The VA home loan is one of the most flexible and borrower-friendly financing options available. However, all VA loans come with specific rules about what types of properties you can buy.
For eligible service members and veterans in Texas, knowing which homes qualify under VA guidelines can make your home search faster, smoother, and more strategic.
Texas offers a wide range of real estate, from single-family homes in small towns to duplexes in fast-growing military markets.
The key is understanding how VA loans work with each type of property and how to position yourself to get approved.
This guide walks through the major property types you can finance with a VA loan in Texas, and what to avoid.
Start an application with Salute Mortgage today.
What types of properties are eligible for a VA loan in Texas?
VA loans are designed to help eligible veterans and active-duty service members purchase a primary residence, not investment properties or vacation homes.
Within that guideline, however, the VA allows for a wide variety of property types:
- Single-family homes: The most common and straightforward option. These are detached homes designed for a single family.
- Multi-unit homes: VA loans can be used to buy a duplex, triplex, or fourplex, as long as the borrower lives in one of the units.
- Condos and townhomes: Eligible if the complex is approved by the VA. This requires a special approval process, often handled by your lender.
- New construction: VA loans can be used for newly built homes, provided the builder is registered with the VA and the home meets all minimum property standards.
- Manufactured and modular homes: Allowed with some restrictions, including permanent foundations and title verification.
No matter what type of property you choose, it must meet the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs), which ensure the home is safe, sanitary, and structurally sound.
Can you use a VA loan for a duplex or fourplex in Texas?
Yes, and for many military borrowers, it’s one of the smartest moves you can make. The VA allows you to purchase up to a four-unit property using a single VA loan, as long as you plan to live in one of the units full-time.
This is a popular tactic among military families and veterans pursuing “house hacking”, using rental income from the other units to offset the mortgage payment.
Here are a few Texas-specific tips:
- Strong rental markets: Cities like San Antonio, Killeen, and El Paso offer high demand for rentals near military bases
- Property condition: Multi-units must still pass the VA’s appraisal and MPR inspection, just like single-family homes
- Occupancy requirement: You must move in within 60 days of closing and stay for at least 12 months
Multi-unit homes can also serve as a stepping stone for building a real estate portfolio over time. VA loans make that possible without needing a second mortgage or a big down payment.
Are condos and townhomes eligible for VA financing?
Yes, if the development is VA-approved. The VA maintains a national list of approved condo projects, which your lender can help you review.
In Texas, many larger condominium developments near urban centers, such as Austin, Dallas, and Houston, are already approved.
Important considerations:
- Shared walls: Townhomes with their own lot and no shared ownership of common elements may not need VA condo approval
- HOA restrictions: The VA wants to ensure that HOAs don’t impose unfair leasing restrictions or financial obligations on buyers
- Documentation delays: Approval can take time if the development isn’t already on the VA list, so plan accordingly
Salute Mortgage can help buyers verify condo approval status early in the process, so you don’t waste time on ineligible properties.
What are the rules for buying new construction with a VA loan?
Buying new in Texas is often a smart move, especially in areas with steady population growth and rising home values. But VA loans for new construction do require a few extra steps.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Builder must be VA-approved: This registration confirms the builder will meet VA construction guidelines and timelines
- Inspections are mandatory: The VA may require multiple inspections during the build to ensure quality and code compliance
- Loan type matters: You’ll either use a VA construction loan (harder to find) or finance the completed home once it’s ready
In many cases, builders will partner with VA lenders or offer pre-approved spec homes that meet VA requirements.
At Salute Mortgage, we help coordinate builder documentation and inspections so you’re not left guessing mid-construction.
Can you buy a manufactured or modular home with a VA loan?
Yes, but the rules are stricter than for traditional single-family homes. Here’s what qualifies:
- The home must be permanently affixed to a foundation (no trailers or mobile homes on wheels)
- The borrower must own the land or purchase it as part of the loan
- The home must be classified as real property, not personal property
- The unit must pass a VA appraisal and MPRs, just like any other property
Manufactured homes can offer affordability, especially in rural parts of Texas, but not all lenders are willing to finance them.
Salute Mortgage can help identify eligible properties and review local zoning rules before you make a commitment.
What properties are not allowed with a VA loan?
While VA loans are flexible, they are not designed for investment speculation or vacation homes. Here’s what’s off-limits:
- Second homes or vacation properties: Even if they’re within Texas, you must intend to live in the home as your primary residence
- Investment-only purchases: Properties bought solely for rental income, with no plan to occupy, are not VA eligible
- Fix-and-flips or distressed homes: If the home requires significant repairs to meet livability standards, it may not pass the VA appraisal
- Farmland with no residential structure: VA loans can be used for rural homes, but not for agricultural purchases with no primary dwelling
If in doubt, consult with a VA lender early in your home search to ensure the property qualifies.
How Salute Mortgage helps you find the right VA-approved property
At Salute, we guide Texas veterans and military families to smart, VA-compliant home purchases. Here’s how we support you:
- Fast, accurate pre-approvals: Know your numbers and eligibility upfront
- Homebird agent support: We pair you with real estate agents who know how to write winning VA offers
- Property reviews: We flag potential appraisal or MPR concerns early to avoid deal-killing surprises later
- Builder and condo support: We help verify approval status and assist with builder registration if needed
Our job is to make sure your VA benefit works for you, without delays or confusion.
Not sure what properties qualify for your VA benefit in Texas?
You served. You earned this benefit. Now it’s time to use it wisely.
Whether you’re looking at a duplex near base, a new build in the suburbs, or a condo in the city, our team can help you find and finance the right home, fast.
Reach out to Salute Mortgage right now to explore your VA loan options.
