VA loans are an exclusive benefit for veterans, active duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses. Enjoy zero down payment, no PMI, and competitive rates.
No obligation. No credit check to get started.
California is the largest mortgage market in the country by dollar volume. Most coastal and Bay Area counties are designated high-balance, with conforming limits of $1,209,750 — meaningfully above the national floor. Median home prices in San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Marin counties remain above $1.5M.
A VA loan is a government-backed mortgage guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, designed exclusively for those who have served.
VA loans are one of the most powerful home financing benefits available to American veterans, active duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and eligible surviving spouses. Backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, these loans allow qualified borrowers to purchase a home with no down payment and no private mortgage insurance — benefits that are virtually unmatched in the mortgage industry.
Because the VA guarantees a portion of each loan, lenders like Lending Arena can offer significantly more favorable terms than conventional financing. This guarantee reduces the lender's risk, which translates into lower interest rates, relaxed credit requirements, and the elimination of costly mortgage insurance premiums.
The VA loan program was established in 1944 as part of the GI Bill to help returning service members purchase homes without needing a large down payment or perfect credit. Today it remains one of the most significant benefits of military service.
Exclusive advantages for those who served.
Purchase your home with $0 down. VA loans are one of the only mortgage programs that allow 100% financing.
Unlike conventional and FHA loans, VA loans never require private mortgage insurance — saving you hundreds per month.
VA loans consistently offer some of the lowest interest rates on the market, thanks to the VA guarantee.
Key requirements to qualify.
90 consecutive days active during wartime, 181 days during peacetime, or 6 years in the National Guard or Reserves. Surviving spouses may also qualify.
You'll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA. We can help you obtain it, often within minutes via the VA's online portal.
While the VA itself sets no minimum, most lenders require 620+. Lending Arena works with borrowers across a wide credit spectrum.
VA loans are for primary residences only. You must intend to move into the home within 60 days of closing.
Getting your VA loan is straightforward.
We help you obtain your Certificate of Eligibility from the VA, often in minutes.
Complete our simple application and our team reviews your financials to determine borrowing power.
Shop with confidence. The VA appraisal will ensure the home meets minimum property requirements.
Sign your final documents, get the keys, and move into your new home with no surprises.
Answers to the most common questions about va loans in California.
Lending Arena offers the full mortgage product set across California. See what else might fit your situation.
Lending Arena, NMLS #1603937. Licensed by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act and/or the California Finance Lenders Law. Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information requests can be submitted to privacy@lendingarena.com.