Military members have access to a variety of Loan options, some of which are exclusive to those who have served in the armed forces. Here are some of the main types of loans available to military members:

1. VA Loans

These are loans guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs and are available to eligible veterans, active-duty military members, and their surviving spouses. VA loans offer competitive interest rates, no down payment requirement, and relaxed credit and income standards.

2. FHA Loans

FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and are available to all borrowers. They are a popular option for military members due to their low down payment requirements and flexible credit standards.

3. USDA Loans 

These are loans guaranteed by the United States Department of Agriculture and are available to rural homeowners with low to moderate incomes. Military members may be eligible for these loans if they meet the income requirements and live in eligible rural areas.

4. Conventional Loans

Conventional loans are not insured or guaranteed by the government and are available to borrowers who meet certain credit and income requirements. Military members may be eligible for conventional loans if they have a strong credit history and steady income.

5. Jumbo Loans

Jumbo loans are mortgage loans that exceed the conventional loan limit. They are available to military members with a high income and good credit.

6. Home Equity Loans

Home equity loans allow homeowners to borrow against the equity they have built up in their homes. Military members may be eligible for these loans if they have built up substantial equity in their homes.

7. HARP Loans

HARP, or the Home Affordable Refinance Program, is a government-backed program that helps homeowners refinance their mortgages even if they owe more than their home is worth. Military members who are struggling with their mortgage payments may be eligible for HARP loans.

8. Energy Efficient Mortgages (EEMs)

EEMs are loans that allow homeowners to finance the cost of energy-efficient upgrades to their homes. Military members who are looking to make their homes more energy efficient may be eligible for these loans.

9. Home Improvement Loans

Home improvement loans are loans that allow homeowners to finance the cost of home improvements. Military members who are looking to make repairs or upgrades to their homes may be eligible for these loans.

10. Refinance Loans

Refinance loans allow homeowners to refinance their existing mortgages. Military members who are looking to lower their monthly mortgage payments, shorten their loan term, or cash out some of the equity they have built up in their homes may be eligible for refinance loans.

In addition to the loan options listed above, military members may also be eligible for other types of financial assistance, such as grants, scholarships, and low-interest loans. Military members should explore all of their options and take advantage of any financial assistance that is available to them.

FHA vs VA Loan

FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration and are available to all borrowers, including military members and veterans. They are designed for those who have a lower credit score or limited down payment funds. FHA loans have more lenient credit score requirements compared to conventional loans and they require a smaller down payment, which can make them a good option for military members who have limited funds available. However, FHA loans come with a mortgage insurance premium (MIP), which must be paid for the life of the loan.

VA loans, on the other hand, are only available to military members and veterans. They are backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not require a down payment or mortgage insurance. VA loans also have more flexible credit requirements and they offer competitive interest rates. However, VA loans have a funding fee, which is a one-time fee that is paid upfront or added to the loan balance. The funding fee can be waived for certain military members who have disabilities or who receive a VA compensation award.

FHA loans and VA loans are both popular loan options for military members, but there are some key differences between the two:

1. Down payment

FHA loans require a minimum down payment of 3.5%, while VA loans do not require a down payment at all.

2. Credit Score

FHA loans have more relaxed credit score requirements, while VA loans have more stringent requirements.

3. Interest rates

VA loans typically have lower interest rates than FHA loans.

4. Mortgage Insurance

FHA loans require mortgage insurance, while VA loans do not.

Ultimately, the choice between an FHA vs VA loan will depend on the specific needs and financial situation of the military member. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is important for military members to carefully consider their options before choosing a loan.

It is important for military members to carefully research their loan options and compare different loan options to find the one that best fits their needs. Military members should also work with a lender who has experience working with military borrowers and who is familiar with the unique challenges that military members face. A lender who is knowledgeable about the military lifestyle and who is able to offer flexible loan options can help military members successfully secure the financing they need. Military members should be cautious of lenders who offer loans with terms that seem too good to be true, such as low interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and no credit check. These lenders may charge hidden fees, have high interest rates, and put military members in a cycle of debt.

It is also important for military members to have a good understanding of their credit and financial situation before applying for a loan. Military members should review their credit reports, calculate their debt-to-income ratio, and determine their monthly budget to ensure that they are in a strong financial position to take on a loan.

Additionally, it is important for military members to understand the terms and conditions of their loans, including the interest rate, loan term, and repayment terms. Military members should also be aware of any prepayment penalties, late fees, and other charges that may be associated with their loans.

In conclusion, military members have access to a variety of loan options, including VA loans, FHA loans, USDA loans, conventional loans, jumbo loans, and home equity loans. Each type of loan has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it is important for military members to carefully consider their options before choosing a loan. Whether a military member is looking to buy their first home, refinance their current mortgage, or borrow against the equity they have built up in their home, there is likely a loan option that will meet their needs.

This article Types of Loans You Could Get If You Served on the Military originally appeared on Rick Orford - Invest, Earn More Income & Save Money.