As we end this fall season post-Thanksgiving, it’s a good time to pause with grateful hearts. We’re blessed to live in a country where—despite our challenges—we enjoy freedoms, opportunities, and the ability to build a life rooted deeply in the place we call home. For many families, including our veterans and active-duty service members, that dream of homeownership is one of the greatest blessings of all.
Our veterans have given so much, and one of the ways our nation gives back is through the VA home loan benefit—an opportunity that allows qualifying veterans to purchase a home with favorable terms and, in many cases, no money down. Misconceptions still linger around VA loans, sometimes leading sellers to hesitate unnecessarily. When both sides have professional guidance by those who understand the process, a VA loan can move just as smoothly as any other type of financing.
One common concern is that VA loans take longer to close. In truth, many VA transactions close in as little as 30 days. With clear communication between Realtors and confirmation that the buyer is already VA-qualified, timelines typically mirror conventional loans.
Another concern is that VA appraisals are excessively strict. VA appraisers are simply looking for a sound structure, safe living conditions, and major systems in reasonable working order—standards not much different from those of a typical home inspection. The appraisal is not an inspection, nor does it replace one.
Sellers also sometimes worry that buyers using a VA loan can’t pay certain fees. Today, they can pay standard inspection costs, termite reports, and many normal closing fees. They generally aren’t asking for more seller concessions than any other buyer; in fact, many VA buyers pay money down and are strong, well-qualified purchasers.
Whether it’s a veteran using their well-earned benefits or a first-time buyer working to get a foot in the door, it can seem daunting. Yet compared to generations past—those who built their homes from scratch, lived off the land, or traveled great distances without modern conveniences—we have remarkable resources at our fingertips. Down payment assistance programs, lending options, and experienced real estate professionals all help make the dream of owning a home more accessible than ever.
This season, whether your Thanksgiving was bustling or quiet, let’s all take a moment to be thankful: thankful for the freedoms we enjoy, for the opportunities provided in this country, and for the ability to own our own piece of land—something generations before us fought, worked, and sacrificed to make possible.
And especially, let’s be thankful for the men and women who have served and continue to serve. May we honor them not only with gratitude, but by helping them access the home they deserve.
Deanne Nelson is the Broker Owner of New Key Realty in Nashville TN. Her passion for real estate started 17 years ago when she decided to pursue it as her career. She carries a license in both TN and FL. Deanne fell in love with Tennessee in the early 90s, moved here, and is a graduate of Belmont University. Deanne currently serves on various committees and is Chair of the Membership Committee at Greater Nashville Realtors. She intends to give back to the community by being a positive influence and impact within the real estate industry for the consumer and other agents.
