Veterans, service members, military families and real estate professionals can join a free online discussion Nov. 17 about VA home loan benefits and navigating the homebuying process.
The New York State Department of Veterans' Services will hold the Veterans Month edition of its Chat & Chew series, "Veterans Mean Business," from 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesday via Webex, according to a news release.
Registration is open for the one-hour program, titled "Veterans Mean Business! A Primer for Real Estate Professionals, Veterans, Service Members & Military Families." Participants can register through the state's Webex event page at no cost.
Mortgage professionals to address common misconceptions
The discussion will explain the VA home loan benefit, address misunderstandings and offer practical guidance for eligible homebuyers. Real estate professionals are also invited to learn more about VA financing and how to assist military families through the buying process.
Lessie Branch, the department's special assistant for community engagement and a Navy veteran, will moderate. The panel will feature Michelle Viola-Straight, executive director of military home loan benefits at ClearPath Mortgage Solutions, and Leslie Curry, mortgage sales manager and assistant vice president at Citizens Home Mortgage.
Branch said the series gives veterans and military families a place to ask questions, connect with professionals and gain practical information. She said the session also aims to strengthen understanding among the real estate professionals who serve them.
Viola-Straight said misconceptions can keep eligible veterans and service members from taking full advantage of the benefit. The goal, she said, is for participants to better understand how it works and feel more confident exploring homeownership options.
Curry said improving knowledge of VA financing can help both buyers and the professionals assisting them navigate the process more smoothly.
Benefits assistance beyond the event
Veterans' Services Commissioner Viviana DeCohen, a Marine Corps veteran, said Veterans Month should include helping people access benefits they have earned. She described homeownership as a potential source of stability and financial security for military families.
New Yorkers seeking help with veterans benefits can contact the department at 888-838-7697 or visit veterans.ny.gov to arrange an in-person or virtual meeting with an accredited veterans benefits adviser.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.
