As a Real estate pro, I welcome the opportunity to play a role in helping military members and veterans achieve homeownership. Many service members know little about the benefits of VA mortgages or may even hold negative views about them, according to a Spotlight on VA Loans report, commissioned by Navy Federal Credit Union and Operation Homefront. The survey was based on responses from about 1,000 active-duty service members and veterans nationwide.

Nearly half of active-duty respondents believe VA loans have higher interest rates than conventional loans—which they don’t, the survey notes. Seventeen percent of veterans and 45% of active-duty soldiers believe a down payment of more than 20% is necessary for a VA loan. In reality, VA loans offer vets and military service members a chance to buy with 0% down.

The VA Home Loan Guaranty Program has helped some 25 million veterans purchase and maintain homes since it was launched during World War II. The National Association of REALTORS® has worked from its position as America’s largest trade association to help ensure the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program remains an accessible resource for veterans looking to purchase a home, as a benefit for their service.

To honor their immense sacrifices, it’s important to look for ways to better recognize and repay the men and women who have survived the horrors of combat, and returned home to live out the ideals they risked everything to protect.  Because when they do return, access to a safe, comfortable home should never be in question