realestate

Veterans' Home Loan Options Expanded by VALID Act

NAR commends Congressional leaders for supporting veteran homeowners through the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program.

T
he National Association of REALTORS (NAR) commends Congressional leaders for their efforts to enhance the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program, a vital resource for American veterans seeking homeownership. This program has issued over 24 million home loans since its inception and remains a crucial tool for veterans.

    Recently, Representatives Brittany Pettersen, Harriet Hageman, Nikema Williams, and Young Kim introduced the Veterans Affairs Loan Informed Disclosure Act of 2025 (VALID Act), which aims to empower veterans by presenting VA loan options clearly alongside conventional and FHA loans. Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators Chris Van Hollen and John Boozman.

    The VALID Act seeks to increase transparency and accessibility for veterans, allowing them to make informed decisions about their mortgage options. The VA Home Loan Guaranty Program is a unique government program that enables eligible veterans to purchase homes with no down payment, potentially saving thousands of dollars in the process.

    Despite its benefits, usage rates for VA loans remain low, with only 10-15% of eligible veterans utilizing the program nationwide. According to NAR's Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, VA loan usage has increased slightly from 2009 to 2024, but still lags behind other mortgage options.

    National Association of REALTORS President Kevin Sears praised the lawmakers for their efforts, stating that the bill would strengthen the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program and ensure its continued accessibility for veterans. The program has achieved remarkable success, with veteran homeownership rates exceeding 75%, significantly higher than the national average.

    The VALID Act would add military service status to standard mortgage applications, allowing lenders to determine upfront whether a borrower qualifies for a VA loan. NAR executive vice president Shannon McGahn expressed gratitude for the lawmakers' efforts, emphasizing the importance of supporting veterans in today's competitive real estate market.

US Veterans benefit from expanded home loan options through VALID Act legislation.