There are a number of different types of home loans. Each is suited to a different set of scenarios. How do you know which is right for you? Below are some questions you can ask yourself that can help you figure out what type of home loan to apply for.

- Are you a veteran, active-duty service member, or eligible surviving spouse? If the answer to this question is “yes,” you should look into a VA mortgage. This type of home loan is guaranteed by the US Department of Veterans Affairs, and includes affordable rates, easy credit qualifications, and no down payment.
- Are you shopping for a home in a rural area? If you answered “yes” to this question, you should look into the USDA rural home loan program. Like the VA loan program, it is government-backed, and includes zero down.
- What is your income? USDA loans are income-based, so you will need to know your income to check if you qualify for that type of mortgage. Your income will also be one of the considerations when determining what other types of loans you qualify for.
- What is your DTI ratio? While you are assessing your income, you should also check your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. Look up the DTI ratio requirements for the different types of loans to see what you can apply for.
- What is your credit score? Each type of mortgage has a minimum credit score requirement. Checking your credit score will help you figure out which loans are suitable in your scenario. If you are in need of flexible credit qualification requirements, USDA, FHA and VA loans are all excellent options.
- Are you a first-time homebuyer? FHA mortgages are especially good for people buying their first home. But being a returning homebuyers is not a disqualification. You can apply for an FHA mortgage either way.
- What down payment can you afford? If you can afford to put 20% down, a conventional loan is a good choice. But if you cannot, you should see if you qualify for an FHA loan (as little as 3.5% down) or a zero down FHA loan or VA loan. For a jumbo loan, you may need to put down more than 20%.
- How much do you want to borrow? If you want to borrow above the conforming loan limits, then you will need to apply for a non-conforming loan, also called a jumbo loan. Otherwise, a conventional loan is fine.
Buy a Home or Refinance in Virginia
You may still have questions about what types of mortgages would be most suitable for your situation, and which you qualify for. During your consultation, we can guide you through the process, going over your options with you in detail.
To get started, please give us a call at (540) 838-5868 to schedule your mortgage consultation. We can help you buy a home or refinance in Blacksburg or anywhere in Virginia.