VA Home Loan Guide for Veterans in Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth, part of the booming Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, combines an affordable housing market with a vibrant cultural scene—making it a top choice for Veterans. Its strong ties to military communities, growing economy, and access to veteran services ensure a supportive environment for homeownership.
Whether you’re relocating with PCS orders, retiring nearby, or working in one of the area’s many military-linked industries, your VA loan in Fort Worth can help you purchase a home with $0 down, no PMI, and more flexible credit requirements. Local lenders and agents are experienced in guiding Veterans through the VA process.
This guide outlines what Veterans need to know about using a VA loan in Fort Worth in 2025—covering market trends, loan limits, and support for military families.
In this Article
Fort Worth Housing Market Outlook for 2025
As of 2025, Fort Worth’s median listing home price sits at approximately $359,000. Recent median sold prices are near $332,000, reflecting steady year-over-year growth. Average home values generally range between $305,000 and $316,000 depending on the source and property type.
Fort Worth vs. Nearby Cities
| City | Median Home Price | Population |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Worth | $359,000 | ~1,000,000+ |
| Arlington | $340,000+ | ~400,000 |
| Dallas | $305,000 | ~1,300,000 |
| Plano | $368,000 | ~290,000 |
| Frisco | $671,000 | ~210,000 |
VA Loan Limits for Fort Worth in 2025
Fort Worth—located in Tarrant County—has a standard VA loan limit of $806,500 in 2025. Veterans with full entitlement can purchase homes up to this amount with no down payment. For homes above that limit, a small down payment is only required on the difference.
Why VA Loans Work Well in Fort Worth
- Zero Down: Most homes in Fort Worth are well within VA loan limits.
- No PMI: VA loans skip private mortgage insurance, reducing monthly costs.
- Competitive Rates: VA rates are often lower than those for conventional loans.
- Flexible Credit: Many VA lenders accept scores as low as 580.
- No Prepayment Penalties: You can pay off early with no extra fees.
VA Loan Requirements
VA loan requirements are designed to ensure that eligible veterans and service members can secure affordable, safe housing. Meeting these requirements involves fulfilling specific credit, income, property, and appraisal criteria tailored to protect both borrowers and lenders.
Service Requirements
To qualify for a VA loan, you must meet specific service requirements. These vary depending on your status:
Veterans:
- At least 90 consecutive days of active service during wartime.
- At least 181 days of active service during peacetime.
- Honorable discharge or discharge under honorable conditions is required.
Active-Duty Service Members:
- Currently serving with 90 days of continuous active duty.
National Guard and Reserves:
- At least six years of service or 90 days of active service under Title 10 or Title 32 orders.
Surviving Spouses:
- Unmarried spouses of service members who died in the line of duty or from a service-related disability.
- Some remarried spouses are eligible if the remarriage occurred after the age of 57.
Credit and Income
- To qualify for a VA loan, you must meet the lender’s credit and income standards.
- The VA generally prefers a debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of 41% or less.
- Exceptions may apply if your residual income exceeds VA requirements by 20% or if you have tax-free income.
Property Requirements
- The home must be your primary residence and should be a standard single-family property.
- Unique properties may not meet VA appraisal standards, as the VA prioritizes safe, secure housing.
Inspection and Appraisal
- A home inspection is recommended to check for major defects.
- A VA-approved appraiser will confirm the home meets the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) for safety and structural soundness.
Who Qualifies for a VA Loan?
VA loans are a unique benefit offered to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain other groups. The Department of Veterans Affairs has specific requirements based on time served, type of service, and discharge status. Here’s what you need to know about qualifying:
Service Requirements:
- At least 90 consecutive days of active duty during wartime.
- At least 181 days of active duty during peacetime.
- Six years in the National Guard or Reserves, or 90 days under Title 32 orders (with a minimum of 30 consecutive days served).
Veterans: Must have completed the required time in active duty and received a discharge other than dishonorable.
Active-Duty Service Members: Currently serving and have met the necessary active-duty requirements.
National Guard and Reserves: Those who have completed six years of service or served 90 days of active duty during wartime.
Surviving Spouses: Eligible if they are the spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty or from a service-related injury. Some remarried spouses may qualify if remarriage occurred after age 57.
VA Loan Eligibility Calculator
Comparison of VA Loans vs. Conventional Loans
| Feature | VA Loans | Conventional Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Down Payment | No down payment required | 5% – 20% |
| PMI | Not required | Required if down payment <20% |
| Interest Rates | Typically lower | Varies based on credit |
| Minimum Credit Score | None (Lenders prefer 620+) | 620+ |
| Funding Fee | Required (2.3% for first-time use) | None |
| Prepayment Penalty | None | May have penalties |
Top Veteran-Friendly Neighborhoods in Fort Worth
Fort Worth has many Veteran-preferred communities offering access to quality schools, amenities, and VA-friendly lenders. Here are some of the top neighborhoods for military families and Veterans:
Alliance Corridor
- Description: Fast-growing area with new construction, employment centers, and proximity to military contractors.
- Median Home Price: $350,000
Fairmount Historic District
- Description: Centrally located, walkable neighborhood with vintage homes, ideal for VA renovation loans.
- Median Home Price: $325,000
Keller ISD Zone (North Fort Worth)
- Description: Family-focused suburbs with top-rated schools and VA-compliant builders in nearby communities like Haslet and Saginaw.
- Median Home Price: $385,000
Walsh Ranch
- Description: A master-planned luxury community west of downtown, offering new homes and outdoor amenities with VA lender access.
- Median Home Price: $500,000
Fort Worth Veteran Housing & Career Assistance
Housing Support Programs
- Texas Veterans Land Board (TVLB): State-run program offering low-interest home and land loans for Veterans statewide.
Texas VLB Website | (800) 252-8387 - City of Fort Worth Housing & Community Development: Local assistance for affordable housing and down payment support.
Fort Worth Housing Department | (817) 392-7540 - Housing Channel (formerly TCHP): Offers Veteran-specific homebuyer education, DPA, and foreclosure prevention.
Housing Channel | (817) 924-5091
Employment Resources for Veterans
- Texas Veterans Commission Employment Services: Offers job coaching, resume help, and job placement.
TVC Employment Portal | (512) 463-6564 - Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County: Local job matching, training, and support programs for Vets and transitioning military.
Tarrant Workforce Solutions | (817) 413-4000
Explore Nearby VA Loan Guides
Interested in buying nearby? Check out VA loan programs in these surrounding cities:
Frequently Asked Questions: VA Loans in Fort Worth
What is the VA loan limit in Fort Worth for 2025?
- The VA loan limit for Tarrant County is $806,500 for Veterans with full entitlement.
Can I buy a condo in Fort Worth with a VA loan?
- Yes—condos must be on the VA-approved list to qualify for financing.
Are new-construction homes eligible?
- Yes—VA loans can finance new builds when the builder is VA-approved.
Do I need a minimum credit score?
- No set minimum from the VA; lenders usually look for 620+.
Can I reuse my VA loan benefit?
- Yes, as long as entitlement has been restored or unused.
Can a non-Veteran co-borrower be included?
- Yes—though the VA only guarantees the Veteran’s portion; the non-Veteran may need a down payment.
How is the VA funding fee calculated?
- Funding fees range from ~2.3 % to 3.6 %, and may be waived for disabled Veterans.
Can I refinance in Fort Worth?
- Yes—eligible Veterans can use the IRRRL or cash-out refinance options.
Do local grants cover closing costs?
- Some local programs may help, but closing costs typically remain the Veteran’s responsibility.
How long does it take to close a VA loan?
- Most Fort Worth VA loan closings take 30–45 days when handled by experienced professionals.
