VA Form 26-8641a: Manufactured Home Loan Computation Guide

VA Form 26-8641a: Manufactured Home Loan Computation Guide – Veterans seeking to finance a manufactured home through a VA loan often encounter specific documentation requirements. VA Form 26-8641a, titled Computation of Loan Amount for Manufactured Home Unit, is a key form used by lenders to ensure compliance with VA regulations for these unique properties.

This article explains the form’s purpose, when it’s required, how to complete it, eligibility for VA manufactured home loans, and provides direct access to official resources.

What Is VA Form 26-8641a?

VA Form 26-8641a calculates the maximum allowable loan amount for purchasing a new or used manufactured home unit under the VA Home Loan Guaranty program. It complies with regulations such as 38 CFR 36.4204(c) and helps verify that the loan does not exceed statutory limits based on costs, invoice prices, and permissible fees.

The form is revised as of October 2007 and remains the current version. It is primarily completed by lenders or authorized officials in coordination with dealers and veterans.

Download the official form here:
Download VA Form 26-8641a (PDF)

Why Is This Form Important for VA Manufactured Home Loans?

VA loans for manufactured homes have stricter rules than standard site-built homes. The form ensures the loan amount aligns with:

  • Manufacturer’s invoice costs (for new units)
  • Purchase price or reasonable value (for used units)
  • Allowable add-ons like transportation, setup, taxes, insurance, and the VA funding fee

It prevents over-financing and protects both the veteran and the VA guaranty. Lenders submit this form as part of the loan package for manufactured home transactions.

Eligibility Requirements for VA Manufactured Home Financing

To use a VA loan for a manufactured home, the property must meet these key criteria (as of 2026):

  • Built on or after June 15, 1976 — Must comply with HUD Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards (evidenced by HUD “red tag” certification label and data plate).
  • Permanently affixed to a foundation that meets VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) and local codes. Wheels, axles, and hitch must be removed.
  • Titled as real property (not personal property or vehicle title) under state law.
  • Minimum size — Typically 400 sq ft for single-wide and 700 sq ft for multi-wide units.
  • Owned land — VA loans generally require the veteran to own the land (not leased park space).
  • Veteran must have a valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and meet standard VA credit, income, and occupancy requirements.

Note: Lender policies may impose additional overlays. Not all lenders offer manufactured home loans due to complexity.

Key Sections of VA Form 26-8641a Explained

The form is divided into clear sections:

Section I – Cost of New Manufactured Home Unit

  • Starts with the manufacturer’s invoice cost.
  • Subtracts costs of components removed by the dealer.
  • Adds dealer-installed components (supported by invoices).
  • Calculates adjusted cost and applies a 125% multiplier for the maximum new unit loan.

Section II – Cost of Used Manufactured Home Unit

  • Compares purchase price vs. reasonable value (from appraisal).
  • Uses the lesser of the two for the base loan amount.

Section III – Permissible Fees and Charges

  • Includes freight/transportation, setup charges (capped), hazard insurance, taxes, recordation fees, VA funding fee, etc.

Section IV – Maximum Loan Amount

  • For new units: Sum of adjusted unit amount + fees, not exceeding the lesser of 145% of invoice or 95% of purchase price.
  • For used units: Adjusted amount + fees.
  • Proposed loan amount if lower.

Lenders and dealers must provide supporting documentation like invoices, warranties, and placement certificates.

Step-by-Step Process for Veterans

  1. Obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) using VA Form 26-1880.
  2. Work with a VA-approved lender experienced in manufactured homes.
  3. Select a qualifying manufactured home and secure necessary inspections/foundation certifications.
  4. Provide documentation to the lender (invoices, contracts, etc.).
  5. The lender completes VA Form 26-8641a along with other forms like VA Form 26-8149 (Report of Automatic Manufactured Home Loan).
  6. Proceed to appraisal, underwriting, and closing.

Common Challenges and Tips

  • Foundation and Titling Issues — Many deals fall through here. Hire a licensed professional engineer for certification early.
  • Appraisal — Must meet VA MPRs; comparables can be limited in rural areas.
  • Loan Terms — Often 30 years for qualifying double-wide homes on owned land with permanent foundations, though shorter terms may apply in some cases.
  • Funding Fee — Applies as with other VA loans; can be financed.
  • Shop lenders carefully — Experience with manufactured homes varies significantly.

Always verify current guidelines directly with the VA or your lender, as policies can evolve.

Additional Resources

Ready to proceed? Contact a VA-specialized lender and download the form to get started on your manufactured home purchase today. Veterans deserve the benefits of homeownership — this form is one important step in the process.