Your Trusted

Real Estate Expert Karen Rivard

First-Time Buyer Specialist | Strategic Negotiation

With 14 years on The Damon Home Team and 20 years in real estate, I specialize in helping first-time home buyers and sellers navigate the real estate process with confidence. Licensed in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts, my goal is to make your experience stress-free by providing expert guidance, market insights, and strong negotiation strategies.

My Mission: To exceed your expectations by making real estate transactions smooth, stress-free, and successful.

Call Karen603-867-5883

Text Karen603-867-5883

Schedule A Consultation

What Sets Karen Apart?

First Time Buyer Guidance

Simplifying your first home purchase with patient support and clear, confident guidance.

Educator at Heart

Ensuring clients understand every step so they can make confident decisions

Local Market Knowledge

Using deep local expertise to find your ideal home and ensure smart buying or selling decisions.

Care and Compassion

Providing empathetic guidance and genuine care through the emotional aspects of real estate.

Start Your Home Search

Why Work With Me?

"Karen made the home buying and selling process so easy! She truly cared about our goals and guided us every step of the way." - Alexis | Homeowner

Client-Centered Approach: I listen, strategize, and act with your best interests in mind.

Expert Market Knowledge: I research the market and position your home or offer for success.

Comprehensive Support: From staging to closing, I manage every detail to make the process seamless.

Strong Negotiation Skills: I work tirelessly to get you the best deal possible.

Schedule A Consultation

Client Success Stories

"Karen was incredible in helping us buy our first home. She explained everything, negotiated on our behalf, and made the process stress-free!"

"Her knowledge and experience were invaluable! Karen helped us stage and sell our home quickly for a fantastic price."

Market Insights & Resources

Stay ahead with expert tips and market updates tailored for first-time buyers and sellers.

5 Myths About VA Loans Every New Hampshire Veteran Should Know

NH Veterans

August 12, 2025•3 min read

5 Myths About VA Loans Every New Hampshire Veteran Should Know

Why VA Loan Myths Can Cost Veterans Money

VA loans are one of the most powerful benefits available to veterans and military families. Yet, misinformation keeps many from using them. Some veterans think they need perfect credit, others believe VA loans are slower or harder to close. These myths can lead to missed opportunities and unnecessary costs.

At Damon Home Team, we believe knowledge is power. Let’s bust five of the most common VA loan myths so you can move forward with confidence.

Myth 1: You Can Only Use the VA Loan Once

The Truth: You can use your VA loan benefit multiple times throughout your life. As long as you restore entitlement after paying off a VA loan (or selling a VA-financed home), you can use it again.

Myth 2: VA Loans Take Too Long to Close

The Truth: VA loans used to have a reputation for delays, but today they close in the same timeframe as conventional loans. With Damon Home Team and our trusted VA lenders, closing typically happens in 30–45 days, which is standard for the New Hampshire market.

Myth 3: VA Loans Are Only for First-Time Buyers

The Truth: VA loans aren’t limited to first-time homebuyers. Whether this is your first or fifth home, your VA benefit applies as long as you’re eligible and the property meets requirements.

Myth 4: You Can’t Buy a Nice Home with a VA Loan

The Truth: VA loans aren’t limited to starter homes or fixer-uppers. In New Hampshire, VA loans are used to purchase homes at a wide range of price points, including modern builds, multi-family homes (if you live in one unit), and rural properties with acreage.

Myth 5: You Always Pay Higher Fees with a VA Loan

The Truth: While VA loans include a funding fee, many veterans qualify for a reduced fee or exemption (especially those with service-connected disabilities). Plus, the absence of PMI (private mortgage insurance) makes VA loans significantly more affordable than FHA or conventional loans.

VA Loan Myths in the New Hampshire Market

Here in NH, sellers and agents are very familiar with VA loans. In competitive areas like Manchester, Nashua, and Portsmouth, VA buyers are closing successfully every day. Don’t let misconceptions hold you back — your benefit is designed to help you, not hinder you.

How Damon Home Team Helps Veterans Cut Through the Noise

We provide:

Clear education about what VA loans can and can’t do.
Local expertise so you understand how VA loans work in New Hampshire’s market.
Strong negotiation to make your VA-backed offer stand out.

We’ve helped countless veterans and military families debunk myths and confidently buy their homes.

Ready to Put VA Loan Myths to Rest?

Don’t let misinformation stop you from using one of your most valuable benefits. Damon Home Team is here to guide you through the process and make your homeownership dream a reality.

Your service has earned you this benefit. Now it’s time to use it wisely.

VA loan mythsVA loan misconceptionsVA loan truthVA loan facts NHNew Hampshire VA loan guideVeterans homebuyers NHPCS relocation NHDamon Home Team veterans

The Damon Home Team

The Damon Home Team is a top-performing real estate group specializing in buying, selling, and relocation services throughout New Hampshire. With a commitment to expert guidance, market-driven strategies, and a client-first approach, we help homeowners maximize their home’s value and buyers find their perfect property. Whether you’re looking for a fast cash sale, a seamless move, or expert investment advice, our team delivers results with integrity and professionalism.

Back to Blog