For more info on benefits and resources that help veterans with homeownership and housing, click here.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) acquires properties that have gone into foreclosure on VA-guaranteed and VA-financed home loans. These properties, otherwise known as VA REO or Veterans Affairs Real Estate-Owned, are then put back on the market by private property managers that work as contractors for the VA.

Earlier in the year, a company called Vendor Resource Management (VRM) signed a 10-year contract with the VA for program management, marketing, and handling this inventory of foreclosed homes, that can vary from condos to single-family to even multi-family units.

While some are listed by local agents nationwide, many of the properties can be viewed at this website. Either click on the state to the left to see a full listing, or enter search criteria in the fields to the center right of the page and and then hit “submit.”

As with traditional foreclosures, good deals can be found, primarily due to the fact that lenders will often offer significant discounts to sell the property fast.

Things to Know About VA REO Properties

 

VA loans and other mortgage programs can be used to finance them. To know more about the VA Home Loan, check out this resource here. Remember, the VA Home Loan is zero money down (within loan limits), allows for no private mortgage insurance, and can be used again and again. It also never expires.

VA Vendee financing — a VA-backed loan program, is also an option. It can provided fixed-rate terms (15 or 30 years) but with lower interest rates.

To check on eligibility status for either of these types of loans (VA direct or VA-backed) first, apply for a COE (Certificate of Eligibility).

VA-owned properties can be purchased by nonmilitary too. One doesn’t have to possess a military background to purchase one of the homes on the list. Similarly, a VA mortgage program doesn’t have to be utilized either. An FHA Loan, for example, can be used in their stead. This type is insured by the Federal Housing Administration (which is part of HUD — the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development).

It’s different than buying a traditional home. There are things you have to keep an eye on, like if the property needs repairs and renovations or worse — like termite problems, mold, a poor foundation or plumbing or septic issues. Hiring a good building inspector is highly-recommended.

Going this route also has its advantages, however. Public information is available on other local, similar REO sales and can be reviewed to avoid agreeing to an overpriced deal.