Supporting Those Who Serve

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) is proud to support veterans and active servicemembers in achieving the American Dream of homeownership. Veterans often face unique circumstances when purchasing a home, and recent updates to real estate practices are designed to help ensure their needs are met. Here’s what you need to know:

Can Veterans Pay for Real Estate Representation Using a VA Home Loan?

Yes! As of August 10, 2024, the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) has implemented a temporary policy that allows buyers using VA home loans to pay for professional real estate representation. This is a significant change that NAR strongly advocated for, aiming to give veterans better access to professional guidance when buying a home.

Why Is This Policy Temporary?

The VA will evaluate whether this change should become permanent. NAR continues to advocate for making this policy permanent, actively engaging with lawmakers and the VA while highlighting how this policy benefits veterans.

Why Are Veterans Being Asked to Sign a Written Agreement?

Written buyer agreements outline the services your real estate professional will provide and how they will be compensated. These agreements are now required for many real estate professionals nationwide. These agreements are fully negotiable, giving you control over the terms. Avoid signing any agreement with terms you don’t understand or agree with. NAR has created dedicated resources to help you understand these agreements.

How Does a Buyer’s Agent Get Paid?

Your written buyer agreement will detail how your agent is paid. Potential options include:
• The seller or their listing broker offering compensation to the buyer’s agent.
• The buyer negotiating for the seller to cover the buyer agent’s fee as part of the purchase offer.
• The buyer directly compensating their agent out of pocket.

NAR's Commitment to Veteran Homeownership

NAR has long supported the VA Home Loan Guaranty program, which has helped more than 24 million veterans secure home loans. NAR continues to advocate for policies that make homeownership easier and more affordable for veterans. This includes:

• Encouraging flexible and competitive loan products.
• Working with the VA and Congress to improve VA appraisal requirements.
• Advocating for descendants of eligible veterans to access unused VA home loan benefits.
• Supporting the ability for veterans to sell their home with an assumable mortgage, allowing the buyer to take over the seller's lower interest rate.

Why Choose a REALTOR®?

REALTORS® follow NAR’s strict Code of Ethics, ensuring they act in your best interest. Many REALTORS® also obtain NAR's Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification, which specifically prepares them to assist veterans and active-duty servicemembers.

Additional Resources
Buying a home can be complex, and local and state laws may vary. For personalized guidance, consult with a knowledgeable REALTOR® or attorney. Visit facts.realtor for additional resources and information designed to help veterans achieve their homeownership goals.

Download NAR Guide