Do you only offer VA loans?

No. I'm a Mortgage Loan Originator with Edge Home Finance, LLC, a mortgage broker, so I can shop a file across many lenders. VA is the majority of what I do, and I also handle FHA, Conventional, USDA and Non-QM.

Do you only service the Dayton and Cincinnati markets?

Dayton and Cincinnati are the majority of my business. I am personally licensed to originate mortgage loans in 34 states, and through the Edge Home Finance, LLC corporate referral program I can help veterans in every state except New York. Edge Home Finance, LLC is licensed in 49 states and the District of Columbia and does not arrange, solicit, or originate mortgage loans for real property located in the State of New York.

What To Do If You Are Turned Down By Veterans United (or another online lender)

Key Takeaways

Big lenders often deny applications due to “lender overlays”—rules stricter than VA’s actual requirements.
The VA home loan program has no minimum credit score, focusing more on payment history and personal circumstances.
A renovation option exists for homes with issues, but big lenders may not tell you about it.

Take the 30 second mortgage quiz to see if you qualify

If you’ve been denied for a VA home loan by major lenders like Veterans United or Rocket Mortgage, don’t lose hope. You still have a strong chance of getting approved. The reason? Many big online lenders enforce additional rules known as lender overlays, which go beyond what the VA itself requires.

What Are Lender Overlays?

Lender overlays are stricter standards imposed by lenders. For example, while the VA doesn’t set a minimum credit score, many big lenders require one. If you’ve been denied, it’s crucial to determine whether it’s due to your credit score or the property you’re trying to buy.

Understanding Credit and VA Loans

One of the best features of the VA home loan is its flexibility with credit. Unlike conventional loans, the VA program has no minimum credit score requirement. Instead, it evaluates your payment history and personal financial story. While this doesn’t guarantee approval for everyone, it does mean you may still qualify even if your credit score isn’t perfect.

Take the 30 second mortgage quiz to see if you qualify

What If the Problem Is the Property?

If your credit isn’t the issue, the property might be. Did you know the VA offers a renovation option for homes that need some work? Unfortunately, many big lenders don’t offer this program and won’t inform you about it. If you’re eyeing a home with problems, this option could be the key to securing your dream property.

Don't Give Up

If credit or property issues are standing in your way, don’t give up. I’ve created videos on both topics to help you navigate these challenges. Check the links in the description for resources tailored to your needs.

Remember, getting a VA loan isn’t about fitting into a one-size-fits-all box. With the right approach, you can overcome lender overlays and achieve your homeownership goals.

Have questions about VA home loans? Click here to contact me.

Licensing Info

I can originate VA mortgage loans anywhere that I’m licensed. I’m licensed in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Additionally, our team can originate mortgages in several additional states through our corporate referral program.

How To Get A VA Home Loan With Bad Credit

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Carlos Scarpero

Carlos Scarpero is the founder of Scarpero.com and a mortgage loan officer focusing on VA and Non QM mortgage loans. He is also the author of VA Loans Made Easy.

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