Skip to content
Fact Checked by Experts

VA Loans in Marion County, Florida: Take Advantage of the Zero Down Payment

Surely you have heard about Marion County. If not, I'll tell you what it is: It is a county in Ohio, United States. Marion County, Florida, is a great place to live. It's one of the most diverse counties in the state, and it's very close to Orlando and Tampa. Many things to do in Marion County make it an excellent place to live.

If you're looking for a new home, you can find many affordable and attractive homes in Marion County. You have many options when buying a home in Marion County, Florida.

One of the best ways to get your dream house at an affordable price is by taking advantage of the zero-down mortgage program. This mortgage allows monthly payments instead of paying all upfront. This can help you pay your mortgage more quickly and save money.

A zero-down payment mortgage is a type of home loan you can qualify for when you put down a one-time fee. You might be able to get this type of loan if you have enough credit history and income to qualify for an FHA or VA loan, but you don't have enough cash for a traditional mortgage.

If you are a veteran, how much loan money do you qualify for? The short answer is - it depends. The VA loan program offers three types of loans that vary in terms of interest rates, down payment, and other factors. This post will focus on the zero-down VA loan option for veterans. Read on to learn more.


What Is The VA Loan?

The VA home loan offers zero down payment and low-interest rates. This is great for first-time homebuyers or those with trouble qualifying for a mortgage with traditional lenders.

The VA home loan is a particular type of loan that provides benefits to veterans who qualify. The VA offers low-interest loans to help vets buy their first home and refinance existing homes.

While there are several different types of VA loans, the essential functions are all similar. Homeowners can get a fixed-rate mortgage that requires no initial down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). These loans suit anyone looking to take advantage of the VA's zero down payment option but still pay off their mortgage over time.

VA Loans are a form of financing that allows you to buy a new home or refinance your existing home. It's one of the most popular mortgage types because it offers many benefits that come with purchasing a house without paying for the down payment.

VA Loans are available for any veteran eligible for them, whether they served during a time of war or in peacetime. You can use VA loans for both purchases and refinance, as well as for homes at any price point.

Here's everything about VA Loans:


VA Loans have a VA Funding Fee

VA Loans are non-recourse loans, meaning you will not have to pay back the principal amount owed if you default on your loan. However, VA loans do have specific fees associated with them. It is a fee that the Department of Veterans Affairs charges (VA) and is paid by the Veteran when they receive the funds from the VA.

The VA Funding Fee is a fee that covers the cost of acquiring a VA home loan. It is an upfront fee that must be paid when approved for a VA home loan. It helps cover the cost of processing and approving all applicants for VA loans who are eligible for one. This Fee is based on your income and other factors such as credit history. The Fee is also subject to change at any time without notice.

The amount charged on your loan depends on the type of loan you are getting. This funding fee also varies based on your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and other factors. For instance, this funding fee can be costly if you have bad credit or no credit history. However, having good credit and low debt-to-income ratios will be less expensive to obtain a VA home loan than a conventional mortgage.

The VA Funding Fee is not refundable, so it must be paid regardless of whether or not you receive financing for your new home purchase.


VA Loans Offer Zero Down Payment

It's no secret that paying down your mortgage is one of the best ways to save money on interest over time. For this reason, VA loans require no down payment at all! You don't have to put up any cash up front either — lenders will cover 100% of your closing costs and fees.

The zero down payment VA loan is an excellent option for those who want to purchase a home but don't have the cash to pay the upfront cost. This loan allows borrow up flexible to 100% of the home's appraised value.

What does this mean for you? It means that you don't have to worry about putting down any money upfront. This could be an ideal solution if you're looking for a way to purchase a home without spending any money upfront.


How to Qualify For Zero Down Payment VA Loans in Marion County, Florida

There are primarily two ways you qualify for a VA home loan. The first is through the VA's Guaranteed Home Loan Program. This program requires that you are at least 65 years old and have an annual income of less than $62,000.

The second option is through the VA's Home Equity Conversion Loan Program. This allows you to use your home equity as collateral on a new VA loan if you cannot meet the income requirement for the Guaranteed Loan Program.


How to Get the Zero Down payment VA Loan

If you decide to apply for a zero-down payment loan, there are specific steps that you will need to take. You will need to contact the lender and ask them if they offer this loan. Once they confirm that they do, you will be able to get started with your application process.

Once you have submitted your information, make sure that everything is correct. Ensure that you include all the necessary information, including your employment history and anything else that may be relevant for them to consider when deciding whether or not to approve your application.

The next step is the application review. Please review your application and ensure that everything is accurate and up-to-date before sending it over to the underwriter, who will review it, and any other supporting documentation such as tax returns.

The underwriter will then analyze their part before coming back with their findings, which they can then use as a basis for their decision on whether or not they want to approve your loan.


VA Loan Eligibility Requirement

Both programs require that the home being refinanced is not subject to any liens or judgments that would affect your ability to sell it in a short period.

To qualify for a VA loan, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Have a permanent disability attributable to your military service.

  • Receive 100% service-connected disability compensation.

  • Be the legal spouse, child, or named beneficiary of a veteran who died while on active duty or due to a condition connected with military service.

  • All veterans who have served at least 90 days of honorable service and are at least 55 years old are eligible for a VA home loan.

  • You must have an excellent credit history and no outstanding debt with any creditor to qualify for a VA home loan. You also must have an income below 125% of the area median income (AMI) when you file your application with the VA.

  • Have a valid Social Security Number.

  • Have no adverse credit history within the last two years.

The maximum amount that you can borrow through this program is $625,500. You may use funds from other financing sources such as savings accounts or retirement accounts, but they will count towards your down payment requirement.


African american mother in military uniform sitting with her kids in new home


Benefits Of The Zero Payment Mortgage

Marion County, Florida, is a beautiful place to live if you're looking for a low-cost home. The County boasts a decent population of just above 100,000 people, with an average income of around $35,000 annually. That's not much to pay on a mortgage! Fortunately, there are no down payments required in Marion County. You can purchase a new home without paying anything at all!

The Veterans Administration (VA) offers veterans and their families home loans. These loans can be used for various reasons, including buying an existing home and building a new one. You may also qualify for additional benefits if you cannot use them due to certain disabilities or hardships caused by military service or combat injuries.

A VA home loan is a great way to finance your new home. A low-interest mortgage allows you to purchase a home with no money down and no credit checks.

If you want to get started on your home buying journey in Marion County, here are some of the benefits you'll enjoy:


Low Down Payment Options

The best way to save on your mortgage is by using zero down payment options. Many lenders require a down payment on the house you want to buy. This means you don't need to come up with any cash upfront before moving into your new house. Instead, you'll only have to make monthly payments until your first mortgage payment comes due.

With the VA, you can choose houses without having to pay any money upfront. Your lender will take out the loan from the Treasury Department's National Mortgage Association or FHA, which guarantees them against default by borrowers who meet specific requirements.


Reasonable Cost of Living

The cost of living here is reasonable, so you won't have trouble making ends meet on your income. The American Community Survey states that the median household income in this area is $44,732 per year. This is higher than the national average of $44,400 per year. According to Zillow, the average home value in Marion County is $188,000.

There are many diverse home options types of homes for sale in Marion County, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. You'll find some incredible deals on real estate here! This makes it relatively affordable compared to other parts of Florida, where homeownership costs more than $200,000 on average.


Top 5 Activities to Do In Marion County, Florida

Marion County is one of the best places in the world to live, work, and play. Marion is home to some of the best outdoor activities in South Carolina. Whether you're looking for something to do with the family or a place to spend quality time with friends, Marion County has something for everyone.

Marion County has many great locations to visit and explore. From the beautiful Lake Murray, which offers boating, fishing, swimming, and more, to the scenic Conestee River Trail, where you can hike through the forest or bring your bike along on your journey.

If you're looking at Marion County from an outdoor standpoint, there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy nature's beauty. The Great Smoky Mountains is an exclusive National Park just 30 minutes from downtown Columbia and offers hiking trails, biking trails, and camping opportunities for all ages! Multiple national forests offer opportunities for hunting, fishing, or bird watching, so check out our list below:


Visit the Museum of the West

Located in historic downtown Idaho City, this museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of the area and its people from prehistoric times through modern times.

You'll learn about local Native American tribes, pioneers, and other settlers who came here by train or covered wagon. You'll also find exhibits on the gold rush, silver mines, and more. Stop by on an open-air stage for concerts throughout the summer months!


Take a Ride on a Steam Train

If you're visiting Marion County during one of our steam train days, you'll have plenty of opportunities to ride with us! This unique experience takes place every weekend from May through October (weather permitting). Your trip will wind through prairies and past open-air theater stages as you travel between our two towns (Idaho City & Coeur d'Alene) on our miniature railway system. Check out our schedule for upcoming rides! All aboard!


Sugar River Canoe/Kayak Trip

The County's major tourist attractions are its collection of freshwater springs that lie under its forests, which were once part of Ocala National Forest and are now part of national forest land split between Lake George Conservation Area and Norfleet Wildlife Management Area.

This trip takes place from April through October and includes a canoe and kayak trail along Sugar Creek. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoor scenery with family and friends!


Hiking

If you love being outdoors, then hiking is something you should try! Hiking is one of the best ways to get exercise and enjoy nature. Hiking trails are located all over Marion County, and there are multiple places to find waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and more. Some of these areas have trails that lead up into the mountains and into wilderness areas, where trees and beautiful scenery will surround you.


Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is a thrillingly exciting sport that requires skill, strength, agility, and balance to ride safely on difficult terrains like hills or rocks. It's not for everyone; those with poor balance or vision problems may find it challenging because the terrain can sometimes be very steep! If you love mountain biking, then Marion County has plenty of trails that will satisfy your cravings for adventure!


Conclusion

VA Loans are available for any veteran eligible for them, whether they served during a time of war or in peacetime. This could be an ideal solution if you're looking for a way to purchase a home without spending any money upfront.

If you qualify for a low-down-payment mortgage, it could be beneficial if you are buying a home in Marion County, Florida. You'll be able to save lots of money upfront by not having to pay as much of your down payment upfront. You can use VA loans for both purchases and refinance, as well as for homes at any price point.

With over 50 years of mortgage industry experience, we are here to help you achieve the American dream of owning a home. We strive to provide the best education before, during, and after you buy a home. Our advice is based on experience with Phil Ganz and Team closing over One billion dollars and helping countless families.

Find The Right Mortgage

For more than 20 years, Phil have been helping customers achieve their home purchase and refinance goals by providing them with invaluable resources and support.

Schedule a FREE Consultation
Phil Ganz

Subscribe to Get Your First Time Homebuyer Checklist

Sign up for the weekly newsletter to stay up to date on the latest real estate market trends, loan news, and so much more!