Veterans Resource Center
VA Loan Answers. More Confident Homeownership.
Understand your benefits, explore your options, and prepare for your next move—with practical guidance from National VA Loans.
Browse by Goal
- Buy My First HomeStart with the first-time buyer guide for veterans using a VA loan to purchase.
- Build a HomeSee how VA construction financing works before you choose a lot or builder.
- Refinance My HomeCompare VA refinance paths, including streamline and cash-out options.
- Understand My BenefitsRead articles on veteran benefits that connect to housing decisions.
- Plan a Military MoveUse the military relocation guide when a PCS or new duty station is ahead.
Explore Our Latest Articles
Clear all filtersShowing 1–3 of 3 articles in First-Time Buyers.
Home Buying
Tips for Getting the Best Contractor to Build Your New Home
Discover essential tips for finding, vetting, and hiring the best contractor to build your dream home. Avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth construction process.
Jason O'Donnell6 min read
Home Buying
10 Things to Do Immediately After Buying a VA Home
Your VA loan helped you secure the home of your dreams. Now discover the 10 essential steps to take immediately after closing to protect your investment and start building wealth.
Jason O'Donnell8 min read
Home Buying
5 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers Using a VA Loan
Essential advice for veterans using their VA loan benefit for the first time.
Jason O'Donnell
Tools for Your Next Move
View All Calculators- VA Mortgage CalculatorEstimate monthly VA payment, funding fee (finance or cash), extra principal, and ZIP tax-insurance estimates for purchase or refinance.
- VA Home Affordability CalculatorEstimate buying power using income, debts, and VA payment context.
- VA Construction Loan CalculatorEstimate VA construction project cost, funding fee, draw interest, cash needed, and permanent payment.
Contributors
Writers are listed separately from the mortgage loan manager. Article bylines show the author. “Reviewed by” appears on a guide only when that review is recorded there.
Writer
Jason O'Donnell
National Brand Manager
Jason O'Donnell has been in the mortgage industry since 2010 and writes about VA home loans, veteran benefits, and military history for National VA Loans.
Mortgage loan manager
Jeff Newton
Mortgage Loan Manager
Jeff Newton is a Mortgage Loan Manager at National VA Loans, powered by Stride Bank, N.A. (NMLS #466690). With a brother who served 20 years in the U.S. military, Jeff is dedicated to helping veterans and military families navigate the VA loan process with clarity.
Writer
Josh Buffum
National VA Loans
Josh Buffum writes about VA home loans for National VA Loans.
Questions About Your Situation?
Explore your options with a National VA Loans specialist and get help understanding your next step.
National VA Loans is powered by Stride Bank, N.A. NMLS #466690. Not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. Pre-qualification is not a commitment to lend.