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The VA Loan Appraisal Process — What to Expect

Nervous About the VA Appraisal? Here's What to Know

📍 Introduction

The VA appraisal is one of the few things that can delay or derail your loan — but it doesn’t have to be scary. In fact, the VA appraisal is designed to protect you, not make your life harder.

In this post, we break down what VA appraisers are looking for, how to prepare, and what to do if the home doesn’t meet the mark.

🧾 What Is a VA Appraisal?

The VA appraisal is a mandatory part of the VA loan process. A licensed VA appraiser:

  • Determines the property’s value (to ensure the loan is justified)

  • Inspects for Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)

  • Ensures the home is safe, sanitary, and structurally sound

It’s not the same as a home inspection — but it does catch major issues.

🛑 What Can Cause a VA Appraisal to Fail?

Common red flags include:

  • Peeling lead-based paint (especially pre-1978 homes)

  • Broken or unsafe stairs, decks, or railings

  • Roof issues or visible leaks

  • Non-functioning heating systems

  • Termite or pest damage (in required areas)

The appraiser may require repairs before approval.

💡 What If the Home Doesn’t Appraise?

If the value comes in low:

  • You can renegotiate the price with the seller

  • You can pay the difference out-of-pocket

  • You can appeal the appraisal with comps (called a Reconsideration of Value)

  • Or walk away with no penalty

✅ Tips for a Smooth VA Appraisal

  • Work with an agent familiar with VA property standards

  • Get pre-appraisal estimates on homes that look borderline

  • Look for homes built after 1990 or recently updated

  • Avoid major fixer-uppers unless seller agrees to repairs

💬 Final Thought

Don’t let the VA appraisal process intimidate you. With the right agent and a little planning, it’s just one more step on the path to owning your home — and protecting your future equity.

📞 Want to make sure your target homes will pass the VA appraisal? We’ll help screen listings and flag potential issues early. 👉 Request VA Appraisal-Ready Homes Or reply with your ZIP code — we’ll tailor a list for you.

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