Veterans and military members understand the power of preparation better than most.

That’s good news considering most home buyers still lack a solid grasp of what it takes today to land a home loan.

VA loans tend to feature more flexible and forgiving requirements than other loan types. But this no-down payment program is also a specialized option for home buyers.

Here’s a look at seven essential tips for veterans and service members considering a VA home loan.

1. No COE to start

You don’t need your Certificate of Eligibility to begin. You don’t even need to know if you’re eligible for a VA loan to start.

Lenders will typically obtain this critical document for you using an automated system.

2. Pre-approval is critical

This shows sellers and real estate agents you’re a serious buyer. Some agents won’t even accept an offer on a home without a copy of your pre-approval letter.

Pre-approval also gives you a clear sense of what you can afford and how much house you can buy. The last thing you want is to get under contract only to learn you can’t afford the payments on the home.

3. Find VA-knowledgeable agents

VA-savvy agents can help borrowers avoid properties likely to pose a problem for the VA’s appraisal process. They can also lean on their understanding of VA closing costs to maximize your dollar.

4. Prepare for upfront costs

Most VA buyers take advantage of the $0 down benefit. That’s a huge opportunity that helps get veterans into homes now.

5. Understand closing costs

You can negotiate with the seller to pay some or all of your closing costs. There’s no limit to how much they can contribute to cover loan-related costs.

In addition, sellers can pay up to 4% of the purchase price to pay for things like prepaid property taxes and insurance.

6. Buying condos

Veterans can only purchase condos in VA-approved developments. Lenders can help try to get an unapproved one on the list, but the process can take some time.

Adjust your home-buying timeline accordingly.

7. Not a one-time benefit

Veterans can use the VA loan program over and over again. It’s even possible to have more than one at the same time.

Veterans who’ve lost a VA loan to foreclosure may be able to buy again, too.

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This article was written by Chris Birk, Director of Education at Veterans United Home Loans and author of “The Book on VA Loans: An Essential Guide to Maximizing Your Home Loan Benefits.”