Wisconsin Vets Relocation

Wi Vets Relocation Blog

Fitzgerald Seeking Veteran Applicants for Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program

| Advocacy, Employment

As a veteran moving to or living in Wisconsin, you bring a unique set of skills and experiences that can be valuable in various fields. If you are looking for an opportunity to continue your service in a meaningful way and gain valuable experience in the political realm, Congressman Scott Fitzgerald’s office has a special position just for you. The Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program, established by the House of Representatives, aims to provide veterans like you with employment opportunities within member offices. In this blog, we will explore the details of this program and how you can apply for the position in WI-05’s Oconomowoc district office.

What is the Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program?

The Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program is a unique initiative that seeks to create employment opportunities for veterans within the House of Representatives. These two-year positions offer veterans the chance to gain experience and exposure in a professional setting, helping to broaden their career opportunities. The selected candidates will work directly for a Member of Congress as part of their office staff. Positions are available in Congressional District Offices all around the country, including the Oconomowoc district office in WI-05.

Requirements

As a veteran moving to or living in Wisconsin, you bring a unique set of skills and experiences that can be valuable in various fields. If you are looking for an opportunity to continue your service in a meaningful way and gain valuable experience in the political realm, Congressman Scott Fitzgerald’s office has a special position just for you. The Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program, established by the House of Representatives, aims to provide veterans like you with employment opportunities within member offices.

What is the Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program?

The Program is a unique initiative that seeks to create employment opportunities for veterans within the House of Representatives. These two-year positions offer veterans the chance to gain experience and exposure in a professional setting, helping to broaden their career opportunities. The selected candidates will work directly for a Member of Congress as part of their office staff. Positions are available in Congressional District Offices all around the country, including the Oconomowoc district office in WI-05.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Honorable Discharge: Applicants must have been honorably discharged from the military.
  2. Recent Active Duty: You should have been released from active duty within the last six years.
  3. Pay Grades: The program is limited to veterans with terminal pay grades at or below E-5, O-3, or W-2. Veterans promoted to the pay grades of E-6, O-4, and W-3 within 6-months of separation from active duty are also eligible if they meet all other eligibility requirements.
  4. Retirement Status: Veterans who are in receipt of a 20-year or Temporary Early Retirement Authorization (TERA) retirement are not eligible for the program.

Please note that no waivers will be granted for the eligibility requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a Green & Gold Congressional Aide, your duties will vary depending on the specific requirements of the Member Office you are assigned to. Some of the responsibilities may include:

  1. Constituent Services: Working as a constituent services representative, assisting local constituents in resolving issues with federal agencies.
  2. Veterans Support: Serving as a liaison to local Veterans Service Organizations (VSO) and providing support to military and veteran constituents.
  3. Community Engagement: Attending local events and meetings on behalf of your Member of Congress to stay connected with the community.
  4. Legislative Work: Assisting in legislative work, which may involve research, policy analysis, and preparing briefing materials.

The specific duties for each Member Office will be discussed during the interview process, ensuring that your skills and experiences are well-matched with the office’s needs.

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for the Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program, follow these steps:

  1. Review Eligibility: Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements mentioned earlier.
  2. Prepare Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents, including your resume and most recent DD 214 (Member 4 copy).
  3. Online Application: Visit the following link to submit your application: Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program Application.
  4. Contact Information: If you have any questions or need further assistance, you can reach out to the Wounded Warrior Program (aka Green and Gold Congressional Aide Program) at 202-226-1965 or visit their office at CAO, 441 2nd St, Washington, DC 20515.

Benefits of the Program

Participating in the Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program offers numerous benefits for veterans like you:

  1. Meaningful Service: You get the opportunity to continue serving your country and community in a meaningful way, even after leaving active duty.
  2. Professional Growth: The program provides valuable experience in a professional and political environment, which can open up new career paths.
  3. Networking Opportunities: Working directly with a Member of Congress and engaging with the community offers great networking opportunities.
  4. Skill Enhancement: You can develop and enhance various skills, including communication, problem-solving, and legislative understanding.

If you are a veteran living in Wisconsin or considering relocating to the state, the Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program is an excellent opportunity to continue your service and gain valuable experience in the political arena. Congressman Scott Fitzgerald’s office is seeking a veteran to join their team in the Oconomowoc district office to handle veterans-related casework and support military and veteran constituents. Make sure to review the eligibility requirements, prepare the required documents, and submit your application online to be considered for this unique opportunity.

Are you ready to take on a new challenge and make a difference in the lives of your fellow veterans? Apply now for the Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program and embark on a rewarding journey of service and growth.

Sponsorship Opportunities

| Event

Inaugural Veterans Family Ball Save the Date, Saturday, October 28, 2023

Join us for the inaugural Veterans Family Ball on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at the Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee, WI.

Enjoy dinner, a short program, dancing, and family fun with games, a photo booth, door prizes and more.

This event is open to all current military and veterans of the armed forces and their guests/children.

Additionally you may book your stay at the Ingleside Hotel and Waterpark with a special military event rate of $166 a night.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate with your family and fellow service members.

For more information about the event and to register:

Veteran’s Family Ball

The Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtor® Veteran’s Support Committee Announces the following sponsorship opportunities for the Inaugural Veteran Family Ball:

Woodman's Market is sponsoring the Veteran's Family Ball photo booth.
Bill Meisel from APM is sponsoring gift bags for the veteran's family ball.

Thank you to the following donors:

Bill Meisel from APM is a VA loan expert and event sponsor.
Woodman's Markets is a veterans family ball sponsor.
The GMAR is hosting and sponsoring the Veteran's Family Ball.
The MRP agents and wivetsrelocation is sponsoring the veteran's family ball.
Fleet Farm is a sponsor of the Veteran's Family Ball.
Audio Trio DJ Service is doing the music for the veteran's family ball.
Minuteman Press in Brookfield, WI is sponsoring the Veteran's Family Ball.
Shutter Zone Media is sponsoring the Veteran's Family Ball.

Inaugural Veterans Family Ball

| Event, Family, REALTOR®

Join us for the inaugural Veterans Family Ball on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at the Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee, WI.

Enjoy dinner, a short program, dancing, and family fun with games, a photo booth, door prizes and more.

This event is open to all current military and veterans of the armed forces and their guests/children.

Additionally you may book your stay at the Ingleside Hotel and Waterpark with a special military event rate of $166 a night.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate with your family and fellow service members. Register now!

Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Sponsored by GMAR-MRP Realtors Veteran Support Committee

*eventbrite online registration opens June 30th, 2023

Sponsors

Proceeds from raffle and silent auction items shall be donated to Milwaukee Veterans Initiative and Sierra Delta.

VA Minimum Property Requirements for Southeast Wisconsin Veterans

| Housing & Loan

If you’re a veteran looking to purchase a home in southeast Wisconsin using your VA benefits, you must meet certain Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). These requirements are in place to ensure that the property you’re purchasing is safe, structurally sound, and free of health hazards.

Here’s a closer look at some of the major MPR issues you’ll need to be aware of:

  1. Residential properties only Only residential properties are eligible for VA financing. That means office buildings and storefronts are out of the question.
  2. Adequate living space The home must possess enough space for the basic functions of daily life. You should be set as long as your desired property has enough room for living, sleeping, and cooking.
  3. Usable and safe mechanical systems Electrical and plumbing systems must be safe and have some functional life remaining. Minor electrical glitches are no major problem, but an entire home with old knob-and-tube wiring could pose some challenges.
  4. Adequate heating The home’s heating system must be safe and keep a home’s temperature above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Homes with permanently installed non-electric, non-vented fireplaces or space heaters may be eligible, provided the buyer signs a “hold harmless” agreement, and the unit meets applicable codes and has an approved oxygen depletion sensor. Homes that use wood-burning stoves as a primary heating source must also have a conventional heating system to maintain an adequate temperature.
  5. Water availability The home must have a safe water supply, a water heater, and a safe method of sewage disposal. Connection to a public water supply is only required if mandated by local codes or health authorities. Private wells and water supplies must meet local or federal water quality standards.
  6. Adequate roofing The roof must be in good shape and provide “reasonable future utility.” The VA doesn’t specify precisely how long a roof needs to last, but lenders may have a hard number, such as three or five years. Missing shingles or gaping holes will present a problem.
  7. Problem-free basements and crawl spaces Basements and crawl spaces must be dry, clear of debris, and properly vented. Any excessive dampness or pooling of water must be corrected. Leaky basements can be a deal breaker for many VA house hunters. Foundation leaks are common among older homes and can be expensive to correct.
  8. Property access All properties purchased with VA financing need safe access from the street. Homes need to have either private driveways or permanent easements to allow entry. Homes on shared or private roadways often require legal use and maintenance agreements.
  9. No health/safety hazards Nuclear waste, asbestos, and radon are huge red flags for VA appraisers. If these hazards are present, you may be required to have them removed before you can secure financing for the property.

By familiarizing yourself with these MPRs, you can target homes likely to clear the VA appraisal and avoid any surprises during the home-buying process. Additionally, working with a VA-experienced real estate agent can be extremely helpful in navigating these requirements and finding a home that meets your needs and budget.

You may want to take a look at the following related posts:

VA Loans and Student Loans for Military Personnel: What You Need to Know

Fannie Mae Family Opportunity Mortgages: A Lifeline for Veterans in Wisconsin

Buying Your First Home in Wisconsin? Here’s Why You Need an MRP

Moving to or within Wisconsin? START WITH MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL

When military staff and their families relocate, the services of a Military Relocation Professional who understands their needs and timetables makes the transfer easier, faster, and less stressful. 

The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS): Providing Support to Those Who Have Lost a Military Loved One

| Advocacy

History of TAPS

The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1994 by Bonnie Carroll. After her husband, Brigadier General Tom Carroll, died in an Army plane crash, Bonnie was left feeling lost and alone. She started TAPS to provide comfort, care, and support to others who had also lost a loved one serving in the military.

Impact of TAPS

Since its inception, TAPS has provided comfort and support to more than 100,000 surviving family members, loved ones, and caregivers of fallen military heroes. The organization has grown significantly over the years and now offers a wide range of programs and services to those who have lost a loved one in military service.

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) volunteer hugging a child.

TAPS Mission

The mission of TAPS is to provide compassionate care, support, and resources to all those grieving the death of a military loved one. The organization offers peer-based emotional support, grief and trauma resources, casework assistance, and connections to community-based care. TAPS also hosts a variety of programs and events to help survivors build peer connections, honor their loved ones, and cope with their grief.

May-NewsletterDownload

TAPS Programs

TAPS offers a variety of programs and services to support survivors of military loss, including:

  • National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp: This program brings together surviving families from all over the country for a weekend of healing, hope, and support. Children and teens attend the Good Grief Camp, where they participate in age-appropriate activities to help them cope with their grief.
  • TAPS Peer Mentor Program: Survivors can connect with a trained TAPS peer mentor who has also experienced the loss of a military loved one. These mentors provide emotional support, guidance, and resources to those who are grieving.
  • TAPS Casework Assistance: Survivors can receive personalized assistance with benefits, entitlements, and claims related to the death of their loved one.
2023-youngadultsDownload
2023-youthprogDownload

TAPS in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is home to many military families who have lost a loved one in service. TAPS has a presence in Wisconsin and provides support and resources to surviving families in the state including a roundup of local events. Survivors can connect with TAPS through their website or by calling their toll-free helpline (800-959-TAPS (8277). TAPS also hosts five National Relay Routes to support survivors including a route that goes through Wisconsin this month.

TAPS has been a lifeline for many surviving military families since its founding in 1994. The organization provides essential emotional support, resources, and programs to help survivors cope with their grief and honor their loved ones. For those in Wisconsin who have lost a military loved one, TAPS is there to provide comfort and care in their time of need.

You may want to take a look at the following related posts:

Veterans Finding Employment Through VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program

Wreaths Across America Day

Moving to or within Wisconsin? START WITH MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL

When military staff and their families relocate, the services of a Military Relocation Professional who understands their needs and timetables makes the transfer easier, faster, and less stressful. 

Empowering Veterans: The Work of Concerned Veterans for America Foundation in Wisconsin

| Advocacy

As a nonprofit veterans organization, the Concerned Veterans for America Foundation (CVA) is dedicated to providing support and advocacy for veterans across the country. With a focus on free markets, limited government, and constitutional liberties, the CVA Foundation works to ensure that our nation’s veterans receive the care, support, and opportunities they deserve.

Founded in 2012, the CVA Foundation has been making a positive impact on the lives of veterans and their families for almost a decade. One of the ways they do this is by advocating for policies and legislation that support veterans’ access to quality healthcare, education, and employment. In Wisconsin, the CVA Foundation has been actively working to promote these goals and support the veteran community.

CVA Foundation’s Work in Wisconsin

The CVA Foundation has been making a difference for veterans in Wisconsin by advocating for policies and programs that improve access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities. Here are some examples of their work in Wisconsin:

Healthcare

One of the biggest challenges facing veterans in Wisconsin and across the country is access to quality healthcare. The CVA Foundation has been advocating for policies that increase access to care, including expanding the use of telehealth technology and reducing wait times for appointments. They have also been working to improve mental healthcare services for veterans, including increasing access to mental health professionals and providing support for veterans struggling with PTSD.

Education

The CVA Foundation recognizes the importance of education in helping veterans transition back to civilian life and pursue new career paths. They have been advocating for policies that expand educational opportunities for veterans, including expanding the GI Bill to cover vocational training and apprenticeships. They have also been working to increase access to education for veterans in rural areas, who may face additional barriers to accessing higher education.

Employment

Finding meaningful employment can be a significant challenge for veterans, particularly those who have recently transitioned out of the military. The CVA Foundation has been advocating for policies that support veterans’ job training and placement, including increasing funding for job training programs and expanding tax credits for employers who hire veterans. They have also been working to reduce licensing barriers for veterans, making it easier for them to transition into civilian careers.

The Concerned Veterans for America Foundation – Wisconsin is committed to empowering veterans and advocating for policies that improve their access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. Their work in Wisconsin has made a positive impact on the lives of veterans across the state, and they continue to be a leading voice for veterans’ issues. To learn more about the CVA Foundation and their work, visit their website today.

You may want to take a look at the following related posts:

My Vote Wisconsin

8 Reasons to Work With an MRP REALTOR®

Moving to or within Wisconsin? START WITH MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL

When military staff and their families relocate, the services of a Military Relocation Professional who understands their needs and timetables makes the transfer easier, faster, and less stressful. 

Women Veteran Care at VA Milwaukee

| Advocacy, Women Veterans

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a range of benefits and services to veterans, including healthcare, education, and housing assistance. While these services are available to all veterans, the VA recognizes that the needs of women veterans may differ from those of their male counterparts. In Milwaukee, the VA is committed to providing specialized care and support to women veterans.

VA Milwaukee health care supports the health, welfare, and dignity of female Veterans and their families by ensuring equal access to timely, sensitive, and quality care. A Women Veterans Program Manager can help you get the services you need.

According to the VA, there are approximately 2 million women veterans in the United States. In Milwaukee, there are more than 3,000 women veterans who have served our country. These women may face unique challenges when seeking healthcare, employment, and other benefits, which is why the VA in Milwaukee has tailored its services to meet their needs.

Women’s Health Services

The VA in Milwaukee offers comprehensive healthcare services for women veterans, including gynecology, maternity care, and mental health support. The VA has also implemented a Women’s Health Clinic, staffed by a team of female healthcare providers who understand the unique health needs of women veterans. The Women’s Health Clinic offers a range of services, including breast cancer screening, pelvic exams, and contraception counseling.

The women’s health program offers women Veterans comprehensive care, including: 

  • Primary care
  • Gynecology
  • Maternity care, childbirth education classes, and postpartum support
  • Ultrasounds and mammograms
  • Mental health care and counseling
  • Lifestyle wellness services

Employment and Education

In addition to healthcare, the VA in Milwaukee provides support to women veterans who are seeking employment or pursuing education. The VA offers a variety of programs and resources to help women veterans transition from military service to civilian life, including job training and education benefits. The VA also partners with local organizations to provide job fairs and other career-related events specifically for women veterans.

Advocacy and Outreach

Finally, the VA in Milwaukee is committed to advocating for women veterans and raising awareness of their unique needs and challenges. The VA has implemented outreach programs to connect women veterans with the services and benefits they are entitled to, as well as to educate the public about the contributions of women in the military. The VA also provides support to women veterans who may be experiencing homelessness or struggling with mental health issues.

Conclusion

Women veterans in Milwaukee have made significant contributions to our country, and it’s important that they receive the support and care they deserve. The VA in Milwaukee has taken steps to address the unique needs of women veterans, offering specialized healthcare services, employment and education support, and advocacy and outreach. If you’re a woman veteran in Milwaukee, don’t hesitate to reach out to the VA to learn more about the services and benefits available to you.

You may want to take a look at the following related posts:

VA Loans and Student Loans for Military Personnel: What You Need to Know

Women Veteran Care at VA Milwaukee

Moving to or within Wisconsin? START WITH MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL

When military staff and their families relocate, the services of a Military Relocation Professional who understands their needs and timetables makes the transfer easier, faster, and less stressful. 

What You Need to Know About the VA Appraisal Process for Southeast Wisconsin Veterans

| Housing & Loan

VA Appraisal process for Southeast Wisconsin veterans - yellow house with American flag

If you are a veteran located in Southeast Wisconsin and planning to purchase a home using a VA loan, once you’re under contract to purchase a home, the real work starts for your lending team. One of the first steps for your lender is ordering a VA appraisal on the property.

What is a VA Appraisal?

The VA appraisal is an independent VA appraiser’s assessment of the property’s value and condition. VA appraisals are required for every VA purchase loan. But don’t mistake the appraisal for a home inspection, which provides a more in-depth review of the home’s physical condition.

What is a Home Inspection?

It’s important to know that these are two different things, and unlike the appraisal, a home inspection isn’t required when buying a home. But many buyers choose to invest in one. In Southeast Wisconsin, your Military Relocation Professional (MRP) will be able to suggest qualified inspectors and help guide you through the inspection process.

The VA Appraisal Process

If you’re satisfied with the inspection and still want to move forward with the purchase, then you’ll move on to having the lender order the VA appraisal. At that point, your loan team will send a request to the VA, and they’ll assign one of their independent appraisers to your area. It’s worth noting that the VA appraisal serves two purposes. The first is to ensure that the home is worth at least what you’ve offered to pay for it. The second is ensuring the property meets VA and lender guidelines.

Finding Comparable Homes

VA appraisers look for at least three homes similar in size, age, and location to the one you hope to buy. Finding good comps for unique properties like log cabins, A-frames, and homes on large acreage can be tricky. Lenders usually need at least one good recent comparable home sale to move forward on a loan.

Ensuring Safety

The VA appraisal also aims to ensure that homes meet value and are safe, structurally sound, and free of health hazards. In Southeast Wisconsin, VA appraisers will look at the property’s interior and exterior and assess the overall condition. They’ll also recommend any obvious repairs needed to make the home meet the Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). Remember, this isn’t a home inspection, and the VA doesn’t guarantee that the house is free of defects.

VA appraisers will assess the following issues during the MPR inspection process: residential properties only; property must have adequate living space; mechanical systems must be usable and safe; heating must be sufficient; water availability; roofing must be adequate; basements and crawl spaces must be problem-free; property access; and no health/safety hazards. If you’re looking to purchase a home with VA financing in Southeast Wisconsin, it’s crucial to understand the MPRs before you start your house hunt. By knowing some of the red flags and working with a VA-experienced real estate agent, military buyers can target homes likely to clear the VA appraisal.

You may want to take a look at the following related posts:

VA Appraisals: Understanding the Tidewater Act and Reconsideration of Value (ROV)

VA Loans in Wisconsin: Maximize Your Investment Potential

Buying Your First Home in Wisconsin? Here’s Why You Need an MRP

Moving to or within Wisconsin? START WITH MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL

When military staff and their families relocate, the services of a Military Relocation Professional who understands their needs and timetables makes the transfer easier, faster, and less stressful. 

VA / FHA Appraisal Process in Wisconsin: Is Your Home Ready?

| Housing & Loan

A VA / FHA appraiser standing on a step ladder looking at the siding of a house.

Buying or selling a home can be a daunting process, and understanding the appraisal process is an essential part of that journey. The Veterans Affairs (VA) or Federal Housing Administration (FHA) appraisal process is a crucial step in the home buying or selling process, and it is important for both buyers and sellers in Wisconsin to understand how it works.

The VA / FHA appraisal process is designed to ensure that the property being purchased meets certain minimum standards. These standards are in place to protect both the buyer and the lender, as the lender wants to ensure that the property is worth the amount of money being borrowed.

Minimum Standards for VA / FHA Appraisals

The FHA has set minimum property standards for homes to be eligible for FHA-insured loans. These standards are designed to ensure that the property is safe, sanitary, and structurally sound. Some of the minimum standards for FHA appraisals include:

  • The property must be free of any health and safety hazards that could harm the occupants.
  • The roof must be in good condition and able to withstand typical weather conditions.
  • The foundation must be in good condition and not have any significant cracks or other damage.
  • The electrical, heating, and plumbing systems must be in good working order.
  • The property must have adequate drainage and be free of any water damage.

Typical Types of Repairs

If the property being appraised does not meet the minimum standards, the appraiser will provide a list of necessary repairs. These repairs must be made before the loan can be approved. Common repairs required by FHA appraisers include:

  • Repair or replacement of broken windows, doors, or screens.
  • Repair or replacement of leaky or damaged roofs.
  • Installation of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Repair or replacement of faulty electrical, heating, or plumbing systems.
  • Repair of any structural damage to the foundation or walls.

What is Not Required?

It is important to note that the FHA appraisal process does not require the property to be in perfect condition. The appraiser is not looking for cosmetic issues, such as chipped paint or stained carpet. Instead, the appraiser is primarily concerned with health and safety issues and major structural defects.

Similarities and Differences between VA / FHA Appraisal Processes

While the FHA and VA appraisal processes share many similarities, there are some key differences between the two. Like the FHA, the VA has set minimum property standards for homes to be eligible for VA loans. However, the VA also requires an inspection of the property’s mechanical and structural systems, which is not required by the FHA.

Also, the VA requires termite inspections in the following Wisconsin counties:

Wood-destroying insect information is required in the following counties:

  • Columbia
  • Crawford
  • Dane
  • Dodge
  • Grant
  • Green
  • Iowa
  • Jefferson
  • Kenosha
  • Lafayette
  • Milwaukee
  • Ozaukee
  • Racine
  • Richland
  • Rock
  • Sauk
  • Vernon
  • Walworth
  • Washington
  • Waukesha

Misconceptions About the VA / FHA Appraisal Process

One common misconception about the appraisal process is that the appraiser is working for the buyer or the seller. In reality, the appraiser is hired by the lender to provide an unbiased opinion of the value of the property.

Another common misconception is that the appraisal is the same as a home inspection. While the appraiser may note any health and safety issues, their primary focus is on the value of the property, not its condition.

Options for Buyers and Sellers if Repairs are Required

If the appraiser requires repairs before the loan can be approved, there are several options available to both the buyer and the seller.

The requirements for repairs on a VA or FHA loan depend on the lender and the type of loan you are applying for. VA buyers can pay for home repairs needed to close a loan, even if they’re issues related to the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements. On the other hand, FHA loans and other government-backed loans (like USDA and VA) might require an appraisal and repairs before you can get approved. If using a VA loan to buy a home, there are some lenders that required repairs that are specific to VA loans. Ultimately, the repairs must be completed before the closing for the loan to be approved.

The seller can choose to make the necessary repairs themselves, or they can offer the buyer a credit to cover the cost of the repairs. Alternatively, the buyer can choose to take on the responsibility of making the repairs themselves after closing.

Is a Conventional Loan Appraisal Significantly Easier?

Conventional loans are not insured or guaranteed by the federal government, unlike FHA and VA loans. Because of this, the appraisal process for a conventional loan can be somewhat different.

One significant difference is that the appraiser is not required to follow specific guidelines when appraising the property. Instead, the appraiser uses their professional judgment to determine the value of the property based on factors such as location, size, and condition.

While the appraisal requirements for conventional loans may be less stringent than those for FHA or VA loans, the lender may still require repairs to be made before the loan can be approved. The lender may also require a home inspection to be performed to ensure that the property is in good condition.

Another difference between conventional loans and FHA or VA loans is the down payment requirement. While FHA and VA loans may require a lower down payment, a conventional loan may require a down payment of 20% or more. However, there are conventional loan programs available that allow for a lower down payment, such as the Fannie Mae HomeReady and Freddie Mac Home Possible programs.

In general, the appraisal process for conventional loans can be less complicated than that for FHA or VA loans. However, it is still important for buyers and sellers to understand the appraisal process and the potential requirements for repairs or inspections. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent or loan officer can help ensure that the process goes smoothly and that all parties are satisfied with the outcome.

You may want to take a look at the following related posts:

VA Appraisals: Understanding the Tidewater Act and Reconsideration of Value (ROV)

VA Loans and Student Loans For Military Personnel: What You Need To Know

Buying Your First Home in Wisconsin? Here’s Why You Need an MRP

Veterans Finding Employment Through VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program

| Career

Group of veterans sitting in a row holding resumes and searching for work.

Veterans who have a service-connected disability that limits their ability to work or prevents them from working can find employment through VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program. The VR&E program provides services such as job training, education, employment accommodations, resume development, and job seeking skills coaching.

To qualify for the VR&E program, veterans must have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10%. The VR&E program can help veterans with job training and finding employment that accommodates their disability.

You can find more information about the VR&E program on the VA website.

Additional Wisconsin Resources

The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs has a page dedicated to employment resources for veterans. They provide resources for employers who are seeking skilled and talented veterans to join their workforce . The WDVA is dedicated to assisting veterans in transitioning to a civilian career .

The Job Center of Wisconsin also has a page dedicated to employment for veterans. They provide resources such as apprenticeships, hands-on career training, education and a paycheck plus your GI Bill benefits .

Success Stories – Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment.” U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs,

Veterans Finding Employment Through VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program.”

Employment.” Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs

Employment for Veterans – Job Center of Wisconsin

You may want to take a look at the following related posts:

Mission Wisconsin: Connecting Veterans with Employers in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Military and Veteran Educational Benefits

Buying Your First Home in Wisconsin? Here’s Why You Need an MRP

Moving to or within Wisconsin? START WITH MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL

When military staff and their families relocate, the services of a Military Relocation Professional who understands their needs and timetables makes the transfer easier, faster, and less stressful.