Rocket Companies Inc. Press Release: VA Loans Gain Traction Among Homebuyers

In a recent press release dated November 5, 2025, Rocket Companies Inc. shared significant insights from a report by Redfin, highlighting an upward trend in the utilization of VA loans among mortgaged homebuyers. This increase is particularly notable as the housing market shifts in favor of buyers, allowing military members and veterans to capitalize on advantageous mortgage options.

According to Redfin's analysis, 7.3% of mortgaged homebuyers utilized a VA loan in August 2025, marking an increase from 6.5% the previous year. This is the highest percentage recorded for this month since 2019, indicating a growing acceptance and preference for VA loans among eligible buyers.

Bill Banfield, Chief Business Officer at Rocket, emphasized the importance of VA loans, stating, “Military members have made sacrifices to protect our home. VA loans are one of the most powerful benefits available to veterans and service members, opening doors to homeownership with zero down payment, no monthly mortgage insurance, and flexible credit requirements.”

The report further reveals that the number of VA loans issued has risen by 3% year-over-year, contrasting sharply with a 9% decline in conventional loan usage. This shift signifies a broader trend where military members are increasingly leveraging their benefits in a buyer-friendly market.

The current housing market dynamics have shifted dramatically compared to the ultra-competitive environment observed during the pandemic. In 2020-2021, less than 6% of mortgaged homebuyers opted for VA loans, primarily due to the competitive nature of the seller's market. As Jim Fletcher, a Redfin Premier agent, noted, “The market is slow, there’s a backlog of inventory, and buyers are in the driver’s seat.”

This buyer's market allows veterans to make offers with minimal down payments while negotiating closing credits, significantly enhancing their chances of securing a home.

Despite the positive trends for VA loans, challenges remain. The overall market may be slower, but properties in desirable neighborhoods are still attracting multiple offers. As highlighted by Matt Ferris, a Redfin Premier agent in Virginia, sellers may opt for conventional loans offering higher bids, even when they would prefer to sell to military families.

Virginia Beach, VA, stands out as the city with the highest proportion of VA loan usage, with 43.2% of mortgaged homebuyers utilizing this option in August 2025. This marks the most significant prevalence recorded for VA loans in Virginia Beach during any August. Following Virginia Beach, Jacksonville, FL (17.2%), Washington, D.C. (16.7%), San Diego, CA (15.2%), and Las Vegas, NV (11.9%) also displayed noteworthy usage of VA loans.

The report shows that 32 out of 40 metropolitan areas surveyed experienced an increase in VA loan usage, with notable rises in Orlando, FL (8.2%, from 5.3% year-over-year) and San Diego, CA (15.2%, from 12.3%). While some areas saw a slight decline in VA loan usage, these changes were minimal, often around one percentage point.

The findings from Rocket Companies Inc. and Redfin underscore a pivotal moment for military members and veterans in the housing market. With the increasing acceptance of VA loans, coupled with favorable market conditions, there is a significant opportunity for service members to achieve homeownership. The data reflects a broader trend of leveraging veteran benefits in a buyer's market, making homeownership more accessible than ever for those who have served the nation.

For more detailed insights, readers can explore the full report provided by Redfin.