Free VA checklist
The Free VA Loan Checklist
A plain-English, printable checklist for veterans, service members, and military families, from your COE to closing day.
What's inside the VA Loan Checklist
- How to get your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), and which documents prove service: DD-214, statement of service, NGB-22
- Full vs. remaining entitlement, in plain English
- VA funding fee basics, including who's typically exempt
- A document checklist for pre-approval
- The VA home buying steps, from pre-approval through the VA appraisal to closing
- Questions to ask any loan officer before you commit
For military families near JB McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst
My branch is in Medford, a short drive from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Whether you're stationed at the joint base, transitioning out, or a veteran who's been in South Jersey for years, the checklist walks you through what to gather before you start house hunting. I'm licensed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida, so it works for a PCS move too.
Want the full explanation? Read my VA loans in New Jersey guide or compare all loan programs.
Loans by Hutch and NEXA Mortgage, LLC dba NEXA Lending are not affiliated with or endorsed by the VA or any government agency. Content summarized from VA.gov and subject to change.
David J. Hutchison II, NMLS #63021 · NEXA Mortgage, LLC dba NEXA Lending, Company NMLS #1660690 · Equal Housing Opportunity
FAQ
Common questions
Is the checklist really free?
Yes. There is no cost and no obligation, and requesting it is not a loan application.
Who is the checklist for?
Veterans, active-duty service members, Guard and Reserve members, eligible surviving spouses, and their families who are thinking about buying a home with a VA loan.
Do I need my DD-214 to get started?
It helps, but in many cases your loan officer can request your Certificate of Eligibility online. The checklist explains what to have ready if more documents are needed.
Loans by Hutch and NEXA Mortgage, LLC dba NEXA Lending are not affiliated with or endorsed by HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, or any government agency. Program details summarized from official sources and subject to change.
Next step
Let's talk through your options
No credit pull and no Social Security number, just a conversation. I'll compare lenders and explain everything in plain English.
Need a real estate agent? I can refer you to experienced NJ agents, including agents who know VA loans well. Ask for an agent referral.
Last updated Oct 2026