The VA Home Loan: A Quick Refresher
You already know the highlights: no down payment, no PMI, competitive rates, flexible credit requirements. What many veterans do not know is that the VA loan benefit never expires, it can be used more than once, and as of 2020 there is no loan limit for veterans with full entitlement. You can use this benefit to buy a home at any price point in our market without a required down payment, assuming your income supports it.
Pennsylvania Property Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans
Pennsylvania offers a full property tax exemption for veterans who are 100% permanently and totally disabled as a result of wartime service. This benefit is administered through the State Veterans' Commission and can result in thousands of dollars in annual savings.
To qualify, you must have a 100% permanent and total disability rating from the VA, the disability must be the result of wartime service, the home must be your primary residence, and you must apply through your county assessor's office. For veterans in Montgomery County, the application is submitted through the Montgomery County Board of Assessment. This benefit does not apply retroactively to prior tax years, so apply as early as possible after closing.
The Pennsylvania Keystone Home Energy Loan Program
The Keystone HELP program offers low-interest financing for energy efficiency improvements including HVAC, insulation, windows, and roofing. It is not veteran-specific, but it is widely underutilized by veteran homeowners and can make a meaningful difference in your home's long-term operating costs.
Veterans' Emergency Assistance Programs
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) administers emergency financial assistance programs for veterans facing housing instability. The Montgomery County Veterans Affairs office in Norristown is a direct point of contact for county-level assistance and can connect you with the right programs for your situation.
Philadelphia VA Medical Center Access
One of the most practical reasons to settle in Montgomery County is proximity to the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, located on University Avenue in West Philadelphia. Most communities in Montgomery County are within 30 to 45 minutes of the VAMC, making it highly accessible for veterans who rely on VA healthcare.
The Coatesville VA Medical Center, which serves veterans with specialized programs including mental health and substance use treatment, is about 45 to 60 minutes from most of Montgomery County.
PA Military Family Relief Assistance Program
This program provides financial assistance of up to $3,000 to Pennsylvania National Guard members and their families facing financial hardship related to military service. It is not a homebuying program, but it is a resource worth knowing about if you are currently serving in the Guard.
Working With a Veteran-Friendly Real Estate Team
All of these resources matter, but navigating them alone while also trying to buy a home is a lot. That is where having the right team makes a real difference. We work with veterans regularly, we understand the VA loan process deeply, and we maintain relationships with VA-specialist lenders who will give you their best effort and their honest advice.
We also connect you with professionals who can help you apply for the tax exemptions and other benefits you have earned. We are not just a real estate team. We are advocates for the people who served.
You served Pennsylvania and this country. Let Pennsylvania serve you back. The Shaina McAndrews Team helps veterans buy homes across Montgomery County and the Greater Philadelphia area, and we make sure you go in with every benefit working in your favor. Schedule your free veteran consultation at montcoliving.com. We are honored to work with veterans and their families.
