A VA loan is a mortgage benefit available to active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses, backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The standout feature is zero down payment required, plus no private mortgage insurance, which can save you hundreds monthly.

VA loans typically offer competitive interest rates and more lenient credit requirements than conventional loans. There's a one-time funding fee (which can be rolled into the loan), but the overall savings and accessibility make this one of the most valuable military benefits. If you're eligible, it's worth exploring.