Centre Realty Group
Tracy Johnson, Centre Realty GroupPhone: (617) 595-2600
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Requirements & Process: What You Should Know About Buying a Condo With a VA Loan

by Tracy Johnson 11/28/2022

Military veterans can use their VA loan benefits to finance a new home. However, different property types can have different processes and requirements compared to single-family residences. Here are the most important things to know about buying a condo with a VA loan:

Is the Condo VA-Approved?

You can use a VA loan to purchase a condo or townhome unit instead of a single-family home. However, the condo needs to be part of a VA-approved development. It's common for communities to state their VA approval if they have it, but there are resources available online through the VA you can use to check.

Prepare for a Potentially Long Process

Buying a condo through a VA loan has some unique application steps. If you wish to buy a condo that is not already VA-approved, an approval process has to happen before you can buy. This process involves the lender requesting documentation from the development to determine their eligibility. Some of the information requested can include homeowner association bylaws, current financial and litigation statements and lot surveys of the property.

Unfortunately, this process can take several months, and the condos are not obligated to provide the documentation at all. Therefore, it's crucial to prepare your buying timeline accordingly. If your chosen condo is already VA approved, you can skip this part of the process entirely.

Requirements for VA Approval

While the VA does not publish their specific guidelines for approval, there are some common considerations. Some of these conditions include owner-occupancy rates, vacancy rates and HOA dues. Your specific lender may also have requirements for approving a development in addition to the VA standards.

Finding your dream home can be a long process, and even longer if your financing requires additional steps to secure. If you're interested in using a VA loan to buy a condo, these are the most important things to remember.

About the Author
Author

Tracy Johnson

With over 25 years of extensive real estate experience throughout the Boston and Metro West areas. Combine this with my ability to work smart and to not stop working until your needs are met and you get a broker that will help you make the right decisions when it comes to buying or selling your home.

Let my success work for you. I have been trusted to represent developers, builders, attorneys, financial planners, and many other professionals, selling condominiums, townhomes, new construction, investment, commercial properties, and of course single-family homes. I know your neighborhood.

I’m a problem solver and an excellent negotiator. Problems often arise that can stop a sale. I’ve solved many problems over the years and when I don’t have the answer I find an expert who does.
I offer first-class marketing I guarantee will work for you. I can tell you what you need to do to get your home sold quickly and for the best possible price.

If you are looking for a professional you can trust to help find your dream home or sell your current home, contact me today. If you are not completely satisfied with my service you can cancel any time. I am always available by phone or email, so please reach out to me anytime!
I am committed to getting you, the results you deserve.