Oklahoma

Welcome to Oklahoma

Oklahoma, known for its rich Native American history and wide-open plains, offers a blend of urban and rural lifestyles. The state's friendly communities, low cost of living, and strong military presence make it an appealing place for veterans and active-duty personnel. From bustling cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa to the peaceful countryside, Oklahoma's diverse landscape provides something for everyone.

With a deep respect for military service, Oklahoma offers a range of veteran benefits that span housing, education, and financial support. Veterans and their families can take advantage of tax exemptions, home loans, and education programs, making the state a welcoming environment for those who've served.

Major Oklahoma Cities

Oklahoma is home to several major cities, each contributing to the state's unique character. Oklahoma City, the state capital, serves as a major hub for government, business, and culture. Tulsa blends art deco architecture with a thriving energy sector. Lawton, Norman, and Broken Arrow further highlight Oklahoma's economic growth and vibrant communities.

Quick Links To Other City Pages

Oklahoma City

Tulsa

Norman

Edmond

Lawton

Veteran Benefits in Oklahoma

Oklahoma honors its veterans through a variety of programs designed to provide financial assistance, housing, employment opportunities, and recreational benefits. These benefits reflect the state's commitment to supporting its military community.

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Oklahoma's Military Presence

Oklahoma is home to a significant number of military installations that play vital roles in national defense and local economies. These bases provide employment opportunities, training, and community support for active-duty personnel and veterans. From Air Force bases to National Guard facilities, Oklahoma’s military footprint reflects its strategic importance.

• Tinker Air Force Base: Located in Oklahoma City, Tinker AFB is a major logistics hub and the largest single-site employer in the state. It hosts the Air Force Sustainment Center and provides critical maintenance and repair services for military aircraft.
• Fort Sill: Situated near Lawton, Fort Sill is the Army’s primary artillery training base. It also serves as a key center for air defense artillery and hosts a significant number of active-duty Army personnel and families.
• Vance Air Force Base: Located in Enid, Vance AFB specializes in pilot training for the Air Force, preparing both U.S. and allied pilots for operational readiness.
• Altus Air Force Base: Altus AFB plays a crucial role in training aircrews on large aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster and KC-135 Stratotanker, supporting strategic airlift and aerial refueling operations.
• McAlester Army Ammunition Plant: McAlester is a key facility for the production and storage of munitions used by the U.S. military. Its operations are essential to national defense and munitions readiness.
• Oklahoma National Guard Facilities: Across the state, National Guard armories and training facilities contribute to both domestic and overseas missions, ensuring readiness and support for disaster relief and homeland security.

Oklahoma VA Loan Requirements

VA loan requirements in Oklahoma align with national standards, with service time, discharge status, and general conditions set by the VA. These loans provide veterans and active-duty personnel favorable terms for home purchases and refinancing.

To qualify for a VA loan, 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 have other conditions, including:

• Funding Fee: A one-time fee that helps cover the cost of the loan, varying based on down payment and military category. Some veterans may qualify for a reduced fee or exemption.
• Occupancy Requirement: Borrowers typically must occupy their new home within 60 days of purchase, with exceptions for deployment or assignments.
• Primary Residence Use: VA loans are strictly for primary residences, not investment properties or vacation homes.

Oklahoma VA Loan Limits

VA loan limits in Oklahoma follow the standard conforming loan limit of $766,550 in most areas. Certain higher-cost areas might have higher limits. With full entitlement, veterans can borrow above this limit without a down payment. Partial entitlement may require covering the difference in property value if exceeding loan limits.

VA Loan Entitlement in Oklahoma

VA loan entitlement determines how much the VA guarantees to lenders in case of borrower default. There are two types:

• Full Entitlement: With full entitlement, there’s no loan limit, allowing veterans to borrow without a down payment. The VA will guarantee up to 25% of the loan.
• Remaining Entitlement: Veterans with remaining entitlement from previous loans can reuse their benefit, but limits may apply based on the county’s loan cap.

Consult your Loan Officer to understand how entitlement affects your borrowing options.

VA Loan Rates in Oklahoma

Mortgage rates for VA loans typically remain lower than conventional loans due to the government guarantee. Rates fluctuate based on market conditions, credit score, and loan type. VA loans also offer reduced closing costs and the absence of private mortgage insurance (PMI).

Types of VA Mortgage Programs in Oklahoma

• VA Purchase Loan: Designed for home buying, with fixed and adjustable-rate options.
• VA Cash-Out Refinance Loan: Allows refinancing of up to 100% of the home’s value to access cash for various needs.
• VA Streamline Refinance Loan (IRRRL): Simplified refinancing that reduces interest rates or payments without needing a full appraisal.

How to Get a VA Loan in Oklahoma

Follow these steps to secure a VA loan in Oklahoma:

1. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE): This document proves eligibility. Your Loan Officer can assist with this.
2. Choose the Right Loan: Work with your Loan Officer to determine the VA loan that suits your needs.
3. Find a Home: Select a property that meets VA appraisal guidelines and negotiate the purchase.
4. Home Appraisal: The VA will conduct a property appraisal to ensure it meets minimum property requirements (MPRs).
5. Loan Approval and Closing: After approval, your lender will finalize the loan and arrange for closing.

After closing, you can move into your new home and take full advantage of VA loan benefits.

Real Estate in Oklahoma

Oklahoma's real estate market offers affordable housing options across urban and rural areas. Cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa provide a mix of suburban neighborhoods, historic homes, and modern developments. The state’s low cost of living, combined with its strong job market and vibrant community life, makes it an attractive destination for veterans and their families.

With competitive housing prices compared to national averages, veterans using VA loans in Oklahoma can access quality homes with favorable loan terms. Whether you’re looking for a cozy suburban property or a spacious rural retreat, Oklahoma has something to offer for every lifestyle.