You should contact VA-approved private lenders (banks, credit unions, mortgage companies) to compare rates, as the VA does not directly issue loans or set interest rates; they guarantee a portion of the loan made by these lenders. Start by obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which you have, and then shop multiple lenders, comparing not only interest rates but also Annual Percentage Rate (APR), lender fees, and discount points. Importantly, if you have a VA disability rating of 10% or higher, you are exempt from the VA funding fee per **38 CFR 3.400(o)(2)**, a significant financial advantage you must affirmatively claim with your lender. For service-connected disabilities that impact mobility, also inquire about the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) or Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grants (**38 CFR 3.809, 38 U.S.C. ยง 2101**), which can provide substantial funds for adapted housing. Your disability compensation, being tax-free, can improve your debt-to-income ratio calculation, enhancing your buying power as recognized in precedents like *Buchanan v. Nicholson*. Actionable next steps: 1) Gather your DD-214, COE, and VA award letter; 2) Get pre-qualified with at least three different VA-approved lenders to compare formal Loan Estimates; 3) Explicitly confirm your funding fee exemption with each lender during the application process.
*Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes regarding VA benefits and procedures and is not intended as legal, financial, or medical advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult with a VA-accredited attorney, claims agent, or a qualified mortgage professional.*
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