The biggest VA loan mistakes usually aren't "VA problems"—they're planning problems: weak pre-approval, the wrong lender, unrealistic pricing, and ignoring the VA appraisal/repair reality. In Woodbridge and Fairfax, these mistakes can cost you the home (or cost you weeks of delay) even if you're fully eligible.

For most buyers in Woodbridge, VA, move-in ready is the safer choice when you need a predictable timeline and you don’t have a big cash cushion after closing. A fixer-upper can make sense when the price discount is real, you have reserves for surprises, and you can handle delays. The decision comes down to all-in cost + timeline risk, not just the list