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Tinley Park, IL

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Residential and Commercial plumbers and plumbing contractors available in Orland Park, Tinley Park, Oak Lawn, Palos Heights, Midlothian, Oak Forest, Homer Glen, Mokena, Frankfort, and the surrounding Chicago South Suburbs. Emergency plumbers.

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Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing Blog

Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing is Tinley Park, Orland Park, Oak Forest, Midlothian, Orland Hill, Homer Glen, Mokena, Frankfort, Crestwood, Palos Heights, Oak Lawn, local plumber. Read our blog for advice, tips, a good laugh, and basic home improvement.

**We are moving our old blog to our new and improved website. Too see all our posts visit kevinszabojrplumbing.blogspot.com

Dog Wash Station Inspiration

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Are you looking to add a dog wash station in your house because you’re always washing your dogs? These stations can be very beneficial for you and the dog, no more hovering over your bathtub trying to clean the dog, and the dog will probably be way less stressed as well. They can look aesthetically pleasing, so no worries on that aspect! Make your life easier for you and your dog.

Blue Collar Eats - Los Sarapes in Midlothian

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We visited Los Sarapes in Midlothian, located at 147th and Waverly, by the train tracks. We were accompanied by Kevin’s good buddy Dan - (he refer to him as his workout buddy because he works out, and it’s his buddy!)

Kevin loves to get his tacos with Cilantro, onion and a little salsa, because he’s a “simple guy” as he mentions in the video.

“One of the best tacos I’ve had, it’s so good.” Says Kevin.

“I like how the chicken is thinly shredded, I don’t like the big chunks, you know? The cilantro is fresh, the onion is fresh. Like I said, when you have good ingredients, it makes for a good taco.” Says Dan.

Kevin explains how the salsa is nice and hot, kind of like a diablo type of hot, but “not too hot, it’s perfect.”

We asked some of the people eating here on their opinion of the food, and this wonderful family had all the nice things to say about Los Sarapes. “Every party I’ve ever done, everyone wonders where I get the tacos from. They’re the best thing! Tony is the best, we love it here. We love coming here to Los Sarapes because good food is hard to find even though a lot of places pop up left and right.”

Dan was eating the rice and everything else on this plate, and then mentions, “I can’t believe I’ve never been to this place. It’s like Heaven in Midlothian.” Dan is a Midlothian resident who lives within walking distance to Los Sarapes, so Kevin was just as shocked as Dan when he mentioned he’s never came here.

“I like to look my fish in the eye before I eat them, show them whos boss! Let them know, I’m going to get you sucker. I don’t like the way he’s looking at me!” Kevin says. He loves sea food, and he loves that he can get a good quality shrimp or crab leg right here locally in Midlothian.

If you’re looking for a great local place to get tacos, Los Sarapes should definitely be the top on you list. You won’t be disappointed, everything they have to offer is worth it!

You can watch our Blue Collar Eats on Facebook HERE!

How to Convert a Shipping Container Into a Bathroom

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When people think about homes, many associate them with either houses or flats. But, does it really need to be this way, are there no other options? Not only for homes but also for any other spaces that serve other purposes. It is no secret that shipping containers can be converted into functioning bathrooms. It is also no secret that this conversion is pretty simple in its nature. Here is how you can make such a convenient conversion of a container into a bathroom.

Power

Power is essential to any sort of shipping container conversion. Once you have power installed, you can think about other shipping container modifications that you need to install. Luckily, installing power is pretty easy in a container, especially with the help of professionals. Handling wires by yourself can be quite hazardous, which is why it is best to let others handle them.

Plumbing

It is no secret that new shipping containers can be converted into functioning bathrooms. One of the reasons why shipping container bathrooms are so popular is because of plumbing. Regular portable bathrooms are quite inconvenient when it comes to draining them. When installing plumbing in a container, you must use piping that is easy to disconnect. Shipping container bathrooms are also convenient because they too are portable. Just remember to use piping and other connections easy to connect and disconnect at any time.

Walls

As with every piping, you will need to make certain cuts in your walls. It is important to mark all of these spots and insert the piping accordingly. Once the piping is in place, you will need to cover the walls and holes with waterproof materials. This usually means ceramic tiles and caulk around the holes. It is important to make it impenetrable for moisture to avoid mold formation within the container.

Lightweight

Toilets, bathtubs, showers, and sinks can be made out of lightweight materials. Many associate these bathroom staples with something pretty heavy, but there are many more materials out there. From plastic to stainless steel alloys, there are many options you should take into consideration. All of these materials are also pretty easy to maintain, perfect for bathrooms. It is important to use these lightweight materials so it can be easier to transport the container.

Comfortable

Shipping container bathrooms should not only be concentrated on their utility purpose. This type of bathroom can be made to look truly beautiful. Think of them as any other type of bathroom and how you want them to look. Just some simple changes in lighting and a few plants can really liven up the bathroom.

A beautiful bathroom is always something everyone can appreciate when taking their time. Just think how dull the experience is in the regular portable bathroom. It is little things like this that truly make the world a breathtaking place.

Thinking outside of the box is the key when it comes to making smart solutions. Shipping containers are one such smart solution made through thinking outside of the box. Shipping container bathrooms are so convenient and yet so functional at the same time. Almost everyone can confirm that this kind of bathroom is much better than the regular portable bathroom.

Why You Should Regularly Inspect And Fix Your Doors And Windows

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It's no secret that crime is on the rise. According to the FBI, there was an estimated 1.7 million burglaries in the United States in 2016 alone. That's one burglary every 20 seconds. And while it's impossible to completely protect your home from burglars, there are a few things you can do to make it more difficult for them, such as regularly inspecting and fixing your doors and windows.

Additionally, fixing broken windows and doors can help to reduce your home's energy consumption. A recent study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology found that window replacement can result in an average reduction of 20% to 40% in heating and cooling costs.

So, not only will regularly inspecting and fixing your doors and windows help to protect your home from burglary, but it can also save you money on your energy bills.

So, what are you waiting for? Start inspecting and fixing your doors and windows today!

1) Inspecting Your Doors And Windows

When inspecting your doors and windows, look for the following:

- Broken windows

- Windows that don't close properly

- Doors that don't close properly

- Doors and windows that are poorly sealed

- Damaged or missing locks

If you find any of the above, repair or replace them as soon as possible.

Windows and doors that are not properly sealed can let in drafts, which can lead to higher energy bills. In addition, they can also allow moisture to enter your home, which can cause damage to your walls, ceilings, and floors.

To prevent this, make sure to regularly inspect your windows and doors for any damage or defects, and fix them as soon as possible.

2) Why It's Important

There are a few reasons why you should inspect and fix your doors and windows regularly.

The most important reason is that it will help to protect your home from burglary. A broken window or door with missing locks is an open invitation for burglars looking for easy targets. A company like Woodbridge Home Solutions can help you to fix this with commercial window repair. Additionally, fixing broken windows and doors can help to reduce your home's energy consumption. A recent study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology found that window replacement can result in an average reduction of 20% to 40% in heating and cooling costs.

So, not only will regularly inspecting and fixing your doors and windows help to protect your home from burglary, but it can also save you money on your energy bills.

3) What To Do If You Find A Problem

If you find a problem with your doors or windows, don't wait to fix it. Repair or replace them as soon as possible. And if you're not comfortable doing the repairs yourself, hire a professional to do it for you.

4) How To Fix A Broken Window Or Door?

There are a few things you can do to fix a broken window or door:

- Repair the window or door yourself

- Hire a professional to repair the window or door

- Replace the window or door

If you choose to repair the window or door yourself, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If you're not comfortable doing the repairs yourself, hire a professional to do it for you. And if you choose to replace the window or door, be sure to research the best options for your home.

5) Increase The Resale Value Of Your Home

Regularly inspecting and fixing your doors and windows can also increase the resale value of your home. A home in good condition is more likely to sell quickly and for a higher price than a home that is in poor condition.

So, if you're thinking of selling your home in the future, be sure to regularly inspect and fix your doors and windows.

When inspecting your doors and windows, look for the following: - Broken windows - Windows that don't close properly - Doors that don't close properly - Doors and windows that are poorly sealed - Damaged or missing locks. If you find any of the above, repair or replace them as soon as possible. In addition to protecting against burglary, fixing broken windows and doors can help to reduce your home's energy consumption. Windows and doors that are not properly sealed can let in drafts, which can lead to higher energy bills. If you're not comfortable doing the repairs yourself, hire a professional to do it for you. And if you choose to replace the window or door, be sure to research the best options for your home. Regularly inspecting and fixing your doors and windows can also increase the resale value of your home.

7 Plumbing Considerations When Building a New Home

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Building a new home can be exciting but it can also be nerve-wracking. From deciding on the floor plan to the paint colors to use in different parts of the house, it can be a lot. However, you need to stay on top of things by being informed. This is especially important for aspects of the home that could cause major restructuring if they needed to be changed. Plumbing is one such aspect of homebuilding. You need to get it right from the very first steps of planning. A poorly working plumbing system can be a nightmare in the future. From blocked drainage to floods and everything in-between, you need to prevent all issues. How can you do this? By bearing the following considerations in mind as you build your home.

Current and Future Plumbing Needs

You may just be a small family now but what about in the future when the members increase? Do you plan on moving to another home? If not, bear in mind what your future plans are. Think of the number of bathrooms you need. How many rooms in the house will need a water supply? The pipes, drain lines, and sewers need to be installed in such a way that they ensure utmost functioning. Outdoor plumbing needs should also be considered and plans made appropriately.

 

It is good to discuss with your contractor about your plumbing needs at the early stages of planning. Determine how well the desired plumbing will work with the floor plan you choose and make changes if necessary. Good home builders in NC will allow you to alter the floor plan as necessary to suit your plumbing needs.

Required Permits

Plumbing work is governed by strict regulations that differ from one state to the other. In most states, plumbing work will require one to have a permit before commencing operations. Find out what the specific qualifications are in your state. Apply for permits early to allow time for processing.

 

Talk to your plumbing contractors about whether they can get the permits for you or not. Do not just assume that they will only be frustrated later.

Conveniently Place Plumbing in a Central Location

Placing plumbing fixtures in one place makes it easy to carry out repairs and maintenance. The water heater, sump pit, sewage ejector pit, water softener, and main water shut-off valve should be placed in one place. Remember that these are not the most beautiful sights in your house so it is best to keep them hidden. The basement is a perfect location because it has enough space and stays out of sight. If you do not have a basement, a hidden part of the home (such as a utility closet) will work just as fine.

Save Money with Wet Wall Sharing

A wet wall is a side of a room’s walls that houses the water pipes, vent stacks, and sewer lines. Having different rooms share the same wet wall will save you money and time. You will need to buy fewer supplies and put in less work. To achieve this, have kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms share walls.

 

The materials for constructing a wet wall will differ from those used in making other walls. Having as few wet walls as possible will save you money on these special materials.

Use Quality and Water Saving Materials

Only high-quality materials should be used to install your home’s plumbing system. Find the best quality pipes that will serve you for a long time without requiring repairs.

A leaky tap can cause you to lose gallons of water even if that leakage is only a drop at a time. Invest in high-quality plumbing fixtures that ensure effective water usage and minimal wastage. Consider using low-flow showers, toilets, and sinks. These will reduce water consumption significantly which means lower utility bills. Plus, mother nature will be happy as well.

Keep the Shut Off Valve within Reach

The last thing you want to do is to swim across the basement to shut off the water supply in a flooded home. Hopefully, this will not happen but it is better safe than sorry. Place the shutoff valve near the basement’s entrance or at a location that can be easily accessed from outside. This is to allow easy shutoff if the need ever arises. Shutting the main water supply off quickly when a pipe bursts may save you from property damage worth hundreds of dollars.

Work with a Professional Plumber

You do not want to make the plumbing of your new home a DIY affair. You do not want to risk safety issues with your new home, right? Get a qualified plumber to do all the plumbing work for you. He or she understands the requirements and workmanship best. Offer the best support you can but let the contractor take charge of the entire process.

 

With these considerations in mind, you will be able to build a home that is not only functional but efficient as well. Your plumbing needs are very crucial and nothing should be left to chance.

Guest Contributor: Elizabeth Howard

Home Improvement Pallet Ideas

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Do you have extra pallets laying around that you don’t know what to do with? Lucky for you, we love DIY pallet projects. There are so many ways to recycle and reuse the pallets to make home decor!

A book shelf is the perfect thing to make with a pallet. Easy, affordable and customizable. You can choose whatever color you’d like to paint it to fit in with the aesthetic of your house!

Pallet bed frames are becoming a huge trend because of how easy it is to get ahold of the materials and how nice it looks. Lots of people love the idea of lighting up underneath their bed. Definitely a DIY money saver since bed frames can get expensive.

Need a spot to hold all of your household tools? A pallet is the perfect thing to use because it doesn’t take up much space, it’s big enough that the tools fit in perfectly and it keeps you more organized with everything in one spot. Not to mention, you can move it around your garage if you need to!

Looking for more decorations for your house? Pallets are perfect because you can accessorize it with almost anything you can think of and it still looks adoable. You can put this inside or outside, the possibilities are endless.

This is the perfect idea for a dog bed. A lot of dogs tear up their dog bed because of the material, but having a wooden base with a pad ontop of the base would probably deter them from ruining it. Plus, it’s a sturdy, reliable bed!

This pallet bar will take a little more effort in the DIY aspect but this would be perfect for an outdoor bar. Not too big, not too small and you can recycle your pallets into this.

Another bar set up, but this one would make a great permnanet bar in your backyard!

This cute pallet cabana can be your spring and summer get away outdoors. Perfect to sit in to read a book, or just enjoy the outdoors without sitting in the sun.

Want a fenced in garden but you don’t know what type of fence? This is perfect because it still allows light through the pallets, and the side of the garden can be endless!

Another fence type of design that allows for all those plant lovers to have a place to plant them!

Lawn furniture can get very expensive, but good thing pallets are very cost effective. This is a perfect way to get more bang for your buck!

Pallets are very durable and sturdy, so this would make the perfect porch swing.

Setting Up A Truck For Your Plumbing Business

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When setting up a truck for your plumbing business, there are a few key things to keep in mind. It's important to have everything you need on hand so that you can be efficient and effective while on the job. Here are some tips for setting up your truck

1. Truck tarps

A truck tarp is an essential piece of equipment for any plumbing business. It's important to have a quality tarp that will protect your truck and its contents from the elements.  Choose a tarp that is made of high-quality materials and is weatherproof. This will ensure that your truck and tools are protected from the elements. You can get custom mesh tarps that have a high level of water and wind resistance. Make sure the tarp is large enough to cover your entire truck. This will keep moisture and dirt from getting into your truck bed and causing damage. Look for a tarp with grommets along the edges. This will make it easier to attach the tarp to your truck. Choose a tarp that is flame resistant. This will help protect your truck in the event of a fire.

2. Ladder rack

A ladder rack is a must-have for any plumbing business. It's important to have a safe place to store your ladders while you're on the job. A ladder rack will keep your ladders safe and secure while you're driving. It's also a great way to organize your truck. You can store all of your tools and supplies in one place. This will make it easier for you to find what you need when you're on the job. Look for a ladder rack that is made of heavy-duty materials. This will ensure that it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. Its durable construction will help keep your ladders safe and secure.

3. Toolbox

A toolbox is another essential piece of equipment for any plumbing business. It's important to have a place to store your tools and supplies while you're on the job. A toolbox will keep your tools organized and safe. It's also a great way to keep your truck clean. You can store all of your tools and supplies in one place. This will make it easier for you to find what you need when you're on the job. Look for a toolbox that is made of heavy-duty materials. This will ensure that it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. It's also important to choose a toolbox that is waterproof. This will help protect your tools from the elements.

4. Shelving

Shelving is another essential piece of equipment for any plumbing business. It's important to have a place to store your tools and supplies while you're on the job. Shelving will keep your tools organized and safe. It's also a great way to keep your truck clean. You can store all of your tools and supplies in one place. This will make it easier for you to find what you need when you're on the job. Look for shelving that is made of heavy-duty materials. This will ensure that it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.

Setting up a truck for your plumbing business is essential for being efficient and effective while on the job. These were some of the most important and essential things to keep in mind when setting up your truck. Make sure you have a quality tarp, ladder rack, toolbox, and shelving to help you keep your truck organized and safe.

How to Become Cash Flow Positive

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Cash flow is the lifeblood of your business. Without a steady cash flow, you could be forced to shut down in a matter of months. You might have a product or service that customers love and are willing to buy from you. However, if you don't have the cash in place to fund your company's growth and development, this could spell disaster.

Assess Your Monthly Income

Assessing your monthly income will give you an idea of how much money you bring in each month. This is a good starting point for creating a budget since your budget will be based on your income.

 

Use Net Income instead of Gross Income. Net income is your gross income minus all taxes and other deductions. It's the actual amount of money that goes into your bank account each month, so it's what you should use when calculating your monthly expenses.

Improve Your Income Sources

The first thing you must do to become cash flow positive is to improve your income sources. The easiest way to do this is to get a second job or start your own business. If you don't have the time or know-how to start a business, then working part-time at night or on weekends may be your best bet. Either way, you need to find a way to make more money.

You Can Improve Your Income by Understanding the Rule of 72

As you start to earn more, your financial priority should be to become cash-flow positive. The first step to becoming cash flow positive is understanding the Rule of 72. This rule states that in order to find the number of years required to double your money at a given interest rate, you just divide the interest rate into 72. For example: If you are able to get an 8% return on your investment, then it will take 9 years for your money to double (72/8 = 9).

 

In order to become cash-flow positive, you need to find an investment vehicle that will give you a positive return and will do so consistently year after year. You also need to understand how compounding works and how it can dramatically increase your wealth over time.

Improve Your Income by Settling Debts

You can also improve your income sources by selling your house; you can sell your house to a company that buys houses in cash or states we buy houses San Antonio TX. If you are cash flow positive, then it may be possible for you to sell your house and use the proceeds from the sale as extra money to pay off debt. You can also choose to rent out your home and downsize into a smaller place while you begin to make an income from your rental property. This will help you build equity in your home and allow you to use that equity as collateral for loans that will help you pay off even more debt.

Track Your Expenses to Create a Budget

If you're like most people, it may be a while since you've looked at your bank statements and credit card bills. So, before we jump into making a budget, let's look at what you've been spending money on over the last few months. This will provide a good starting point for your budget.

 

Gather all the statements from the past three months—bank and credit card statements. You might be surprised by how much you spend in categories like dining out and groceries. This is especially important if you haven't made a budget before because you can see exactly how much money you're spending and where it's going.

Create an Emergency Fund

Creating an emergency fund is an important step toward becoming cash flow positive. The purpose of an emergency fund is to help you prepare for the unexpected.

 

The smallest possible starting amount for an emergency fund is $1,000. You can increase the number if you want to, but it is a good place to start. The idea is to keep building this fund so that you have 3-6 months' worth of expenses saved up in case you get laid off or suffer a financial setback.

Create A Retirement Account

You should start saving for retirement as soon as possible because the earlier you start, the more time your money can grow. If you're just starting out and don't have much to save, don't worry – even small contributions will add up if you start early enough.

Get A 401K Retirement Plan

Many employers offer their workers a 401(k) plan, which allows employees to contribute pre-tax money toward their retirement. These plans are often matched, meaning that the employer contributes to the employee's retirement fund as well.

 

The primary benefit of a 401(k) is the fact that it allows you to take advantage of tax-free growth, meaning you don't have to pay taxes on the money until you withdraw it from the account. In addition, many people like 401(k)s because they allow for automatic deposits into your retirement fund. However, 401(k)s have limited investment options and high administrative costs.

Conclusion

Becoming cash flow positive is an important milestone for any business, but it's not always easy to reach. The first and most important step you can take is to figure out where your business stands now so you have a reference point going forward. Once you know that, you can begin taking steps to get there.

Guest Contributor: Hannah Boothe

8 Essential Gadgets and Tools for Every Home DIY Needs

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Having the right tools and gadgets around your home makes DIY projects and repairs much easier and can even save you time and money. If you are a home DIY enthusiast, there are several tools and gadgets that are essential in your toolbox. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced builder, these eight essential gadgets will help make your home improvement projects easier and less time-consuming.

 

1. Hammer

A hammer is one of the most versatile tools around and can be used for a variety of tasks, from fixing things to pounding nails. It is a good tool to have around the house in case of a home repair emergency. In addition to being useful in DIY projects, a hammer can be used as a weapon for self-defense.

2. Drill

A Drill is an essential tool for any DIY enthusiast. A drill is useful when making repairs, installing new hardware, and more. A drill can be powered by a battery or an electric motor. Moreover, drill bits come in various shapes and sizes, and you can choose the one that fits your needs depending on the task at hand.

3. Screwdriver

A screwdriver is essential for tightening screws and installing door hinges and locks. You can also use it for removing screws from boards and panels. It can also be used as a stabbing tool when repairing furniture. Moreover, a screwdriver will come in handy when repairing electronics and automobiles. Some screwdrivers also have interchangeable heads that can be used for various tasks.

4. Tape Measure

A tape measure is essential for any DIY project because it allows you to measure distances and widths accurately. You can use it to check the size of furniture pieces before you start assembling them or to mark the location of holes on walls or ceilings for later installation of plumbing or wires.

5. Wrench

A wrench is used to tighten or loosen screws, bolts, and other objects. It is also used to pry open objects. A wrench can be made from many different materials, including metal, plastic, or wood. Wrenches are generally divided into three categories based on the shape of their handle: straight-handled wrenches, ratchet-handled wrenches, and socket wrenches. Their versatility makes them a must-have tool for any home DIY project.

6. Cordless Drill

If you’re a DIYer, then you definitely need a cordless drill. A good cordless drill can do everything from drilling holes in wood to screwing screws into boards. It comes in handy for smaller jobs, and it saves wear and tear on your hands and arms when doing projects that require repetitive use.

 

7. Lube Shuttle Electric Grease Gun

lube shuttle electric grease gun is a handheld tool that is used to apply lubrication to machinery, equipment, or other objects. It consists of a gun-shaped body that is fitted with a trigger and a nozzle. Lubricant is stored in the body of the gun and is released when the trigger is pulled. This type of grease gun is powered by electricity and is, therefore, suitable for use in areas where there is no access to a power supply. If you need to apply lubrication quickly and efficiently, this tool will come in handy.

8. Jigsaw

A jigsaw is useful when cutting wood into different shapes and sizes. It also has a blade that you can use to remove wood filler or other materials. This tool is helpful for creating a precise finish on projects. Additionally, you can also use a jigsaw to make cuts in metal or other hard materials. Moreover, the blade on a jigsaw can also be sharpened to create precision cuts. As such, a jigsaw can offer many benefits when it comes to crafting and repairing items to add value to your home.

 

Closing Thoughts

When it comes to DIY projects, having the right tools is essential. These eight items will help you get started on your project and make it easier and faster. If you have any questions about any of these tools, be sure to ask a professional before beginning a project. They can provide guidance and instruction that will help you complete your task successfully. Home improvement projects can be fun, but they're not easy—be sure to use the right tools to make the process easier.

Guest Contributor: Tracie Johnson

8 Reasons You Should Apply for a VA Loan

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Finding an affordable mortgage that you’re eligible for can be challenging, especially in the current home buying market. Despite so many different loan options available, it can be difficult to find the one that’s right for you.

If you’re a veteran or an active-duty military member, then you likely qualify for a VA loan! Even if you qualify for other loan types, if you can apply for and benefit from a VA cash-out refinance loan, then it’s definitely worth your time. In many situations, VA loans are the best option available and if you glance at the eight reasons below, you’ll quickly understand why.

8 Reasons You Should Apply for a VA Loan

#1. No Down Payment

While other mortgages will require a down payment of anywhere between 3.5% to 20%, a VA loan does not require a down payment. For many people, providing a down payment is one of the biggest obstacles in buying a house. You need to come up with a large sum of money before you can benefit from the loan and in many cases, this is very difficult.

With a VA loan, you won’t have to scrounge up every last penny you’ve saved in order to put down a down payment. Instead, you can benefit from the loan without this obstacle.

#2. No Minimum Credit Score

Another major challenge for potential homeowners is having a high enough credit score to be approved for a loan. While conventional mortgage loans have a minimum score of 620, FHA loans set their minimum to 580. Many lenders raise their minimum score requirement to avoid risky investments.

In many cases, you may be asked to show a credit score of 680 or higher which makes it difficult for buyers.

When it comes to VA loans there is no minimum score requirement. This being said, some lenders may still request a copy of your credit score in order to assess how much of a risk you are. Because of this, it’s recommended you have a score of 580 or more, though it is not an eligibility requirement.

The VA program will look at your credit history for the last year, so it’s important you haven’t filed for bankruptcy or had a collection marked on your credit score. As long as you have relatively good payback standings and haven’t had any problems, you’ll be good.

#3. Relaxed Debt to Income Ratio

Your debt to income (DTI) ratio often plays a huge role in the determining of your mortgage. For most conventional loans, this ratio is capped at 36%. For VA loans, however, it’s around 41%. Depending on the lender you contact, they may permit a higher ratio, though you shouldn’t always rely on this. 

#4. No Mortgage Insurance Requirement

Most mortgages will require you to get private mortgage insurance. The cost for this is added on top of your mortgage payment and is often raised if you’re unable to provide a 20% down payment. This makes paying for a mortgage much more expensive. 

While not all conventional loans require private mortgage insurance, all FHA mortgages require it. When it comes to VA loans, however, private mortgage insurance is never required!

As VA loans are backed by the government, lenders don’t require you to pay for private mortgage insurance in addition to your regular mortgage payments. All the money you would have otherwise spent on insurance can go directly into paying off your loan, saving you thousands of dollars.

#5. Lower Interest Rates

Mortgages typically have fairly high interest rates, especially if you don’t have an excellent credit score. While refinancing may help you switch to a loan with a lower interest rate, you won’t be able to do this right away and you’ll still lose quite a bit of money simply by having to pay so much in interest.

VA loans normally have lower interest rates than other mortgage types. This is again due to the loan being backed by the federal government.

While the average interest rate for conventional loans is anywhere between 3.5% to 4.5%, a high VA loan interest will hover around 3.5%. Of course, this will vary from lender to lender, but on average, you’ll have lower interest rates with a VA loan than you would with another type of loan.

#6. No Prepayment Penalty

In some cases, lenders will require you to pay an extra fee if you are able or willing to pay off your mortgage before the term ends. This can be discouraging for those who want to either refinance or pay in full for their loan.

If you are able or willing to pay off your mortgage in full, a VA loan will not penalize you.

#7. Easier Qualification

Qualifying for a mortgage can be a difficult and long process. You’ll be asked to provide multiple documents and even if you do, you may still be denied. Even pre approval may be revoked and you’ll find yourself back at square one.

VA loans are much easier to qualify for. Eligibility requirements can be found on the VA website along with more helpful information about applying for a certificate of eligibility and what to do if you don’t meet the requirements. There’s also a phone number provided at the bottom if you have any additional questions or need some extra assistance.

#8. Easy Refinance

If you’ve previously taken out another type of loan, VA loans can be used to refinance your current loans. When you refinance a previous loan into a VA loan, you’ll benefit from all the advantages mentioned above and won’t have to worry about managing multiple loan types.

Conclusion

VA loans are there to help former and active-duty military members. If you qualify, it’s certainly worthwhile to look into the option and take advantage of it. Even if you could easily qualify for a conventional loan, VA loans come with so many other benefits that it makes the most sense for you to take advantage of it anyway.