Mortgage Guides, Tips & Market Insights
Real advice from real loan officers — written by the team that closes loans across VA, DC, MD & WV every week. No fluff, just answers.
Everything you need to know about buying your first home in the DMV — from credit preparation and pre-approval to state-specific down payment assistance programs most lenders don't mention. Start here.
Read the Full GuideOne of the most generous homebuyer programs in the nation — here's exactly who qualifies and how to apply.
Read Guide
Near the Pentagon, Fort Belvoir, or Quantico? VA loans offer 0% down and no PMI — here's how to use your benefit.
Read GuideMore articles below — browse all our guides, tips, and market updates

What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage in Virginia? (2026 Guide)
What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage in Virginia? (2026 Guide) By Ken Byrne, NMLS #187129 · ALCOVA Mortgage LLC, NMLS #40508 · Updated May 2026 Quick Answer: In Virginia, most lenders require a minimum credit score of 620 for a conventional loan, 580 for an FHA loan with 3.5% down (500–579
Read More

How Long Does Mortgage Approval Take in 2026? A DMV Buyer's Timeline
How Long Does Mortgage Approval Take in 2026? A DMV Buyer's Timeline By Ken Byrne, NMLS #187129 · ALCOVA Mortgage LLC, NMLS #40508 · Updated May 2026 Quick Answer: Most mortgage approvals in 2026 take 30 to 45 days from accepted offer to closing day. Initial pre-approval can be issued in 24–72 hou
Read More

Pre-Qualification vs Pre-Approval: What DMV Buyers Need to Know
Pre-Qualification vs Pre-Approval: What DMV Buyers Need to Know By Ken Byrne, NMLS #187129 · ALCOVA Mortgage LLC, NMLS #40508 · Updated May 2026 Quick Answer: Pre-qualification is a fast, informal estimate based on what you tell a lender — no documents pulled, no credit verified. Pre-approval is a
Read More

Closing Costs in West Virginia: What to Expect
Closing Costs in West Virginia: What to Expect By Ken Byrne, NMLS #187129 · ALCOVA Mortgage LLC, NMLS #40508 · Updated May 2026 Quick Answer: Buyers in West Virginia typically pay 2%–4% of the purchase price in closing costs, and sellers usually pay 1%–3% (excluding agent commissions). On a $300,0
Read More
Categories
Recent Posts










