🏡 For Home Buyers
How do I get pre-approved for a home loan in Fort Walton Beach?
Getting pre-approved is your first power move when buying a home in Fort Walton Beach—and it’s simpler than most people think. A pre-approval gives you a clear budget, shows sellers you’re serious, and helps you move fast in our competitive market.
Here’s how it works based on your situation:
🪖 VA Buyers (Active Duty or Veterans)
If you’re stationed at Eglin or Hurlburt Field, you may qualify for a VA loan—zero down, no private mortgage insurance, and flexible credit requirements. You’ll need your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), recent LES or pay stubs, and a lender who understands VA guidelines.
đź’Ľ Conventional Loan Buyers
Conventional loans typically require a higher credit score and at least 3–5% down. Lenders will look at your W-2s, tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements to assess income and debt-to-income ratio.
🏠FHA Buyers
FHA loans are great for first-time buyers or those with lower credit scores. You’ll need 3.5% down, and lenders will verify steady income, recent employment, and a manageable debt load.
đźš— Rideshare & Self-Employed Buyers
If you’re an Uber, DoorDash, or gig worker, lenders will want to see 2 years of tax returns showing consistent self-employment income. Keep good records—bank statements, 1099s, mileage logs—because proving stability is key.
👩‍👧 Single Parents
As a single parent, you can absolutely get pre-approved! Lenders may count child support or alimony as income (with documentation). If you’re juggling multiple jobs or flexible work, we’ll work together to present your full income picture clearly.
💡 Pro Tip: Not all lenders are created equal—especially when it comes to VA and non-traditional income. I can connect you with local Fort Walton Beach lenders who are experienced, responsive, and great at helping buyers with unique financial situations.
Let me know if you’d like me to walk you through the process or connect you to a lender who fits your needs. I have a few that I trust that deliver
What’s the difference between a VA loan and a conventional loan?
Great question—and one I get often, especially here in the Fort Walton Beach area with so many military families nearby. The biggest difference comes down to who the loan is designed for and what the benefits are.
A VA loan is a government-backed loan available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses. One of the biggest perks is that it typically doesn’t require a down payment and doesn’t charge private mortgage insurance (PMI), which can save buyers hundreds per month. VA loans also tend to have more flexible credit and income requirements, which can be a huge help for military families who may be relocating or starting fresh.
A conventional loan, on the other hand, isn’t backed by the government and is available to any qualified buyer. These loans typically require a down payment (usually 3%–20%) and may include PMI if the buyer puts down less than 20%. Conventional loans can offer more flexibility with property types and loan terms, and they can sometimes be a better fit for buyers with strong credit and stable income.
As your local real estate agent, I work with both VA and conventional buyers all the time, and I’m here to help you find the best financing path based on your specific goals and situation.
