- You can put as little as 0% down. That combined with VA loans allowing some of the highest debt to income ratios in the industry makes it much easier to qualify for a home in expensive markets.

- If you are putting less than 20% down, there is no private mortgage insurance! This can save you hundreds a month over a conventional or FHA loan.

- A funding fee in the range of 1.4%-3.6% does apply, depending on your down payment and whether you have had a VA loan before. Some service members are exempt from the funding fee.