Looking for a home can be an exciting but also stressful time. For military servicemembers and their families, the process should start with finding a military-friendly agent, says realtor Amy Vander Linden.

“They should understand what BAH means and the ins and outs and challenges of a VA loan,” she explains.

DoD's basic allowance for housing (BAH) provides housing compensation to those in the military for off-base living, while the VA home loan program provides veterans with a federally guaranteed home mortgage with no down payment. (Read about the ins and the outs of the VA home loan program.)

Finding an agent with Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification, means the realtor has the experience and knowledge to help their military clients take advantage of benefits and support to find suitable housing to meet their needs.

For example, Vander Linden, who is MRP certified, says even in a competitive market, a VA loan might not carry as much weight with a seller.

“Your agent should have other ways to make your offer stand out,” she says.

When planning to buy a home, Vander Linden suggests homebuyers begin by doing their own research on VA loans and understanding the fees they will have to pay apart from their mortgage payment.

“Did you know the VA loan is 100-percent financing - requires no down payment - but there is a 'funding fee' you need to pay?” Vander Linden points out. “The funding fee can also be financed. Did you know you can use your VA loan more than once? These are things VA buyers should absolutely know.”

She says in addition to a funding fee, homebuyers should be prepared to pay closing costs. Closing costs are what homebuyers pay their lender and title company for their work.

“This includes the appraisal, but this does not include your home inspection fee,” she says. “Ask your agent for a recommended inspector - thorough and not overpriced.”