7 Simple Steps to Getting a VLB Land Loan in Texas

by Tre Serrano

If you are a veteran or active-duty service member considering land ownership in Texas, the Veterans Land Board (VLB) Land Loan Program may be one of the most valuable tools available to you. With low interest rates, flexible terms, and the opportunity to purchase land across the state, this benefit is designed to support long-term stability and growth for those who have served.

At Cavalry Realty Group, we are proud to serve fellow veterans and first responders. This guide outlines the seven key steps involved in securing a VLB land loan, from initial preparation to closing.

Step 1: Understand the Program Requirements

Begin by reviewing the VLB’s official land loan terms and conditions. This helps set expectations and ensures you are well-informed before starting the process. A few important program guidelines include:

The property must be at least one acre in size
It cannot be located in a flood zone
A minimum five percent down payment is required
The maximum loan amount is currently $150,000 For full details, visit the official VLB site at vlb.texas.gov (https://vlb.texas.gov/loans/land-loans/index.html) a507ad60-9505-4ee3-adae-cf7f5d7… .

Step 2: Confirm Your Eligibility

To apply, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:

Legal residency in the state of Texas
Honorable military discharge (for veterans)
Completion of the minimum required service period
Status as a veteran, active-duty service member, member of the National Guard, or reservist If you are unsure about your qualifications, our team is available to help you verify your eligibility.

Step 3: Identify a Property That Qualifies

You can purchase any qualifying piece of land in Texas, either on your own or from the list of properties available directly through the VLB. Whether you're buying in the Hill Country, the outskirts of San Antonio, or rural South Texas, it is important to ensure that the property meets the VLB's acreage and location guidelines.

We can help you evaluate potential properties to avoid setbacks later in the process.

Step 4: Get Pre-Qualified

Pre-qualification strengthens your position as a buyer and helps set your budget early in the process. To begin, you will need to submit a formal loan application and provide some basic financial documentation. We work closely with veteran-friendly lenders and can guide you through this step with confidence.

Step 5: Gather Financial Documentation

To complete your loan application, collect the following documents:

Bank statements from the past 30 days
Recent pay stubs or proof of income
Tax returns from the last two years
A copy of your DD214 (Member 4)
Additional documentation if you are self-employed, such as a profit and loss statement

Having these documents ready in advance can help avoid delays during underwriting.

Step 6: Complete Required Paperwork and Order a Survey

Next, your loan processor will guide you through the necessary forms and documentation, including:

A completed Farm and Ranch contract
Field notes and a property survey that meet VLB standards

Surveys are especially important, and not all surveyors meet VLB criteria. We regularly coordinate with experienced professionals to ensure every requirement is met accurately and on time.

Step 7: Finalize Financing and Close on the Property

Once your application is approved, the survey is completed, and your down payment is secured, you will schedule your closing. At that point, you will officially become a landowner with full VLB financing in place.

This final step is often faster than expected when the rest of the process is well-organized. Work with a Team That Knows the Process At Cavalry Realty Group, we take pride in serving those who have served. Our team understands the unique benefits available through the Veterans Land Board and helps clients every day with the details of qualifying land, survey coordination, and lender communication.

If you are thinking about buying land using your VLB benefits, we are here to guide you from start to finish.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Reach out to our team today to start the conversation. Whether you're still exploring or ready to move forward, we are here to support you every step of the way.

📬Brought to you by TheCavalryGroup.com Veteran owned. First responder operated. Serving Texas veterans with pride.