November 10, 2026 | Premiere Capital Mortgage

Illustrative home photograph, not a verified local property, PCM-financed home or statement about the occupants' military service. Photo: Curtis Adams / Pexels.

With Veterans Day approaching, a practical way to prepare for a home purchase is to separate three questions: Am I eligible for the VA home loan benefit? Does a funding fee apply? How much money will I need at closing?

For buyers in Murrieta, Temecula and nearby communities, answering these questions early can make the first mortgage conversation more useful. Bring your questions before choosing a price range based on a headline about VA loans.

1. Start with the Certificate of Eligibility

A Certificate of Eligibility, or COE, confirms to a lender that you qualify for the VA home loan benefit. You can request it online, by mail or, in many cases, through your lender. The documents needed depend on your service history. Veterans generally need discharge or separation papers; active-duty applicants need a signed statement of service. VA's COE instructions explain the different situations.

Keep benefit eligibility and loan approval as separate checkpoints. A VA-backed purchase loan also requires meeting VA and lender credit and income requirements, and the home must be one you intend to live in. A COE alone does not establish an approved purchase budget. VA purchase-loan requirements

2. Ask whether a funding fee applies

The VA funding fee is a one-time charge, with exemptions for qualifying borrowers. Receiving VA compensation for a service-connected disability is one qualifying circumstance; VA lists additional categories. Ask the lender to verify your status rather than assuming everyone pays the fee.

If a fee applies, it can be paid at closing or financed. Financing adds it to your loan balance, so compare the payment and total borrowing cost. The fee depends on factors including loan type, amount and, where applicable, prior use and down payment. On a VA purchase loan, other closing charges cannot simply be rolled into the loan along with that fee. VA funding-fee and closing-cost guidance

3. Review cash to close and the monthly budget

Use the Loan Estimate to move from general program information to your proposed transaction. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau explains that estimated cash to close accounts for the down payment and closing costs, less deposits, seller credits and other adjustments. Review that calculation with the loan officer instead of treating a down-payment figure as your entire cash requirement. CFPB Loan Estimate explainer

Also review the estimated total monthly payment and any taxes, insurance or assessments payable separately. Then make your own list of moving expenses, immediate repairs and savings you want left after closing. Keep that household budget beside the lender's numbers.

Bring three questions to your next conversation

• What is still needed to confirm my eligibility and review my application?

• Has my funding-fee status been checked, and how is any fee shown?

• What cash and monthly costs should I plan for with this specific home?

For help organizing your mortgage questions, contact Premiere Capital Mortgage at (951) 634-9284 or visit pcmloans.net.

Related reading: VA appraisal versus home inspection.

Premiere Capital Investments, Inc. | California DRE #01864769 | NMLS #366413. General educational information only, not a loan offer, commitment to lend, or legal or tax advice. Loan eligibility and terms are subject to application, underwriting and applicable requirements. VA benefit eligibility does not guarantee loan approval. Premiere Capital Mortgage is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency.