How the funding fee is modeled
The rate depends on whether this is first or subsequent use and whether the down payment is below 5%, at least 5%, or at least 10%. An eligible exemption makes the modeled fee zero.
Worked example
On a $400,000 first-use purchase with no down payment and no exemption, the 2.15% funding fee is $8,600. Financing it raises the modeled principal to $408,600.