Fort Lauderdale isn’t just a popular destination for sunseekers, it’s also home to thousands of military veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families. Whether you’re stationed nearby, retiring in South Florida, or relocating to start fresh after service, buying a home here can be both exciting and overwhelming.
The good news? VA loans are designed to make homeownership more accessible for those who’ve served. With no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and competitive rates, they’re one of the most powerful financing tools available to veterans.
But here’s the catch: not all lenders handle VA loans the same way. If you’re navigating the Fort Lauderdale housing market, working with a VA loan specialist, someone who knows the ins and outs of the process, isn’t just helpful. It can save you serious time, money, and stress.
This article highlights the top VA loan providers in the area, with a focus on those who truly specialize in helping veterans. And at the top of that list is Select Home Loans, known for putting service members first with fast approvals, clear communication, and local market expertise.
What Is a VA Loan and Who Qualifies?
A VA loan is a mortgage backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It’s not issued directly by the VA, but by approved lenders, and it’s built specifically for service members, veterans, and certain eligible spouses.
What makes VA loans so valuable?
- No down payment required
- No PMI, which saves you hundreds per month
- Competitive interest rates
- Lenient credit requirements
- Limitations on closing costs
These benefits are hard to beat, especially in a competitive real estate market like Fort Lauderdale.
Who qualifies for a VA loan?
You may be eligible if:
- You served 90 consecutive days during wartime or 181 days during peacetime
- You’ve served more than 6 years in the National Guard or Reserves
- You’re the surviving spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty or from a service-related disability
To get started, you’ll need to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), usually along with your DD-214 or other service documentation. A true VA loan specialist can help you get that paperwork squared away fast.
Why Work With a VA Loan Specialist (Not Just Any Lender)
Here’s the thing: any mortgage lender can technically offer a VA loan, but not every lender understands how to do it right.
VA loans come with their own set of rules and paperwork, and if your lender isn’t experienced, you could run into delays, unexpected denials, or even lose out on the home you want.
A VA loan specialist knows:
- How to interpret and submit VA-specific forms
- What to do when appraisals or inspections come back with issues
- How to navigate exceptions for reservists or unique family situations
- How to help veterans with lower credit or non-traditional income
They’re also more likely to identify exemptions, like waiving the VA funding fee if you have a service-connected disability.
Most importantly, they understand that this isn’t just another loan. It’s about serving those who’ve already served. That’s why your choice of lender matters more than ever.
Next up: we’ll look at the top VA loan providers in Fort Lauderdale, starting with Select Home Loans, the local leader in veteran home financing.
#1 – Select Home Loans (Best for Personalized Service and Fast Closings)
When it comes to VA loans in Fort Lauderdale, Select Home Loans stands in a category of its own. This isn’t just a company that offers VA loans, they specialize in them.
Select Home Loans understands that no two veterans are the same, and neither are their financial situations. That’s why they go beyond cookie-cutter loan programs and take a hands-on approach to every application.
Why They’re #1:
- Veteran-focused process that walks you through eligibility, documents, and pre-approval
- Fast turnarounds thanks to in-house underwriting and direct VA experience
- Local market knowledge of Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods and real estate trends
- Zero-pressure consultations, they’re not here to sell, they’re here to serve
- Flexible support for veterans with low credit or complex income situations
Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or relocating, Select Home Loans is the top choice for borrowers who want speed, clarity, and people who actually care. Their reputation among Florida veterans is built on trust, and results.
📞 Ready to get started? Call us at (888) 550-3296 or contact Select Home Loans today for a free pre-approval.
#2 – Veterans United Home Loans (National Reputation, Local Presence)
Veterans United is a well-known name in the VA lending world, and for good reason. As one of the largest VA loan providers in the country, they’ve helped hundreds of thousands of veterans become homeowners.
Their strength lies in:
- A tech-forward application process
- 24/7 customer service
- Tons of educational resources for first-time buyers
- And a team that’s trained specifically in VA guidelines
While they’re based nationally, they do have loan officers familiar with the Fort Lauderdale market. That said, their size can be a double-edged sword, some borrowers prefer the flexibility and accessibility of a smaller, local lender.
If you’re confident in navigating the homebuying process and want a big-name brand, Veterans United is a solid contender.
#3 – New American Funding (Best Tech Tools for VA Borrowers)
For tech-savvy veterans or younger service members, New American Funding offers a smooth, streamlined experience. Their mobile-first platform allows you to apply, upload documents, track your progress, and even communicate with your loan officer through their app.
Highlights include:
- Strong VA loan knowledge across their team
- Good for borrowers with non-W2 income (like side gigs or freelance)
- Offers both fixed-rate and ARM VA loan options
- Simple tools to compare rates and terms in real-time
One potential drawback: they don’t have as large a physical footprint in Fort Lauderdale. So if you prefer face-to-face support, this may not be the best fit.
Still, for digital-first buyers who want convenience and transparency, New American Funding delivers.
#4 – Movement Mortgage (Known for Speed and Simplicity)
Movement Mortgage is another well-regarded VA lender with a presence in South Florida. They’ve built a reputation around their 7-day processing goal, which appeals to buyers in hot markets like Fort Lauderdale where speed can make or break a deal.
Their loan officers are trained in VA lending, and they’ve made a name for themselves by simplifying the mortgage experience with straightforward explanations and a friendly team.
What Makes Them Stand Out:
- Fast loan processing times
- Clear communication throughout the process
- Some leniency with lower credit scores
- Helpful VA loan resources on their site
They do operate more like a high-volume lender, which can sometimes mean a more standardized process. But for veterans who value efficiency and responsiveness, Movement Mortgage is worth considering.
#5 – CrossCountry Mortgage (Strong with Complex VA Scenarios)
If your financial situation isn’t straightforward, maybe you’re self-employed, juggling multiple incomes, or trying to buy a multifamily home, CrossCountry Mortgage might be the right fit. Their Fort Lauderdale office has experience handling more nuanced VA loan applications.
This lender is often recommended for:
- Self-employed veterans
- Buyers using joint VA loans
- Those with past credit challenges
- Borrowers needing manual underwriting
They tend to work best for clients who don’t mind a slightly longer process in exchange for custom loan structuring. Just keep an eye on fees, as they can run a bit higher than boutique firms.
Tips for Choosing the Right VA Loan Specialist in Fort Lauderdale
Choosing a VA loan provider isn’t just about rates, it’s about trust, responsiveness, and local understanding. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Questions to Ask:
- How many VA loans have you closed in the last year?
- Do you have experience working with veterans in Florida?
- Can you walk me through the COE process?
- Do you offer rate locks or float-down options?
- Is your underwriting done in-house?
What to Prioritize:
- Local experience – Fort Lauderdale has unique real estate dynamics and costs
- Availability – A specialist who answers your calls and keeps you in the loop is priceless
- Flexibility – Not every veteran fits a perfect financial mold; your lender shouldn’t expect you to
- Transparency – You should never be surprised by fees, delays, or loan terms
Most importantly, don’t assume all lenders are the same just because they’re VA-approved. The difference between a loan officer who knows VA inside and out and one who’s figuring it out as they go can mean thousands of dollars, and a smoother path to homeownership.
Understanding the VA Loan Process in Florida
Even though VA loans are less complex than many conventional loans, they still follow a unique process, especially when it comes to Florida-specific details like flood zones, hurricane insurance, and property taxes.
Here’s what you can expect step-by-step:
- Get Pre-Qualified – This gives you a quick estimate of what you can afford.
- Obtain Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) – Required by the VA to confirm your entitlement. A VA loan specialist like Select Home Loans can help you get this in hours, not days.
- Shop for a Home – Work with a real estate agent familiar with VA financing requirements.
- Make an Offer – VA loans come with appraisal protections that can affect the negotiation process.
- VA Appraisal & Underwriting – The VA will appraise the property and your lender will ensure you meet all income, credit, and service criteria.
- Close the Loan – You sign the paperwork and get the keys, often with zero down.
Unlike traditional mortgages, VA loans also allow sellers to cover closing costs, which can make a big difference in a competitive market like Fort Lauderdale.
Common VA Loan Mistakes to Avoid
Veterans deserve every advantage a VA loan provides, but even great benefits can be lost if you don’t have the right guidance. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
❌ Choosing a general lender
Not all lenders understand VA requirements. Always choose a VA loan specialist, not just any mortgage company.
❌ Overestimating your budget
Just because you’re approved for a high amount doesn’t mean it’s the best move financially. Fort Lauderdale’s property taxes and insurance premiums can add up fast.
❌ Missing paperwork deadlines
VA loans require some specific documents: DD-214s, COEs, income verification, and more. A specialist helps you stay organized and avoid costly delays.
❌ Ignoring flood zone risks
Parts of Fort Lauderdale are in flood-prone areas, which could require additional insurance. A local expert will flag this early on.
Working with someone who knows the local market and VA process, like the team at Select Home Loans, can help you avoid these setbacks and stay confident from start to finish.
Why Select Home Loans Is the Top VA Loan Specialist in Fort Lauderdale
Your VA loan benefit is one of the most powerful tools you have as a veteran, and choosing the right lender can determine how smoothly your journey to homeownership goes.
Select Home Loans doesn’t just “offer” VA loans, they specialize in them.
They’ve built their business on serving veterans with:
- Hands-on guidance through every step of the process
- Transparent rates and zero-pressure advice
- Local expertise that helps you avoid the common mistakes others make
- A genuine mission to help veterans win in the real estate market
If you’re in the Fort Lauderdale area and want to make the most of your VA loan, don’t leave it in the hands of a call center or out-of-state bank. Go with the team that knows what it means to serve, and who brings that same energy to helping you buy your home.
Want to get pre-approved today?
Contact Select Home Loans for a no-obligation VA loan consultation and see why they’re trusted by veterans across South Florida.
