They Served For Us.
Now We Serve Them.
Get your VA home loan with no lender overlays and no minimum credit score requirements. We underwrite directly to VA guidelines — the way it should be.
0% down is available to eligible borrowers on VA purchase loans. Subject to VA eligibility and qualification; not a commitment to lend. Contact us for complete terms and APR.
Why Veterans Choose Cornerstone
No Lender Overlays
We underwrite directly to VA guidelines
No 620 Credit Requirement
Unlike other lenders, we don't add credit score minimums
In-House VA Specialists
Dedicated team that understands veteran needs
Most lenders require 620+ credit score
We don't add overlays. If you're eligible for a VA loan, we can help — regardless of credit score.
Get Your VA Loan Pre-Qualification
Answer a few questions to see your personalized options
What's your loan purpose?
How do you plan to use your VA loan benefit?
The VA Loan Experience You Deserve
We don't just process VA loans — we specialize in them. Our commitment is to help every eligible veteran achieve homeownership, regardless of credit challenges.
No Lender Overlays
Most VA lenders add their own restrictions on top of VA guidelines — we don't. We underwrite directly to VA standards, giving you access to the full benefits you've earned.
- Direct to VA guidelines
- No additional lender restrictions
- Maximum flexibility for veterans
No 620 Credit Score Requirement
The VA doesn't set a minimum credit score, but most lenders require 620-640. We don't add these overlays. If you're eligible for a VA loan, we work to get you approved.
- No minimum credit score overlay
- We work with your situation
- Case-by-case underwriting
In-House VA Specialists
Our underwriting team specializes exclusively in VA loans. They understand the unique needs of veterans and know how to navigate complex situations that other lenders won't touch.
- Dedicated VA loan experts
- In-house underwriting
- Faster decisions, fewer surprises
Fast, Efficient Closings
With our experienced team and streamlined process, we close VA loans quickly. Pre-approval in 24 hours, clear communication throughout, and a team that respects your time.
- 24-hour pre-approval
- Clear communication
- On-time closings
Full VA Benefits Access
0% down payment, no PMI, competitive rates — we ensure you get every benefit the VA loan program offers. Your service earned these benefits; we make sure you receive them.
- Zero down payment
- No private mortgage insurance
- Competitive interest rates
We Honor Your Service
You served our country with honor. We believe you deserve a lender who treats you with the same respect. No pressure, no games — just honest guidance.
- Transparent process
- No high-pressure tactics
- Your advocate, not just a lender
The Overlay Difference
See how lender overlays limit your options — and how we remove those barriers.
| Requirement | Most Lenders | Cornerstone |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Credit Score | 620-640 | None (VA guidelines) |
| Debt-to-Income Ratio | 41-45% | Up to 60%+ |
| Employment Gap Restrictions | Strict limits | Case-by-case |
| Recent Credit Events | Long waiting periods | Flexible review |
| Self-Employment Income | 2 years required | 1 year may qualify |
Don't let overlay restrictions keep you from the home you've earned.
See if you qualifyLast updated: July 28, 2026
VA Loan Requirements & Eligibility, Explained
A VA loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that lets eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and qualifying surviving spouses buy a home with zero down payment and no private mortgage insurance. The VA itself sets no minimum credit score — Cornerstone First Mortgage underwrites directly to VA guidelines and adds no lender overlays.
Key takeaway: VA-eligible borrowers can finance 100% of a home's purchase price with no down payment and no PMI. Most lenders add overlays — extra rules on top of VA guidelines — that Cornerstone does not, so eligibility is decided by VA standards rather than a lender's minimum credit score.
VA Loan Requirements at a Glance
The core mechanics of the VA home loan program, and how Cornerstone applies them:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Down payment | Zero down — 100% financing for eligible borrowers. |
| Private mortgage insurance (PMI) | None required on VA loans. |
| Minimum credit score | No VA-set minimum. Most lenders add a 620–640 overlay; Cornerstone does not. |
| VA funding fee | One-time fee that can be financed into the loan. Waived for veterans with a service-connected disability. |
| Debt-to-income ratio | Underwritten directly to VA guidelines, with no added lender overlay cap. |
| Who is eligible | Eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and qualifying surviving spouses. |
Frequently Asked Questions About VA Loans
What credit score do I need for a VA loan?
The VA does not set a minimum credit score requirement. While most lenders require 620-640, Cornerstone First Mortgage underwrites directly to VA guidelines with no credit score overlay. If you are eligible for a VA loan, we can help regardless of credit score.
What are VA loan overlays?
Overlays are additional requirements that lenders add on top of VA guidelines. Common overlays include minimum credit scores (620-640), stricter debt-to-income limits (41-45%), and employment gap restrictions. Cornerstone First Mortgage does not add overlays - we underwrite directly to VA guidelines.
What is the VA loan down payment requirement?
VA loans require zero down payment for eligible veterans. This is one of the most significant benefits of the VA loan program. You can finance 100% of the home purchase price.
Do VA loans require PMI?
No, VA loans do not require Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). Instead, there is a one-time VA Funding Fee which can be financed into the loan. Veterans with service-connected disabilities are exempt from the funding fee.
Common VA Loan Scenarios
Every veteran's situation is different. These guides walk through the situations we get asked about most:
After bankruptcy (TX & AZ)
Chapter 7 vs 13 seasoning and community-property notes.
VA loan + down payment assistance
How DPA covers closing costs and the funding fee.
Self-employed veterans
The 2-year income rule, add-backs, and exceptions.
Choosing a VA Lender
Not all VA lenders are the same — overlays, credit flexibility, and service vary widely. These honest rankings show which lenders fit which situation: