TUCSON, AZ (May 7, 2026) — U.S. Representative Juan Ciscomani has joined bipartisan efforts to modernize and streamline the Department of Veterans Affairs home loan program through the proposed VA Home Loan Affordability Act.
The legislation is designed to reduce delays, lower costs, and improve access to homeownership for veterans using VA-backed financing. Supporters say the bill addresses longstanding frustrations within the VA loan process that can place veteran buyers at a disadvantage in competitive housing markets.
Among the key provisions, the bill would accelerate the certification process for VA appraisers, reducing the time required to become eligible from several years to approximately 12 to 18 months. Lawmakers say expanding the pool of qualified appraisers could help shorten transaction timelines and improve access in rural and underserved markets.
The proposal would also cap certain closing costs for veterans at 1.5% and align seller concession limits more closely with FHA loan standards. In addition, the legislation directs the VA to review and modernize appraisal and property requirement standards that critics say can unnecessarily complicate transactions.
“Veterans earned these benefits through their service, and we should ensure the program works efficiently in today’s housing market,” Ciscomani said in announcing the legislation.
The VA loan program remains one of the nation’s most widely used home financing tools for veterans and active-duty military personnel, offering benefits that often include zero-down-payment requirements and competitive interest rates.
Industry professionals have increasingly pointed to appraisal delays and outdated underwriting standards as factors discouraging sellers from accepting VA-backed offers, particularly in fast-moving residential markets.
Supporters of the bill say the reforms could help level the playing field for veteran homebuyers while improving overall transaction efficiency for lenders, brokers, and sellers.
The bipartisan legislation was introduced in the U.S. House by Ciscomani and Representative Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin.