You’ve served your country. Now it’s time to use one of the strongest benefits you’ve earned, a VA loan.
If you’re looking to buy your dream home in Texas, the VA loan gives you a tactical edge: zero down, no PMI, and flexible approval options.
This guide walks you through the process step by step, with clear actions and zero fluff. Whether you’re PCS-ing to San Antonio or retiring in the Hill Country, we’ll help you navigate the home stretch with confidence.
Start an application with Salute Mortgage today to find your Texas homebuying solutions.
Making your Texas dream home a reality with a VA loan
Texas isn’t just veteran-friendly, it’s VA-loan ready. From no income tax to strong property values and massive military communities, it’s a smart place to put down roots.
The good news? Your VA benefits were designed to simplify the homebuying process.
The better news? With the right team in your corner, you can move fast and make smart decisions in one of the most competitive markets in the U.S.
Let’s break down each step of the process, from getting pre-qualified to getting your keys.
Step 1: Get pre-qualified with a VA-savvy lender
The first step isn’t house-hunting, it’s getting your financial game plan in place.
Pre-qualification shows sellers you’re serious, and it tells your agent (and yourself) what you can realistically afford.
At Salute Mortgage, we move quickly. You can apply online in minutes and get a personalized pre-qualification, often the same day.
Because we’re veteran-founded, we speak your language and cut the fluff. No runaround. No lender overlays. Just fast, clear numbers.
Plus, we use a text-before-call system, so you’ll never be caught off guard. You get control, updates, and full clarity at every turn.
Step 2: Understand your entitlement and budget
VA loan entitlement sounds complicated, but here’s the short version: it’s your borrowing power, backed by the VA.
Most eligible Texas veterans today have full entitlement, which means you can borrow with no down payment, often up to $750,000 or more, depending on your income and creditworthiness.
A few things that impact your budget:
- Debt-to-income ratio (DTI): Most VA loans cap around 41%, but strong files can go higher
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): If you’re active-duty, this counts as income and stretches your purchasing power
- Credit score: Salute typically looks for 580+, though most buyers we help are between 620 and 680
We’ll help you build a realistic, powerful game plan based on what matters, not guesswork.
Step 3: Find a VA-friendly real estate agent in Texas
Next, you need an agent who knows how VA loans actually work. Not every real estate professional understands the nuances, such as appraisal requirements, seller myths, and the VA loan timeline.
That’s where Homebird comes in, our in-house agent matching system that pairs you with Texas-based pros who’ve worked VA deals before. They know how to craft clear offers, establish realistic expectations, and guide you through the inspection and appraisal process.
Whether you’re in Dallas, Austin, or a smaller Texas town, we’ve got a trusted pro ready to go.
Step 4: Shop for homes that meet VA standards
You’re now cleared to house hunt, but not just any home will do. VA loans have Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) that protect you from getting stuck with a fixer-upper you didn’t sign up for.
Qualifying homes typically include:
- Move-in ready single-family homes
- Townhomes and some condos (must be VA-approved)
- New construction (with VA-registered builders)
- Manufactured homes (with permanent foundations)
Avoid homes with major repairs, exposed wiring, or unpermitted additions, as they can slow down the process. Your agent and the Salute Mortgage team will help you flag red flags early.
Step 5: Make a strong offer, VA style
One common myth: VA offers are weaker than conventional ones. That’s flat-out false. A strong VA buyer with full pre-qualification is just as competitive, if not more.
Here’s how to position your offer in Texas:
- Submit a pre-qualification letter from a trusted VA lender like Salute
- Offer a competitive earnest deposit, especially in tight markets
- Be flexible on closing, or mirror the seller’s timeline to reduce friction
- Explain your VA advantage: Zero down doesn’t mean risky because you’re qualified with a government-backed loan
Our team helps structure your offer for maximum appeal, without compromising your goals.
Step 6: Navigate appraisal, underwriting, and closing
Once you’re under contract, the process shifts to behind-the-scenes action. Here’s what to expect:
- VA appraisal: Beyond checking the home’s value, it checks that the home meets safety and livability standards. We help prep for this so there are no surprises.
- Underwriting: Our team reviews income, assets, credit, and service documentation. We communicate every step, and you can upload documents securely online.
- Closing: Once cleared, we schedule a closing day that works for you. Texas has quick turnarounds, so many buyers close in under 30 days with Salute.
You’ll get reminders, checklists, and updates throughout. We don’t leave you guessing.
What sets Salute apart for VA buyers in Texas
You’ve got options. But here’s what makes Salute the go-to for Texas VA buyers:
- Veteran-led trust: We’re founded by a U.S. veteran who’s been in the mortgage world for 26 years
- Speed and simplicity: Fast pre-qualifications, no overlays, no bottlenecks
- Homebird agent support: Real, VA-educated agents who make deals happen
- SMS-first communication: We respect your time. You’ll never be stuck on hold or lost in a call queue
In a competitive Texas market, these details matter. They turn confusion into confidence, and delays into closings.
Final word: You’re closer to home than you think
Buying a home with a VA loan isn’t just feasible, it’s a strategic move. When used right, your VA benefit can open doors others can’t. No PMI. No down payment.
Just straightforward homeownership, backed by a team that’s walked in your boots.
With Salute Mortgage, your mission becomes our mission. We’re here to guide, support, and execute every step of the way.
Want a tactical edge on your Texas home search? Get pre-qualified with Salute Mortgage now.
