Loan Comparison
Veterans with strong credit and a 20% down payment sometimes assume conventional is the smarter play. Sometimes it is — but skipping the VA benefit without running the numbers can cost real money. Here’s how the two compare for eligible borrowers.
| VA Loan | Conventional Loan | |
|---|---|---|
| Down payment | $0 down | 3–20% down |
| Mortgage insurance | None | PMI under 20% down |
| One-time fee | VA funding fee (waived with disability rating) | None |
| Interest rates | Typically among the lowest available | Competitive, credit-score driven |
| Occupancy | Primary residence only | Primary, second home, or investment |
| Reusability | Entitlement reusable for life | Unlimited |
With less than 20% down, the VA loan usually wins outright — zero down and no PMI is unbeatable. With 20%+ down and an above-average rate quote, conventional can edge ahead since it avoids the funding fee. Buying a second home or rental? Conventional is your tool, since VA requires owner occupancy.
Still Deciding?
We'll price both programs with your actual numbers and show you the payment, cash to close, and long-term cost side by side — no credit pull required.
Questions
Three common reasons: buying an investment property or second home (VA requires owner occupancy), preserving VA entitlement for a future purchase, or putting 20%+ down where the funding fee outweighs VA’s rate advantage.
That reputation is outdated. VA appraisals and timelines now match conventional closely. A strong pre-approval letter from a lender experienced with VA loans — like ours — puts VA offers on equal footing.
Yes. Many veterans keep a VA loan on their residence and use conventional or DSCR financing for rentals. We’ll structure it so your entitlement stays protected.
About Us
CDL Mortgage Services Inc. is an independent, full-service mortgage company. Instead of pushing one bank’s products, we shop multiple wholesale lenders to secure the best loan at the best rate for every borrower.
Purchase, refinance, and home equity — all under one roof, focused on the best loans at the best rates.
Based at 6524 Lonetree Blvd, Rocklin, CA 95765 and licensed in California, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Oklahoma & Idaho.
Every file is handled start-to-finish by a licensed loan officer who knows your name and your goals.
Fully licensed and regulated, with award-winning lender partnerships and 35+ years serving borrowers.
Ready When You Are
One application, multiple wholesale lenders, and a licensed loan officer who explains the tradeoffs before you commit.