If you're a veteran who served at least 90 days of active duty during a declared war, or over 181 days of peace time service, you are eligible for a VA loan to help purchase a home. Note that only active veterans or those honorably discharged qualify.

First things first, go online to the Department of Veteran Affairs: Regional Loan Centers and find the nearest loan center in your area. Give them a call. This center can then provide you with a list of VA approved lenders to contact. Also ask if they have any recommendations. Not all approved VA lenders are created equal.

You can also visit the VA Mortgage Center: VA Loan Eligibility Requirements online to review any requirements about which you may be uncertain. Call several of the approved lenders and get a feel for their level of experience. If you can get a face-to-face meeting, all the better. Choose the one that you feel most comfortable with, and that illustrates the greatest amount of hands-on experience with VA loan processing.

While you can only have one active loan at a time, currently you can obtain up to $417,000 toward a house (as of 2010). Thanks to all who serve and happy house hunting.