down the real numbers, clears up the fine print, and shows you how to avoid commission traps. We’ll even show you how to invest in your future, not just your house.
Let’s make your next mission simple: homeownership that honors your service.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn how VA loans work and who qualifies in Florida
- Avoid common VA loan mistakes (high fees, bad lenders)
- Unlock up to 1.5% of your buyer agent’s commission back with reAlpha’s veteran-first homebuying platform
- Explore homeownership and wealth-building options beyond just a primary home
Why Florida Veterans Are House-Hunting in Record Numbers?
- Florida is home to 1.5 million veterans, one of the largest vet populations in the country
- Median home price in Florida (2025): $410,700 [source: HUD]
- Over 50,000 VA-backed loans were issued in Florida last year [source: VA.gov]
With sunny weather, strong communities, and no state income tax, it’s no wonder veterans are looking to put down roots in Florida.
But it’s not all easy. Lenders often confuse or upsell veterans on VA loans. Some charge excessive fees. Others lack real VA expertise.
That’s where this guide steps in.
Get Pre-Qualified and Save Up to 1.5% at Closing with reAlpha
Save up to 1.5% at closing when you combine real estate and mortgage services with reAlpha.

What Credit Score Do You Need for a VA Loan in Florida?
Here’s the surprise: the VA doesn’t set a minimum credit score. But most lenders do.
- Common lender requirement: 580–620 FICO
- Pro Tip: Lower scores may require extra documentation
- Even if one lender says no, another might say yes. Don’t give up.
Are VA Loans Zero Down?
Yes-100% financing is the cornerstone of VA loans.
But that doesn’t mean “zero cost.” Watch for:
- VA funding fee (unless exempt)
- Closing costs (can be negotiated or paid by the seller)
- Optional prepaid items (taxes, insurance)
Still, compared to conventional loans, VA wins:
- No PMI (private mortgage insurance)
- No large down payment needed
- Flexible credit requirements
How to Avoid High Fees with VA Loans?
Not all lenders are created equal. Some hide fees in the fine print. Others push you toward higher-cost products.
Avoid traps by asking upfront:
- What are your lender fees?
- Is the interest rate locked?
- Will I pay points?
Heads up: If your lender can’t clearly explain their VA experience or fee structure, walk away.
Choosing the Right VA Lender in Florida
Here’s a quick breakdown of your options:
| Criteria | Bank Lenders | Mortgage Brokers | reAlpha Mortgage |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA Loan Expertise | Medium | Varies | ✅ Deep Expertise |
| Commission-Free Advice | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ Yes |
| Veteran-Focused? | ❌ | ❓ | ✅ 100% |
reAlpha Mortgage focuses on helping veterans with straightforward guidance and significant buyer savings when they bundle mortgage and title services.
NMLS ID #1743790
What If Your Home Could Make You Money?
Imagine buying your dream home AND having access to real estate investing tools used by the 1%.
reAlpha lets you invest in properties across Florida-all without paying buyer commissions. That means:
- You build wealth while owning your own home
- You avoid the middlemen who profit off veterans
- You stay in control of your finances and future.
Veterans Can Save Up to 1.5% at Closing with reAlpha
Save up to 1.5% on your purchase price by using reAlpha Realty and Mortgage together.

What Life Feels Like After Owning Your Florida Dream Home?
You’re grilling in the backyard, keys in your hand, no rent, no landlord, just peace. The VA loan made it possible. The right lender made it painless.
Owning your home isn’t just about shelter. It’s about security, pride, and passing on generational wealth.
reAlpha Mortgage specializes in helping veterans like you navigate VA loans with zero confusion and full confidence, so you can focus on building the life you’ve earned.
FAQs
Is it hard to get a VA loan in Florida?
No. With the right guidance, it’s straightforward. reAlpha Mortgage simplifies the VA loan process - giving you expert support, transparency, and more money in your pocket.
What are the disadvantages of VA loans?
Few. You might pay a funding fee and have fewer choices with some sellers. But the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
Can you buy land with a VA loan in Florida?
Yes, but only if you build a home on it right after. VA loans don’t finance raw land for investment purposes.
Do all Florida lenders offer VA loans?
No. And even those who do may not specialize in them. Always ask about experience.
Your Mission Continues: Claim Your Home, Build Your Future
Buying a home is a big decision - and having the right information puts you ahead. But the real advantage comes from pairing smart research with a smarter way to buy.
When you use a reAlpha real estate company, you can be eligible to receive up to 1% of the home purchase price back as a credit at closing. Add reAlpha Mortgage, and that rebate can increase to up to 1.5% back, helping offset closing costs and keep more money in your pocket when it matters most.
The rebate is simple, transparent, and applied directly at closing - no complicated hoops, no delayed payouts. Just real savings tied to using a fully integrated homebuying experience.
See how much you could save:
- Check your eligibility
- Explore homes that fit your budget today.
- Your next move could come with thousands back at closing.
Estimate your savings → Rebate Calculator
Start smart. Claim your savings today at reAlpha Mortgage.
Compliance Disclosures:
- reAlpha Mortgage is a licensed mortgage company. NMLS ID: 1743790.
- Always confirm eligibility with a VA-approved lender.
- This article does not constitute financial or legal advice. Rates, fees, and terms are subject to change and may vary by lender and borrower profile.
- reAlpha is a real estate platform that helps homebuyers receive a significant commission rebate when they bundle mortgage and title services.
- VA loan benefits are backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, visit va.gov.
Get the latest market trends, homebuying tips, and insider updates—straight to your inbox. No fluff, just the good stuff.
Article by
Rocky Billore is a mortgage industry leader and Chief Sales Officer with over two decades of experience across residential and commercial lending. Since entering the industry in 2004, he has been directly involved in funding more than $1.4 billion in loans. A recognized expert in VA and government lending, Rocky combines deep program knowledge with a data driven, relationship-first leadership style. His work focuses on building scalable sales organizations, developing high performing teams, and aligning technology with real world lending outcomes to improve the homeownership experience.