At T. Kerr Property Group, we know that buying a home is more than just a transaction — it’s about finding a place where life can happen and memories can be made. For our military veterans, the process carries an added layer of significance. That’s why we’re proud to have two of our own team heroes, Ron Jones and Steven Brandon, who are both veterans themselves. They have each personally purchased a home using a VA loan and now specialize in guiding fellow veterans through the process with unmatched insight and compassion.

What Makes a VA Loan Unique?

A VA loan, backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, is one of the most valuable benefits available to those who have served. Unlike conventional loans, VA loans come with significant advantages designed to help veterans achieve homeownership with fewer financial barriers.

Key benefits include:

• No Down Payment Required – This is one of the biggest draws for veterans, eliminating the need to save tens of thousands of dollars before purchasing a home.

• No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) – Conventional buyers typically pay PMI if they put less than 20% down, but VA buyers avoid this cost entirely, saving hundreds each month.

• Competitive Interest Rates – VA loans often offer lower interest rates than conventional financing, keeping monthly payments more affordable.

• Easier Qualification Standards – While lenders still review credit and income, VA loans are known for being more flexible for veterans with unique employment or credit histories.

Understanding the Nuances of VA Loans

While VA loans have incredible advantages, they also have some unique features veterans should keep in mind:

• VA Funding Fee – This is a one-time fee (often rolled into the loan) that helps keep the program running for future veterans. The fee can be reduced or waived entirely for veterans with a service-connected disability rating.

• Primary Residence Requirement – VA loans are intended for primary residences only — you cannot use them for vacation homes or investment properties.

• Property Condition Standards – Homes purchased with VA loans must meet certain habitability requirements, so fixer-uppers in need of major repairs may be challenging without a renovation loan option.

• Loan Limit Flexibility – While there is technically no VA loan limit, exceeding county loan thresholds without full entitlement may require a down payment.

• Zero Down Does Not Mean Zero Cash to Close – Even with no down payment, veterans should plan for closing costs such as lender fees, title company charges, escrow prepaids, and potential HOA fees. A skilled agent can often negotiate seller concessions to help cover these expenses, but it’s important to be prepared for some out-of-pocket costs.

What Veterans Should Ask When Choosing a VA Loan Lender

Not all lenders are created equal when it comes to VA loans. Choosing the right one can save you time, money, and frustration. When interviewing lenders, veterans should ask:

1. How many VA loans have you closed in the past year?
   Experience matters. A lender who routinely works with VA loans will be familiar with the unique underwriting process and VA appraisal requirements.

2. Do you have in-house VA loan specialists?
   Some lenders have dedicated VA experts who can guide you through entitlement, funding fees, and eligibility.

3. What is your average VA loan closing time?
   VA loans should not take significantly longer than conventional loans if the lender is experienced.

4. Can you walk me through my VA loan entitlement?
   A good lender will help you understand whether you have full or partial entitlement and what that means for your buying power.

5. Are there any lender fees I should be aware of?
   While VA loans limit certain fees, some lenders may still charge processing or origination costs. Transparency is key.

6. How do you handle appraisals that come in lower than the purchase price?
   VA loans have unique appraisal standards, and an experienced lender will have a plan for handling appraisal challenges.

Why Working with a Veteran Agent Matters

Veterans often have unique needs when it comes to homebuying. Relocations due to PCS orders, transitioning from active duty to civilian life, and navigating the intricacies of VA loan paperwork are all realities many civilian agents may not fully understand.

That’s where our team steps in. Ron Jones and Steven Brandon have been in your boots — literally. They’ve navigated the VA loan process firsthand and know exactly how to help you avoid common pitfalls, from ensuring your pre-approval accounts for VA requirements to finding homes that meet VA appraisal standards. They also understand the lifestyle demands of military families, from commute considerations to proximity to VA medical facilities.

Tips for Veterans Considering a VA Loan

• Get Pre-Approved Early – Work with a lender who truly understands VA loans, as experience matters for speed and accuracy.

• Understand Your Entitlement – Knowing whether you have full or partial entitlement can impact how much you can borrow without a down payment.

• Work with VA-Savvy Professionals – Both your real estate agent and lender should be well-versed in VA guidelines.

• Think Beyond the Loan – Consider resale value, neighborhood amenities, and long-term maintenance when choosing your home.

Standing By Our Veterans

At T. Kerr Property Group, we are honored to serve those who have served us. Whether you’re a first-time buyer just out of the military or a seasoned homeowner looking to use your VA benefits again, our team is here to make the process smooth, transparent, and successful. With Ron Jones and Steven Brandon — our team heroes — leading the way for our veteran clients, you’ll have experienced advocates who understand both the real estate market and military life.

T. Kerr Property Group is proud to be the #1 team in Williamson County for listings sold and buyers represented and within the top 5 for Travis County. We are PT50 winners, ABJ Residential Real Estate Award winners, and have been featured in Real Producers. We’ve been voted Best in Round Rock and Georgetown, and are recognized experts in Georgetown, Austin, Round Rock, and surrounding areas. With over 3,000 combined transactions closed, we bring unmatched experience and dedication to every client we serve.