VA Home Loans in Madison, New Jersey
VA loans provide an incredible benefit for veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses looking to buy a home in Madison. With $0 down payment required, no monthly mortgage insurance, and competitive interest rates, VA loans make homeownership more affordable for those who served.
Key Benefits of VA Loans in Madison
$0 down payment required (100% financing available)
No monthly mortgage insurance (PMI) ever
Competitive interest rates (often lower than conventional)
No minimum credit score requirement (lender overlays may apply)
Lenient debt-to-income ratios (up to 55% in some cases)
Seller can pay up to 4% toward closing costs
Streamline refinance (IRRRL) for lower rates with minimal paperwork
Assumable loans for future buyers
Funding fee can be rolled into loan amount
Requirements & Qualifications
- 1
Valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from VA
- 2
Minimum credit score typically 580-620 (varies by lender)
- 3
Sufficient residual income for family size and region
- 4
Property must meet VA minimum property requirements
- 5
Must be your primary residence
- 6
Funding fee of 1.25-3.3% (waived for disabled veterans)
- 7
Two years of stable employment (exceptions for recent discharge)
The Process: Step by Step
Obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from VA
Get pre-approved to understand your buying power
Search for homes in Madison meeting VA property standards
Make offer with pre-approval and COE documentation
Complete VA appraisal and property inspection
Final loan approval and closing preparation
Close on your Madison home with $0 down payment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for a VA loan in Madison?
VA loans are available to active-duty service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members (with sufficient service), and eligible surviving spouses. Generally, you need 90 consecutive days of active service during wartime, 181 days during peacetime, or 6 years in the National Guard/Reserves. We can help verify your eligibility and obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
Is there a VA loan limit in Madison?
As of 2020, there is no VA loan limit for borrowers with full entitlement. You can borrow as much as you qualify for based on your income and debt-to-income ratio. For Madison's median home price of $625,000, most eligible veterans can purchase with $0 down. Those with partial entitlement may have limits based on Bergen County's conforming loan limit of $766,550.
What is the VA funding fee?
The VA funding fee ranges from 1.25% to 3.3% of the loan amount, depending on your down payment, loan type, and whether it's your first VA loan. For a first-time VA loan with $0 down, the fee is 2.15%. This fee can be rolled into your loan amount. Veterans with a service-connected disability are exempt from the funding fee entirely.
Can I use a VA loan to buy a condo in Madison?
Yes, but the condo complex must be VA-approved. Many condos in Madison are already approved, but it's important to verify before making an offer. We can check the VA's approved condo list and help you find eligible properties.
Ready to Get Started in Madison?
Let's discuss your va loans options and create a personalized plan for your Madison home.