Tom Pessemier and The Pessemier Mortgage Team have built their reputation on expertise, responsiveness, and genuine care for military homebuyers and the agents who serve them. If you're a successful Realtor® who works with VA buyers - or wants to start - you deserve a lender who not only knows the VA loan program inside and out, but who can also move as quickly and creatively as you do. Here's a detailed FAQ built for well-respected, selective agents who want to close more deals and give their military clients the best possible experience.
Why should I partner with a VA mortgage broker instead of a direct lender or big bank?
A broker like The Pessemier Mortgage Team acts as your personal mortgage strategist. Unlike a single lender with one set of rates and guidelines, we shop your clients' scenarios across hundreds of top VA-approved lenders with one loan application. This means your clients get access to ultra-competitive rates and fees, a wider menu of programs (including higher loan limits [as high as $5M with no down payment, lower credit scores [down to 500 in some cases], unique income structures, construction and renovation loans), and more flexibility without overlays or in some cases with exceptions to get outside the standard guidelines. For you, this translates into more approvals, smoother deals, and less time chasing status updates. Our multi-lender reach is backed by hands-on support - you work with our team directly, not a call center.
What makes VA financing different from conventional or FHA, and why does it matter for my buyers?
VA loans are tailored for those who have served our country, with no minimum down payment, no monthly mortgage insurance, and flexible credit standards. However, they come with some unique appraisal and eligibility requirements. Many lenders misunderstand or mishandle VA guidelines, causing delays or missed opportunities. And many lenders also have "overlays" (more restrictive rules than the VA's actual guidelines…yes, this is a big issue that many people don't know about). With over two decades specializing in VA lending, we anticipate and solve the common (and not-so-common) challenges, from COE (VA Certificate of Eligibility) snags to appraisal reconsiderations. Our deep VA knowledge helps your buyers win more offers and reach the closing table faster.
How do you handle pre-approvals, and how reliable are they for writing offers?
A true pre-approval is more than a quick online form. Our process includes a thorough review of income, assets, service eligibility, and credit. We verify details up front, so you can write offers with confidence that our pre-approval will stand up to scrutiny. When timelines are tight, we move quickly - and keep you in the loop with proactive updates. Agents tell us our pre-approvals hold weight with listing agents, helping your clients compete, especially in fast-moving markets. We're always happy to speak with listing agents at time of offer as well.
How fast can you close a VA loan, and how do you keep transactions on track?
With the right documentation and a clear file, VA loans often close in as little as 18 - 25 days. As a broker, we match each file to the lender with the most efficient underwriting for that scenario, which helps avoid the "one size fits all" delays that can be common at banks and credit unions. We communicate early and often about appraisal status, conditional approvals, and any hurdles. If surprises crop up, we tackle them head-on and keep everyone informed, so you're never left wondering where things stand.
Can you work with buyers in multiple states? How does that help my referral network?
As of February 2026, Tom Pessemier is personally licensed in 20 states and counting. And we have a great in-house partner who holds licenses throughout the rest of the country, except New York. This means you can refer clients confidently, knowing we can handle their purchase whether they're PCS'ing across the country or buying a property across town. Agents who build cross-state referral networks tell us they value having a single, trusted VA resource they can rely on no matter where their clients move.
What kind of VA loan scenarios can you handle? Do you work with lower credit, recent PCS moves, or unique income situations? Military life doesn't always fit in a neat box. We routinely close VA loans for buyers with limited credit history, non-traditional income, or recent job changes due to PCS orders or other circumstances. As the #1 VA mortgage broker in the U.S., we find lenders who understand these nuances and look for solutions, not reasons to say no. Bring us your trickiest VA deals - we thrive on helping clients that others can't.
How do you support agents during the transaction? What can I expect in terms of communication?
We see ourselves as your partner. Expect prompt responses (calls, texts, or emails), regular updates at every milestone, and zero surprises at closing. If an issue pops up, you'll hear from us first - with options and next steps, not excuses. Many of our agent partners say we've become their "go-to" for VA because our service makes their jobs easier and protects their clients and their reputations.
How do your rates and fees compare to other VA lenders?
As a broker, we access wholesale rates from multiple VA lenders in real time, often beating direct lenders and banks. We also advocate for fair, transparent fee structures and can explore lender-paid credits to reduce your clients' out-of-pocket costs. We review all numbers with your clients early in the process, so there are no surprises at the closing table. This helps you stand out as a Realtor who brings real value.
What's the best way to connect and discuss how you can help my clients and my business?
We welcome your calls, texts, and emails, whether you have a quick scenario or want to discuss a strategic partnership. Schedule a call with Tom Pessemier or email the team directly to talk through your needs. We're here to help you close more VA deals, serve your military clients at the highest level, and build a referral partnership you can trust.
Phone: 804-806-3465 (call or text)
Email: team@tompessemier.com
Let's make your next VA deal the smoothest yet - and turn your military clients into lifelong fans.
