Non-Conventional Home Loans: FHA & VA Mortgage Options | AAA Capital Funding, Inc.

Non-Conventional Home Loans: Flexible FHA & VA Mortgage Options

Finding the right home loan can feel overwhelming, but at AAA Capital Funding, our goal is simple: to connect you with the best mortgage for your unique financial life. We specialize in non-conventional mortgage options—specifically FHA Loans and VA Loans—which are essential programs backed by the U.S. government to make homeownership more accessible.

FHA HUD Logo
Official VA Loan Logo

I. What Is a Non-Conventional Mortgage Loan?

A non-conventional loan is any home loan that is guaranteed or insured by a federal government agency. This is the core difference from a Conventional loan, which is not federally backed and typically has stricter requirements.

These government-backed programs were specifically designed to open the door to homeownership for deserving individuals who might not qualify for traditional financing, such as first-time buyers, veterans, or those who have had past credit challenges. The two most common and powerful non-conventional options are FHA Loans and VA Loans.

VA: Up to 100% Financing

Qualified veterans can purchase a home with zero money down—the most significant benefit available in mortgage lending today.

FHA: Low 3.5% Down Payment

The FHA program allows borrowers to qualify with as little as a 3.5% down payment and 100% financing also available, making it ideal for first-time buyers.

Flexible Credit Guidelines

Both FHA and VA loans offer more lenient credit and debt-to-income (DTI) standards compared to stricter conventional loans.

VA: No Monthly Mortgage Insurance

A key advantage of the VA loan is the elimination of monthly Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), leading to substantial savings.

Loans Are Assumable

Both VA and FHA mortgages can be assumed (transferred) to a qualified buyer, making your home more attractive when it's time to sell.

Low, Fixed Interest Rates

Because they are government-backed, these loans often feature competitive and stable fixed interest rates.

II. Why Choose AAA Capital Funding?

AAA Capital Funding Logo
  • Expertise in complex COE and entitlement scenarios.
  • Priority use of the Residual Income method for qualification.
  • Specialized VA Cash-Out and Streamline (IRRRL) refinance programs.
  • Guaranteed 24/7 Accessibility: Loan officers always answer calls, day or night.
  • Streamlined process for VA disability funding fee waiver verification.
  • Proactive scheduling of VA appraisals (TID requests) to speed up closing.
  • Competitive rates and transparent fee structures, prioritizing your savings.

Other Mortgage Lenders and Banks

  • Inexperienced with the complex VA Residual Income calculation.
  • Often delays processing COE or disability waivers.
  • Lack of dedicated VA appraisal and underwriting team.
  • Imposes unnecessary internal credit score overlays (stricter minimums).
  • Poor communication, especially outside of standard business hours.
  • Longer closing times due to lack of familiarity with VA process.
  • High volume-based approach lacking personalized service.

III. Deep Dive: FHA Loans & VA Loans

FHA Loans: Affordable Home Financing

Insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), this loan is widely considered the best choice for first-time homebuyers and individuals with a moderate credit history.

  • Low Down Payment: Requires only 3.5% down for those with credit scores of 580 or higher. We also have 100% FHA financing options available.
  • Flexible Qualification: FHA guidelines are designed to be forgiving of past financial issues, such as bankruptcy (typically two years out) or foreclosure (typically three years out).
  • Mortgage Insurance (MIP): It is critical to understand that mortgage insurance is required on all FHA loans, regardless of your down payment. This insurance protects the lender and is mandatory unless you refinance into a conventional loan later on.

VA Loans: Exclusive Military Benefits

Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this is an earned benefit and offers the most powerful mortgage advantages for those who have served our country.

  • Zero Down, No PMI: The two ultimate benefits—no down payment and no monthly private mortgage insurance—significantly reduce the cost of homeownership.
  • Eligibility is Key: This program is exclusively for qualified veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving military spouses. Eligibility is confirmed via a Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
  • Reusability: The benefit is reusable! Once you pay off or sell the home, your full entitlement is restored for your next purchase.

IV. Non-Conventional Loan Requirements & Eligibility

Combined FHA and VA Standards for Loan Qualification
Minimum Credit Score (Middle Score)
We typically work with FHA scores of 580 and VA scores starting as low as 550. We use the middle score from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Minimum Down Payment
VA Loan: 0% Down. FHA Loan: 3.5% Down and also 100% financing options.
Income and Asset Verification
We require the past two years of W-2s/pay stubs (wage earners) or personal/business tax returns (self-employed). Bank statements are needed to verify closing funds.
Gift Funds
Allowed, provided they are from a verifiable source and are not cash or untraceable funds.
Eligible Property Types
Single-family homes, townhomes, villas, and 2- to 4-unit multi-family properties (as long as you occupy one unit). Condos must be FHA- or VA-approved.

V. Non-Conventional Loan Quick Facts

Minimum VA Score

550

Minimum FHA Score

580

VA Down Payment

0%

FHA Down Payment

3.5%

Pre-Payment Penalty

No

Closing Cost Assistance

Yes

VA Monthly PMI

None

FHA Monthly MIP

Required

Let AAA Capital Funding Guide You to the Right Non-Conventional Loan

Whether you're ready for 0% VA financing or need the low 3.5% down of an FHA loan, our HUD and VA Approved Loan Officers will help you choose the best government-backed option for your needs.

Start Your Non-Conventional Loan Application Now and Get Pre-Approved

Specialized service and competitive rates since 1997. NMLS #374739.

AAA Capital Funding, Inc. NMLS #374739. All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. Program terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. The FHA and VA loan programs are available to eligible borrowers meeting respective government and lender guidelines.