Michigan
Welcome to Michigan
Michigan, the Great Lakes State, offers breathtaking natural beauty, thriving cities, and a rich industrial heritage. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the urban hubs of Detroit and Grand Rapids, the state presents diverse landscapes and opportunities. Known for its automotive industry, Michigan stands as a cornerstone of American innovation and manufacturing. Veterans and their families can find a welcoming community with benefits designed to honor their service and support their civilian lives. Let Military Home Spot Lending guide you to your next home in this remarkable state.
Major Michigan Cities
Michigan’s largest cities, from bustling urban centers to tranquil lakeside towns, each contribute to the state’s economic vitality and cultural diversity. This section highlights the state's most dynamic urban areas, reflecting their unique offerings and vibrant communities.
Quick Links To Other City Pages
Veteran Benefits in Michigan
Michigan extends a broad array of benefits to its veterans, ensuring their dedication and service are met with substantial support. From housing and tax exemptions to employment and educational assistance, Michigan continues to invest in programs that enhance veterans' lives.
-
Michigan State Veterans Homes
Michigan offers three veterans homes in Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, and Marquette. These homes provide long-term care and services to eligible veterans, with provisions for spouses and surviving spouses. Fees are determined based on income and need.
-
Property Tax Waiver
Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to service-connected reasons are entitled to a property tax exemption on their primary residence. Unremarried surviving spouses and spouses of fallen service members may also benefit.
-
Income Tax Benefits
Active-duty and retired military personnel enjoy tax exemptions on military pay, pensions, and SBP payments. Michigan also offers specific pension exclusions to seniors and disabled veterans.
-
Vehicle Registration
Disabled veterans with a 100% permanent and total disability rating may qualify for a fee waiver on one vehicle registration with a disabled veteran plate.
-
Emergency Assistance
Veterans facing temporary financial hardship can access emergency funds to cover essential expenses such as utility bills, home repairs, or medical costs.
-
State Employment Veterans Preference
Michigan grants employment preferences to veterans applying for state jobs by awarding additional points during the hiring process. This extends to certain family members.
-
Education Benefits
The Michigan Children of Veterans Tuition Grant assists the dependents of deceased or disabled veterans by covering tuition fees at state-supported schools.
-
Recreation Benefits
Michigan veterans receive free or discounted access to state parks, hunting and fishing licenses, and other recreational benefits. These incentives encourage veterans to enjoy Michigan’s great outdoors.
-
Veterans' Burial Expenses
Michigan offers burial assistance for veterans and their families, covering burial costs and ensuring dignified services to honor their legacy.
Michigan's Military Presence
Michigan holds a vital role in supporting the United States Armed Forces, with numerous military installations scattered across the state. These facilities provide essential training, logistics, and operational support, contributing to national defense and security. Michigan’s strategic location, extensive infrastructure, and historical contributions to military innovation make it a key player in the nation’s defense network.
- Selfridge Air National Guard Base: Located near Detroit, this joint military community supports air operations and houses multiple service branches, playing a critical role in national defense.
- Camp Grayling: The largest National Guard training center in the U.S., Camp Grayling hosts large-scale exercises and offers extensive training grounds for active-duty and reserve forces.
- Fort Custer Training Center: Situated near Battle Creek, Fort Custer provides premier training for National Guard and reserve units, encompassing advanced facilities and a comprehensive range of training environments.
- Battle Creek VA Medical Center: Serving as a vital healthcare hub, this VA medical center supports veterans with a wide range of medical and psychological services.
- Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center: Alpena's facility plays a pivotal role in air combat training for various branches, supporting large-scale joint exercises.
- Detroit Arsenal: A key location for Army operations and research, Detroit Arsenal is instrumental in vehicle production, development, and maintenance for the U.S. military.
VA Loans in Michigan
VA Home Loan Volume in 2024 in Michigan*
Total Loans |
7,838 |
Average Loan Amount |
$274,758 |
Total Loan Amount (ALL) |
$2,153,554,861 |
Total Purchase Loans |
4,911 |
Total Purchase Loans % |
62.66% |
Total IRRRL Loans |
1,172 |
Total IRRRL Loans % |
14.95% |
Total Cash-Out Loans |
1,755 |
Total Cash-Out Loans % |
22.39% |
*Data pulled from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Michigan VA Loan Requirements
VA loan requirements in Michigan follow national guidelines, ensuring that veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible spouses can access home financing benefits. Eligibility is determined by service time, discharge status, and duty history.
To qualify for a VA loan, you generally 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 service member who died in the line of duty or due to a service-related disability
Michigan VA Loan Limits
VA loan limits in Michigan are set in accordance with VA guidelines. For most counties, the loan limit in 2024 is $766,550 for a single-family home. High-cost counties may have higher loan limits.
Veterans with full entitlement are not subject to loan limits and can borrow as much as a lender approves without requiring a down payment. For veterans with remaining entitlement, county loan limits apply.
VA Loan Entitlement in Michigan
VA loan entitlement is the amount the VA guarantees to a lender in case of borrower default. This ensures lenders are protected, encouraging favorable loan terms for veterans. In Michigan, entitlement can be categorized as:
- Full Entitlement: No county loan limit applies, and veterans can borrow without a down payment.
- Remaining Entitlement: Veterans with remaining entitlement may face loan limits and may need to make a down payment if exceeding those limits.
VA Loan Rates in Michigan
VA loan rates in Michigan are typically lower than those of conventional loans, thanks to the backing provided by the VA. Rates are influenced by factors such as credit score, market conditions, and loan terms.
VA loans offer competitive interest rates, reducing monthly mortgage costs and providing long-term savings for eligible borrowers.
Types of VA Mortgage Programs in Michigan
- VA Purchase Loan: Enables veterans to buy a home without a down payment or private mortgage insurance.
- VA Cash-Out Refinance: Allows veterans to refinance their existing mortgage to access cash from their home’s equity.
- VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL): Also known as a VA Streamline Refinance, this program helps veterans reduce their mortgage rates and payments with minimal documentation.
How to Get a VA Loan in Michigan
Getting a VA loan in Michigan involves a straightforward process:
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Obtain your COE through the VA portal or with lender assistance.
- Choose a Lender: Work with a VA-approved lender to start the application process.
- Find a Home: Select a property that meets VA appraisal requirements.
- Appraisal and Approval: The VA will appraise the home to ensure it meets market value and condition standards.
- Close on the Loan: Finalize the process and move into your new home.
By following these steps, veterans in Michigan can take advantage of the many benefits provided by VA loans.
Real Estate in Michigan
Michigan's real estate market is diverse, offering opportunities ranging from lakeside retreats along the Great Lakes to vibrant urban homes in cities like Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor. The state's rich industrial history and ongoing revitalization efforts make it an attractive destination for homebuyers and investors alike. Michigan’s blend of rural charm, affordable housing, and expanding job markets continues to draw attention.
The state’s property market benefits from veteran-focused incentives such as property tax exemptions and home loan support, ensuring that veterans and their families find accessible and affordable housing options. Whether you're searching for a suburban family home or a quiet lakeside escape, Michigan provides numerous real estate possibilities suited to various lifestyles and needs.
Median Sale Price of Homes in Michigan*
Detroit |
$97,750 |
Grand Rapids |
$290,000 |
Warren |
$205,000 |
Sterling Heights |
$312,000 |
Ann Arbor |
$440,000 |
Lansing |
$142,300 |
Flint |
$56,000 |
Michigan Statewide Average |
$262,400 |
---|
*Data sourced from Redfin (January 2025)
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 option designed for veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses. The VA provides guidelines for eligibility, ensuring that those who served honorably can access affordable home financing. Click here to verify your eligibility.
Getting started is simple. You need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and a VA-approved lender. Our team can assist you every step of the way. Apply here.
VA Loans offer no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and competitive interest rates. This makes them a cost-effective and attractive option for veterans. Learn more.
Yes, VA Loans are more forgiving with credit requirements than conventional loans. Even with less-than-perfect credit, you may qualify. Read more here.
Some VA Loans include a funding fee, which helps sustain the VA program. However, certain veterans may qualify for exemptions. Explore the details.
VA Loans can be used to purchase a primary residence, refinance an existing mortgage, or renovate your home. They cannot be used for vacation or investment properties. Learn more.
Loan limits depend on your entitlement and location. Most veterans with full entitlement can borrow without a limit, but remaining entitlement may subject you to county loan limits. Check limits here.