Arizona
Branches located in Arizona
Welcome to Arizona
The Grand Canyon State, known for its stunning desert landscapes, iconic red rock formations, and vibrant cultural heritage. Arizona offers a unique blend of natural beauty and bustling cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff. From the majestic Grand Canyon to the lush forests of Northern Arizona, the state is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Arizona's economy thrives on aerospace, manufacturing, and technology industries, while its warm climate and picturesque surroundings make it an attractive destination for retirees and military families alike. Whether you're exploring Sedona’s scenic views or immersing yourself in the rich Native American history, Arizona provides a dynamic lifestyle. At Military Home Spot Lending, we’re here to help veterans and service members find the perfect home in this remarkable state.
Major Arizona Cities
Arizona's biggest cities each offer something special, from Phoenix's thriving metropolitan life to Tucson’s historic charm. Flagstaff’s cool mountain air contrasts with Yuma’s desert climate, showcasing the state's diverse geography. This section highlights the unique qualities of Arizona’s urban centers, providing insight into what makes each city an exceptional place to live and work.
Quick Links To Other City Pages
Veteran Benefits in Arizona
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Arizona State Veterans Home
The state of Arizona has four veterans homes, including skilled nursing facilities in Flagstaff, Phoenix, Tucson, and Yuma. These homes provide essential care and support for honorably discharged veterans who require skilled nursing care, and they also admit spouses.
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Arizona Veteran Financial Benefits
Arizona offers various financial benefits to veterans, including: - Active-duty pay is tax-free. - Military retirement pay and benefits, including Survivor Benefit Plan payments, are tax-free. - The Arizona Military Family Relief Fund provides financial assistance for military and veteran families facing hardships due to their service. Applicants can receive emergency assistance of up to $3,000, with a lifetime limit of $20,000. - No license tax or registration fee for a personally owned vehicle is collected from any 100% service-connected disabled veteran. A veteran residing in Arizona is exempt from vehicle license tax on a vehicle acquired through financial aid from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This exemption also applies to the surviving spouse until they remarry. - Disabled veterans and their survivors may be eligible for property tax waivers in certain cases. Contact your County Assessor's office for eligibility. - The Tuition Waiver program provides eligible veterans or surviving dependents tuition-free education up to a bachelor’s degree at any Arizona public state university or community college. Eligibility includes un-remarried spouses or dependent children of an active-duty or Arizona National Guard member killed in the line of duty, current members of the Arizona National Guard with a Purple Heart received after Sep. 11, 2001, veterans of the Arizona National Guard medically discharged due to duty-related injury or disability, and veterans with a Purple Heart who were Arizona residents or stationed in Arizona at the time of the injury and have a VA disability rating of 50% or more.
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Arizona Veteran Employment Benefits
Arizona provides employment benefits to veterans, including: - Veterans who pass an examination for state, county, or city employment will have 5 points added to their certification score. The veteran must have served for more than six months with an honorable discharge. - Honorably discharged veterans receiving VA disability compensation will have 10 points added to their certification score. - Certain spouses or surviving spouses will receive a 5-point preference if the veteran died of a service-connected disability. - The Veteran Toolkit Program assists unemployed veterans by providing them with the supplies they need to start working, ranging from boots and tools to bicycles. Qualifying veterans must live in Arizona, be enrolled in an Arizona Job Connection with Arizona@Work, and identify the job they need supplies for.
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Arizona CDL Skills Test Waiver
Eligible military personnel or veterans may have the Commercial Driver License (CDL) skills tests waived when applying for a CDL if they are on active duty or within one year of discharge and have operated a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) or equivalent for at least two years immediately before discharge.
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Arizona Real Estate Licensing
The Arizona Department of Real Estate offers reduced licensing requirements for military spouses.
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Arizona Veteran Recreation Benefits
Arizona provides recreational benefits to veterans, including: - Active-duty members stationed in Arizona can get hunting and fishing licenses at the resident rate. - Free hunting/fishing combo licenses are available for 100% service-connected disabled veterans who have been Arizona residents for at least 12 months. Those with less than 100% disability receive a discounted license. - Arizona offers discounts to its state parks, including a 50% day-use discount to all active-duty, Guard and Reserve military members and up to three accompanying adult family members, a 50% day-use discount to all resident military retirees, a 50% off day-use pass to all disabled military, and a free day-use pass to all resident 100% service-connected disabled veterans.
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Arizona Veteran Cemeteries
The state of Arizona has three veterans cemeteries located in Camp Navajo, Marana, and Sierra Vista. Any veteran with an other-than-dishonorable discharge is eligible for burial. Spouses and certain dependents are also eligible for burial. Veterans receive interment at no charge, while eligible spouses and dependents incur a one-time nominal fee. Visit the Arizona Department of Veterans Affairs website for more information about these programs.
Arizona's Military Presence
Arizona plays a pivotal role in national defense, with a variety of military installations spread across the state. These bases support aviation training, technology development, and operational readiness, reflecting Arizona’s commitment to military excellence and strategic importance.
- Luke Air Force Base: Located near Phoenix, this base is a critical training site for F-35 Lightning II pilots and hosts the largest fighter wing in the Air Force.
- Davis-Monthan Air Force Base: Situated in Tucson, this base is home to the A-10 Thunderbolt II and serves as a key site for aircraft storage and maintenance.
- Fort Huachuca: A U.S. Army installation in Sierra Vista known for military intelligence training and electronic testing.
- Yuma Proving Ground: One of the largest military installations globally, Yuma Proving Ground conducts testing for artillery, weapons, and ground equipment.
- Marine Corps Air Station Yuma: This base provides training facilities for aviation units, particularly focusing on F-35B operations.
- Camp Navajo: A National Guard training facility that also serves as a munitions storage depot.
- Papago Park Military Reservation: Located in Phoenix, it serves as the headquarters for the Arizona National Guard.
VA Loans in Arizona
VA Home Loan Volume in 2024 in Arizona*
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Total Loans |
12,941 |
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Average Loan Amount |
$404,195 |
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Total Loan Amount (ALL) |
$5,230,681,773 |
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Total Purchase Loans |
8,887 |
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Total Purchase Loans % |
68.67% |
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Total IRRRL Loans |
1,705 |
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Total IRRRL Loans % |
13.18% |
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Total Cash-Out Loans |
2,349 |
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Total Cash-Out Loans % |
18.15% |
*Data pulled from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Arizona VA Loan Requirements
VA loan requirements in Arizona align with federal guidelines, with specific eligibility criteria related to service time and general loan conditions. Veterans and active-duty service members can access favorable terms through the VA loan program, which ensures home financing with competitive rates.
To qualify for a VA loan in Arizona, you typically need to meet one of the following service requirements:
- 90 days of active service during wartime
- 181 continuous days of active service during peacetime
- 6 or more years of service in the National Guard or Reserves
- Unremarried surviving spouse of a servicemember who died in the line of duty or due to a service-related disability
In addition to these service requirements, VA loans in Arizona have other conditions, including:
- Funding Fee: A one-time fee that supports the VA loan program. This varies based on down payment amount, military category, and whether it's the borrower's first or subsequent VA loan. Some veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for exemptions.
- Occupancy Requirement: Borrowers must occupy the home as their primary residence within 60 days of closing, with certain exceptions allowed for extenuating circumstances.
- Primary Residence Use: VA loans are exclusively for financing primary residences, not investment properties or vacation homes.
Arizona does not have unique property requirements like some states, but individual lenders may impose additional qualification criteria. Always consult with your Loan Officer for personalized guidance.
Arizona VA Loan Limits
VA loan limits in Arizona generally align with the national standard. For 2023, the standard VA loan limit is $766,550. However, limits may vary by county based on local housing markets.
Veterans with full entitlement can borrow beyond these limits without requiring a down payment. For those who have used entitlement previously, loan limits determine the maximum borrowing amount before a down payment is necessary.
VA Loan Entitlement in Arizona
VA loan entitlement determines the portion of the loan the VA will guarantee. There are two forms of entitlement:
- Full Entitlement: Veterans with full entitlement can borrow up to 25% of the loan amount without a down payment. This reduces lender risk and secures favorable loan terms.
- Remaining Entitlement: Veterans who have already used some entitlement can still borrow up to 25% of the remaining county loan limit, though a down payment may be necessary.
Entitlement can be reused, offering lifetime benefits to veterans. Speak with your Loan Officer to better understand how this can impact your borrowing capacity.
VA Loan Rates in Arizona
Mortgage rates for VA loans fluctuate based on market conditions and borrower characteristics, such as credit score. However, VA loans typically offer lower interest rates than conventional loans, thanks to the VA’s backing.
Types of VA Mortgage Programs in Arizona
- VA Purchase Loan: Available in fixed and adjustable rate options, this loan is ideal for veterans seeking primary residences with no down payment.
- VA Cash-Out Refinance Loan: Allows veterans to refinance their home’s value (up to 100%) to access cash, even from non-VA loans.
- VA Streamline Refinance Loan (IRRRL): A simplified refinance program offering reduced rates and minimal paperwork for current VA loan holders.
How to Get a VA Loan in Arizona
To apply for a VA loan in Arizona, follow these steps:
- Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE): This document confirms eligibility for a VA loan. A Loan Officer can assist in obtaining the COE.
- Choose the Right Loan: Collaborate with your Loan Officer to select the VA loan option that best fits your needs.
- Find a Home: Real estate agents working with your lender can help find suitable homes and negotiate purchase terms.
- Home Appraisal: The VA requires a home appraisal by an approved appraiser to ensure the property meets VA standards.
- Loan Approval and Closing: If your lender is VA-authorized, they can approve and close your loan without needing further VA review.
By completing these steps, you’ll be ready to secure your Arizona home through the VA loan program.
Real Estate in Arizona
Arizona's real estate market is diverse and growing rapidly, driven by economic expansion, a warm climate, and affordable living compared to neighboring states like California. From the bustling metropolitan areas of Phoenix and Tucson to the serene desert landscapes in Sedona, Arizona offers a variety of housing options that appeal to families, retirees, and young professionals. The combination of no state tax on military retirement pay and veteran property tax exemptions makes Arizona an attractive destination for veterans seeking homeownership.
Arizona continues to experience population growth, fueling demand in the housing market. This growth has led to rising home prices, but the state remains a more affordable option compared to many coastal states. Cities such as Scottsdale and Mesa offer upscale housing and vibrant communities, while areas like Chandler and Gilbert attract families with excellent schools and safe neighborhoods.
Median Sale Price of Homes in Arizona*
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Phoenix |
$450,000 |
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Glendale |
$419,450 |
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Sun City |
$265,000 |
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Lake Havasu City |
$494,250 |
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Anthem |
$593,000 |
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Yuma |
$335,950 |
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Snowflake |
$375,000 |
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Maricopa (85138) |
$363,000 |
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Tucson (Pima County) |
$370,000 |
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Mesa (Maricopa County) |
$478,000 |
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Arizona Statewide Average |
$447,500 |
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*Data sourced from Redfin (November 2024)
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Military Home Spot Lending and our services. Can't find what your need? Get in touch with us.
A VA Loan is a mortgage available to veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses. This loan offers benefits such as no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and competitive interest rates. To find out if you qualify, click here.
Starting your VA Loan is simple. First, obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Then, connect with a VA-approved lender, like us. Our team can guide you through the entire process. Get started here.
VA Loans come with no down payment, no PMI, and generally lower interest rates. They’re more forgiving with credit scores, making homeownership more accessible for veterans. Learn more here.
Absolutely! We have a dedicated branch in Phoenix, AZ, ready to assist you. Whether you're in Phoenix or elsewhere in Arizona, our VA Loan specialists can help. Connect with our Phoenix team here.
VA Loans typically come with a one-time funding fee, but this can often be rolled into the loan amount. Some veterans may qualify for fee exemptions. To understand the costs, read more here.
Loan limits in Arizona vary by county, with the standard VA loan limit set at $766,550 for 2023. In some areas, loan limits may be higher. To learn more, check out this guide.
VA Loans are more flexible with credit requirements, allowing veterans with lower credit scores to qualify. If your credit isn't perfect, we can still help. Find out more here.