Thank You, Veterans

Let’s See How Much Home We Can Get You!

VA Loans are some of the most impactful and flexible lending options on the market. Rather than issue loans, the VA instead pledges to repay about a quarter of every loan it guarantees in the unlikely event the borrower defaults. That guarantee gives VA-approved lenders greater protection when lending to military borrowers and often leads to highly competitive rates and terms for qualified veterans.

Buying in La Plata County? Read my local guide to VA home loans, or learn more about working with a Durango mortgage broker.

The bells and whistles:

  • Flexible down payment options for eligible borrowers
  • Competitive interest rates that are routinely lower than conventional rates
  • No prepayment penalties
  • Higher allowable debt-to-income ratios than for many other loans
  • Streamlined refinancing loans that require no additional underwriting
Benefits of VA Loans

One of the biggest benefits of a VA loan is how little cash it can take to buy a home: VA loans offer down payment flexibility for eligible borrowers. They also come with more flexible underwriting standards and no monthly private mortgage insurance (PMI). If you think you may qualify, give me a call at 970-828-1610 to talk through your options.

PURCHASE A HOME PURCHASE A HOME
REFINANCE MORTGAGE REFINANCE MORTGAGE
REFINANCE WITH CASH-OUT REFINANCE WITH CASH-OUT

VA home loans in Durango and Southwest Colorado

I’m Peter Pritchard, a Durango mortgage broker for 28 years. I help veterans, service members and eligible surviving spouses buy and refinance homes in Durango, Bayfield, Ignacio, Pagosa Springs, Cortez and across the Four Corners.

Who can use a VA loan

  • Veterans who meet VA service requirements
  • Active-duty service members
  • National Guard and Reserve members who meet service requirements
  • Some surviving spouses

See if you qualify: take the 30-second VA eligibility check →

You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). In most cases I can request it for you online in minutes.

What makes VA loans different

  • Down payment flexibility for eligible borrowers with full entitlement, and no VA loan limit with full entitlement
  • No monthly mortgage insurance
  • VA funding fee: a one-time fee that can usually be financed into the loan. Veterans receiving VA disability compensation are generally exempt.
  • Primary residence only: VA loans aren’t for second homes or rentals, but you can buy a 2-4 unit property if you live in one of the units.
  • Refinance options: the VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL, or “streamline”) and VA cash-out refinances

Local things I help you plan for

  • VA appraisal standards: VA appraisers check that a home is safe and sound. Rural properties with wells, septic systems or private roads may need extra items, such as a water test or a road maintenance agreement.
  • Condos: the condo project generally needs VA approval. I check this before you make an offer.
  • Competitive offers: a strong pre-approval and a lender that closes on time help VA offers compete in Durango’s market.

Thank you for your service. Call or text me at 970-828-1610, visit 1099 Main Avenue, Suite 305 in Durango, or send me a message.

Peter Pritchard NMLS #404172 | Animas Mountain Mortgage Inc. NMLS #1742747 | Equal Housing Opportunity. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. All loans subject to credit approval, eligibility and property requirements.

Customer Love

Wes Weichert

April 28, 2026
Peter was fantastic to work with and made the home buying process far less stressful than I expected. He was extremely responsive, always took the time to explain things clearly, and kept everything moving forward. As a first-time homebuyer I really appreciated how patient and knowledgeable he was. Highly recommend working with him.

Michelle Blades

April 18, 2026
Our overall experience was incredible. Could not have asked for a better lender (Peter). From start to finish it took 10 days. Thank you!!

Deborah Moore

April 10, 2026
Peter went above and beyond what I thought was gonna happen. In the past it was always so hard to get in touch with the finance people. He was always available no matter week day or weekend and always took the time to explain everything, and being 78 years old that was very much appreciated. I would highly recommend Peter Pritchard for anyone buying a house.

Joseph Williams

November 1, 2025
Peter was the best! Quick and painless.

Dianne Ray

October 25, 2025
Peter was great to work with. He kept things moving and always kept us informed. He worked with our schedule and always made it work. We would definitely work with Peter again!

Karen Boush

October 11, 2025
I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with Peter Pritchard at Animas Mountain Mortgage to finance my new home in La Plata County. When I started looking for a new home, I knew very little about the process of taking out a mortgage, but Peter helped me evaluate my options and guided me through the process so that my loan was competitive and right for my financial situation. He's extremely knowledgeable, responsive, and patient, and I highly recommend him as someone you can trust and count on to help you as he helped me!

Vaughn Johnson

August 27, 2025
First rate experience with friendly communication, prompt and accurate responses to questions, and extra mile patience. Greatly appreciate the opportunity to work with Peter and Animas Mountain Mortage!

Matthew Weideman

August 1, 2025
Peter worked with us every step of the way and was incredibly helpful! Thanks for helping us get a great house!

Emily Grant

July 8, 2025
As a realtor, I’ve worked with many lenders, and Peter consistently delivers. He’s responsive, knowledgeable, and truly invested in helping my clients reach their financing goals. Always a smooth process from pre-approval to closing. Highly recommend!

Brigitte Holiday

June 17, 2025
I had a wonderful experience working with Peter at Animas Mortgage. From our very first meeting, he was professional, helpful, and genuinely kind. He kept in touch with me throughout the entire process and made it easy to reach him in multiple ways. Peter’s knowledge and guidance helped me make the best decisions for my situation. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a trustworthy and supportive mortgage broker.

Find The Right Home For Your Budget

Get Pre-Qualified! Call Us! 970-828-1610 Call Us! 970-828-1610