VA Loan Myth: Zero Down Does Not Mean Zero Cash With Travis Egan

VA Loan Myth: Zero Down Does Not Mean Zero Cash With Travis Egan

October 29, 2026•2 min read

The Myth That Catches Veterans Off Guard

One of the most common myths in military home buying is the idea that a VA loan means you will never pay a dime out of pocket. Travis Egan hears it often, and he wants every veteran and active duty buyer to understand where it comes from and where it falls short.

What Zero Down Actually Means

Zero down means no down payment. That part is true, and it is one of the most valuable benefits of the VA loan program. But zero down does not mean zero money involved in the transaction. Those are two different things, and confusing them can lead to unpleasant surprises late in the process.

Where Cash Can Still Come Into Play

Even with no down payment, a buyer may still need to bring money to the table. An earnest money deposit is typically part of the contract and is due early in the process. The appraisal fee is another upfront cost. On top of that, any closing costs that are not covered by seller concessions may still fall to the buyer. Depending on the deal, that can mean being out some cash to close.

A Real Number Upfront, Not a Marketing Slogan

Travis believes veterans deserve straight answers instead of slogans. That is why he gives every client a real number upfront, so there are no surprises at the closing table and no scrambling for funds at the last minute. When you know what to expect from day one, you can plan, negotiate, and shop with confidence.

Have Questions About Your VA Loan?

If you are a veteran or active duty service member thinking about using your VA benefit, reach out to Travis Egan with your questions. He is here to help. Semper Fi.


Sources

VA.gov
BenefitS.va.gov
ConsumerFinancialProtectionBureau.gov
HUD.gov
Investopedia.com

Travis Egan

Travis Egan

Travis Egan is a Marine Corps combat veteran, Certified Veteran Mortgage Advisor, and mortgage professional with 30+ years of experience helping military families, veterans, first-time homebuyers, and homeowners make confident mortgage decisions. Based in Clarksville, Tennessee, near Fort Campbell, Travis has helped more than 5,000 families navigate VA loans, home purchases, refinancing, and other mortgage options. He focuses on making the mortgage process easier to understand by providing clear, practical guidance without unnecessary jargon. Travis also hosts the Clarksville Keys Podcast, where he talks with local real estate professionals, business owners, and community leaders about living, buying a home, PCSing, and building a life in Clarksville and the Fort Campbell area. Through TravisEgan.com, Travis shares educational resources about VA loans, the Clarksville housing market, Fort Campbell PCS moves, mortgage strategies, homeownership, and the local community. Travis Egan, NMLS #655284 Loan Factory, NMLS #320841

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