Unless mortgage life insurance is purchased, the responsibility of a veteran mortgage passes to the spouse or the veteran's estate in the event of his or her death. There is a continued obligation to make payments, but don't forget the VA's "Leniency Policy" with regard to forbearance for qualified borrowers who fall on temporary hard times. Mortgage life insurance can take care of this issue once and for all, but it is not offered through the VA. You'll need to find a qualified private insurance company to make these arrangements. The terms of such insurance may vary from agency to agency.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION # 1 [ -more VA Loan questions- ] - - - - - - Q: Definition of a VA Loan - What is a VA loan?
A: The VA loan began in 1944 through the original Servicemen's Readjustment Act, also known as the GI Bill of Rights. The GI Bill was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and provided veterans with a federally guaranteed home with no down payment. This feature was designed to provide housing and assistance for veterans and their families, and the dream of home ownership became a reality for millions of veterans.
VA guaranteed loans are made by private lenders, such as banks, savings & loans, or mortgage companies to eligible veterans for the purchase of a home, which must be for their own personal occupancy. The guaranty means the lender is protected against loss if you or a later owner fails to repay the loan. The guaranty replaces the protection the lender normally receives by requiring a down payment allowing you to obtain favorable financing terms.
VA Loan Rates
for 7/04/2009
30 year fixed
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0.000 points
5.500%
5.610% APR
15 year fixed
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0.000 points
5.500%
5.686% APR
Serving the military community with personal loans from $500 to $10k.