The First-Time Veteran Homebuyer Checklist
From pulling your credit to picking up the keys — the 12-week roadmap most veterans wish they'd had.
Weeks 1–2 — Prequalify
Get prequalified. This is a soft credit pull and a conversation, not a commitment. You'll leave with a realistic price range and a monthly payment estimate.
Ask your LO to pull your COE at the same time. It's free and keeps things moving.
Weeks 3–6 — Shop and offer
Shop, tour, and negotiate. Your prequalification letter travels with you. Work with an agent experienced with VA loans — they'll write cleaner offers that sellers take seriously.
Watch for MPRs (Minimum Property Requirements): peeling paint on pre-1978 homes, missing handrails, and roof condition are the ones that most often trip up first-time buyers.
Weeks 7–10 — Under contract
Inspection, appraisal (a VA-approved appraiser will check for the VA's Minimum Property Requirements), underwriting, and title work happen in parallel.
You'll be asked for updated pay stubs, bank statements, and a Verification of Employment. Fast turnaround here keeps your file on schedule.
Weeks 11–12 — Clear to close
Clear to close, final walkthrough, closing disclosure at least 3 business days before closing, then signing day. You get the keys.
Bring a government ID and a cashier's check or wire confirmation for closing funds. That's it.
Ready to put this to work?
Prequalify in 15 minutes with a specialist who lives this every day.
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