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North Dakota

Welcome to North Dakota

North Dakota, known for its expansive plains and strong community values, is a place where tradition meets opportunity. With a rich history of agriculture, energy production, and manufacturing, the state continues to grow and diversify. Veterans and military families find North Dakota to be a welcoming environment with supportive services and a high quality of life. Whether you're drawn to the rolling Badlands or the vibrant cities of Fargo and Bismarck, North Dakota offers a unique balance of tranquility and progress.

At Military Home Spot Lending, we are dedicated to assisting veterans and their families in making North Dakota their home. Our team is here to guide you through the VA Loan process, ensuring you can take full advantage of the benefits available to you.

Major Cities in North Dakota

North Dakota’s key cities are hubs of culture, economy, and education, each contributing to the state's overall development and community strength. From Fargo's thriving economy and university presence to Bismarck's status as the capital city, these urban centers play a crucial role in North Dakota's identity.

Veteran Benefits in North Dakota

North Dakota is proud to honor its veterans by offering a range of benefits that support their financial stability, education, and overall quality of life. These benefits are designed to ease the transition into civilian life and provide ongoing assistance to veterans and their families.

  • North Dakota Veterans Home
    North Dakota operates a state veterans home in Lisbon, providing long-term care and rehabilitation services for honorably discharged veterans and their spouses. The home offers high-quality care tailored to meet the needs of veterans.
  • North Dakota Veteran Financial Benefits
    Income Taxes: Active-duty military pay is tax-free starting in 2023, with military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments also exempt from state income tax.
    Veterans Aid Fund: Veterans and their spouses can apply for loans up to $5,000 for emergency situations and daily needs.
    Hardship Grant: This grant covers emergency expenses like dental work, hearing aids, and transportation to medical facilities for veterans, their spouses, and un-remarried surviving spouses.
    PTSD Grant: Veterans with PTSD may qualify for financial assistance to obtain a service dog, helping them manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
    Property Tax Deduction: Veterans with at least a 50% VA disability rating are eligible for property tax deductions, with un-remarried spouses also qualifying for similar benefits.
  • North Dakota Veterans Preference
    Veterans receive hiring preference for state jobs, with a 5-point advantage for veterans and a 10-point advantage for disabled veterans.
  • North Dakota Education Benefits
    Veterans Educational Training (VET): A free program providing educational preparation for veterans pursuing certification or degrees.
    Dependent Tuition Waiver: Dependents of veterans who were killed or disabled during service can receive free tuition at North Dakota state schools.
    National Guard Tuition Waiver: Members of the North Dakota National Guard can receive up to 35% off tuition at state colleges and universities.
  • North Dakota Veteran Recreation Benefits
    Veterans with service-connected disabilities can receive discounted or free annual passes to state parks and recreation areas.
    Hunting and Fishing Licenses: 100% disabled veterans receive licenses at significantly reduced rates. Active-duty members on leave can hunt and fish without a license.
  • North Dakota Veterans Cemetery
    The North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan offers burial services to veterans and their spouses at no cost to the veteran, with a small fee for dependents.
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North Dakota's Military Presence

North Dakota plays a vital role in national defense through its key military installations, providing strategic support and enhancing readiness. These bases contribute to local economies, provide jobs, and offer crucial services for active-duty members, veterans, and their families. The state hosts several important military facilities.

  • Minot Air Force Base: Located in Minot, this base is home to the 5th Bomb Wing and the 91st Missile Wing, crucial for global strike and deterrence missions. Minot AFB plays a strategic role in national security and defense operations.
  • Grand Forks Air Force Base: This base hosts the 319th Reconnaissance Wing and is a hub for unmanned aerial surveillance operations, supporting intelligence and reconnaissance missions.
  • North Dakota Army National Guard: Headquartered in Bismarck, the North Dakota National Guard plays a key role in both domestic emergency response and overseas deployments, supporting national defense initiatives.
  • Camp Grafton Training Center: Located near Devils Lake, Camp Grafton provides essential training facilities for the North Dakota National Guard, focusing on readiness and response for various military operations.

VA Loans in North Dakota

VA Home Loan Volume in 2024 in North Dakota*

Total Loans

1,053

Average Loan Amount

$289,777

Total Loan Amount (ALL)

$305,134,797

Total Purchase Loans

874

Total Purchase Loans %

83.00%

Total IRRRL Loans

88

Total IRRRL Loans %

8.36%

Total Cash-Out Loans

91

Total Cash-Out Loans %

8.64%

*Data pulled from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

North Dakota VA Loan Requirements

VA loan requirements in North Dakota align with federal standards, focusing on service time, discharge status, and residency. Veterans and active-duty personnel can access home loans with favorable terms, including no down payment and competitive interest rates.

To qualify for a VA loan in North Dakota, 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

Additional conditions include:

  • Funding Fee: A one-time fee to support the VA loan program, which varies based on down payment and military category. Exemptions are available for certain veterans.
  • Occupancy Requirement: Veterans must occupy the property within 60 days of closing.
  • Primary Residence Use: VA loans can only be used for primary residences.

North Dakota VA Loan Limits

North Dakota VA loan limits follow national standards, with most counties adhering to the baseline limit of $766,550 for a single-family home. Veterans with full entitlement are not subject to loan limits and can borrow as much as their lender allows, with no down payment.

VA Loan Entitlement in North Dakota

VA loan entitlement determines how much the VA guarantees to lenders. Veterans with full entitlement can borrow up to 25% of the loan amount. Remaining entitlement applies if a portion of the entitlement is already in use.

VA Loan Rates in North Dakota

VA loan rates in North Dakota fluctuate based on economic factors and borrower qualifications. VA loans often offer lower interest rates than conventional loans, benefiting veterans with favorable financing terms.

Types of VA Mortgage Programs in North Dakota

  • VA Purchase Loan: For buying a primary residence with no down payment.
  • VA Cash-Out Refinance Loan: Allows refinancing and accessing home equity for various needs.
  • VA Streamline Refinance Loan (IRRRL): A simplified refinance process that may lower rates and payments.

How to Get a VA Loan in North Dakota

Follow these steps to secure a VA loan:

  1. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE): This verifies your eligibility for a VA loan.
  2. Choose the Right Loan Type: Select the best VA loan option for your needs.
  3. Find a Home: Work with an agent to find a suitable property.
  4. Home Appraisal: The VA will appraise the home to ensure it meets minimum standards.
  5. Loan Approval: Your lender will process and close the loan.

Real Estate in North Dakota

North Dakota’s real estate market offers a diverse range of options, from affordable suburban neighborhoods to rural properties with expansive land. The state’s growing economy, driven by energy, agriculture, and manufacturing, contributes to steady housing demand. Cities like Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks continue to see population growth, fueling the housing market while maintaining a lower cost of living compared to national averages.

Veterans looking to settle in North Dakota benefit from the state's VA home loan programs, tax incentives, and financial aid programs that make homeownership more accessible and affordable. The combination of strong veteran support services and stable real estate values makes North Dakota an attractive destination for military families and veterans.

Median Sale Price of Homes in North Dakota*

Fargo

$320,000

Bismarck

$347,500

Grand Forks

$256,000

Minot

$257,000

West Fargo

$372,000

Williston

$303,900

Dickinson

$349,950

North Dakota Statewide Average

$338,435

*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.

What is a VA Loan and who can qualify?

A VA Loan is a mortgage specifically for veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses. It offers benefits like no down payment and lower interest rates. Eligibility is based on service time, discharge status, and other factors. Learn more here.

How do I apply for a VA Loan in North Dakota?

Start by obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Work with a VA-approved lender to guide you through the loan process. Get started here.

What makes VA Loans different from regular loans?

VA Loans offer no down payment, no PMI, and favorable terms, making homeownership more affordable for veterans. Discover the benefits.

Can MHSLending assist with VA Loans in North Dakota?

Absolutely! Our team can help guide you through the process. Contact our local North Dakota office to begin. Connect with us here.

How much can I borrow with a VA Loan?

Loan limits are generally tied to local real estate values, but veterans with full entitlement are not subject to loan limits. Check your eligibility here.

What if my credit isn’t perfect?

VA Loans are more forgiving with credit scores. While higher scores may get better rates, veterans with lower credit can still qualify. Learn more about credit requirements.

What are VA Loan occupancy requirements?

You must live in the home as your primary residence, typically moving in within 60 days of closing. Read about VA Loan occupancy rules.