multifamily properties with the VA loan

Can Veterans Use the VA Loan for Multifamily Properties in 2023?

real estate| Veterans
May 17, 2023•2 min read

If you're a veteran looking to combine homeownership with income potential, there’s good news: VA loans can be used to purchase multifamily properties—and 2023 may be one of the best years yet to do it.

With rising housing costs and increased interest in financial independence, more veterans are asking:
“Can I use my VA loan to buy a duplex, triplex, or even a fourplex?”

The answer is yes—with a few important rules to keep in mind.

What the VA Allows (Up to 4 Units!)

The VA loan can be used to purchase up to a 4-unit residential property—as long as you live in one of the units as your primary residence.

That means you could buy:

  • A duplex (live in one unit, rent the other)

  • A triplex (live in one, rent two)

  • A fourplex (live in one, rent three)

And you can do all of this with:

  • $0 down payment

  • No mortgage insurance (PMI)

  • Competitive interest rates

Why This Is a Game-Changer in 2023

In a time when mortgage rates are fluctuating and rent prices remain high, buying a multifamily property allows veterans to:

  • Offset or eliminate their monthly mortgage with rental income

  • Build wealth faster through appreciation and cash flow

  • Start investing in real estate with minimal risk

What You Need to Qualify

To use your VA loan for a multifamily purchase, you’ll need:

  • A valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

  • Proof of sufficient income (including potential rental income in some cases)

  • The intent to occupy one of the units within 60 days of closing

  • A property that meets VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)

Pro Tip: Not all lenders handle multifamily VA deals—work with one experienced in VA-backed multi-unit transactions.

Using Rental Income to Qualify

In some cases, projected rental income from the other units may be counted toward your total income, helping you qualify for a larger loan. Lenders will often require:

  • A signed lease agreement (or market rent analysis)

  • Experience as a landlord or property manager (though not always required)

Bottom Line

Yes, veterans absolutely can use their VA loan for multifamily homes in 2023. It's one of the most powerful and underused features of the VA loan benefit—and a smart way to live for free, generate passive income, and start your real estate investing journey.

If you're ready to become a homeowner and a landlord, this could be your year.

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