The FHA package
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and made by approved lenders. The package often includes the standard note and mortgage plus an addendum or rider, a notice about the borrower's responsibilities, and statements about the property and occupancy.
The borrower signs forms in which they certify facts about their intent to occupy the home and the financing, so accuracy matters.
The VA package
VA loans, guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, include forms confirming the borrower's eligibility, loan analysis, and certifications about occupancy and the loan's terms. Some forms ask the veteran to affirm that they understand the loan is a debt that must be repaid.
The lender processes eligibility. The signing agent only handles signatures and notarial acts.
Occupancy and primary residence
Both programs generally require that the borrower occupy the home as a primary residence within a set period after closing. The affidavit states this plainly. Do not sign it if your plans differ, and speak to the lender instead.
Misstating occupancy on a federal program loan can have serious consequences.
Additional signers and attachments
A non-borrowing spouse may need to sign certain documents depending on state law and lender policy. Appraisal notices, amendatory clauses, and borrower acknowledgments appear in the file. Initial each place the lender requires.
Dates must be completed as instructed. An incorrectly dated certification may require re-signing.
Tips for the day
Read the Closing Disclosure for mortgage insurance premiums on FHA loans and funding fee treatment on VA loans, then ask the lender if numbers differ from expectations. Bring military or other IDs only if the lender asks, and always bring a valid government photo ID. A mobile appointment through a signing agent like MCC Solutions can be convenient for service members with busy schedules.
What to do when a page confuses you and after closing
Government loan forms use dense language. If a certification is unclear, stop and ask the loan officer to explain it before signing. Do not rely on the notary, who is not permitted to interpret loan programs. A short call can save an application from a mistake.
Ask for a plain-language summary in writing if available.
The lender sends the loan to be insured or backed by the program, and you receive a servicer. Keep copies of every program-specific form. Review the first statement to see mortgage insurance or other charges. If you refinance or sell later, these records help your next lender and title company understand the history.
Do not let the number of forms make you feel rushed. Government-backed loans often come with protections and obligations that you will live with for years, so reading them is worth the time. Mark pages with questions, and call the loan officer before you sign. If you are a veteran, a veterans' benefits counselor can also help explain program rules at no cost.
Common questions
Does the notary verify my VA eligibility?
No. Eligibility is handled by the lender and the VA. The notary verifies identity.
Why are there so many certifications?
Government programs rely on borrowers' statements, so they collect them in writing. Each one should be read before signing.
Can I sign a VA loan with a power of attorney?
Possibly, but lenders and the program have conditions. Ask your lender before planning on it.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change; check with the office involved or an attorney for your situation.