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    VA Loan Guide

    VA Loan Appraisal Process & Guidelines

    Understand VA minimum property requirements, the appraisal process, and how to prepare for your VA home inspection
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    Overview

    What is a VA Appraisal?

    A VA appraisal is required for all VA-backed home loans. Unlike a standard appraisal that only determines market value, a VA appraisal also ensures the property meets Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) for safety, soundness, and sanitation. It is one step in the VA loan process after you lock terms with your VA lender.

    The VA appraisal protects both you and the lender by ensuring the home is safe, habitable, and worth the purchase price. Learn more about VA loan requirements.

    VA Appraisal Cost

    $500-$800 depending on location and property size. Paid by buyer but can be covered by seller concessions.

    Timeline

    7-10 days from inspection to report. Rush orders available in some areas for additional fee.

    Requirements

    VA Minimum Property Requirements

    The VA has established MPRs to ensure homes are safe, sanitary, and structurally sound.

    Safety & Structural Integrity

    • Roof must be sound with at least 2 years remaining life
    • Foundation must be stable and free from major defects
    • No exposed wiring or fire hazards
    • Safe access to and from the property
    • Adequate structural support throughout

    Health & Sanitation

    • Functional heating system (must heat to 50°F minimum)
    • Safe, potable water supply
    • Adequate sewage disposal system
    • No lead-based paint hazards
    • No presence of mold or toxic substances

    Utilities & Systems

    • Working electrical system meeting local codes
    • Functional plumbing (hot and cold water)
    • Operational HVAC systems
    • Proper ventilation in all rooms
    • No safety issues with gas lines or appliances

    The VA Appraisal Process

    1

    Order Appraisal

    Lender orders VA appraisal once you're under contract. VA-approved appraiser is assigned.

    2

    Property Inspection

    Appraiser visits property to assess condition, measure square footage, and check for MPR compliance.

    3

    Market Analysis

    Appraiser compares property to recent sales of similar homes to determine fair market value.

    4

    Appraisal Report

    Report is submitted to VA for review, typically within 7-10 days of inspection.

    5

    Review & Conditions

    Lender reviews report. If repairs needed, seller must complete them before closing or agree to escrow funds.

    Common Issues

    Common VA Appraisal Issues & Solutions

    Peeling Paint (Built Pre-1978)

    Solution: Test for lead and remediate if necessary

    Roof Damage or Wear

    Solution: Repair or replace roof if less than 2 years life remaining

    Water Damage or Moisture Issues

    Solution: Fix source of moisture, repair damage, test for mold

    Non-Functional Systems

    Solution: Repair or replace HVAC, plumbing, or electrical issues

    Termite Damage (Required Inspection in Some States)

    Solution: Treat infestation and repair structural damage

    Missing Handrails or Safety Hazards

    Solution: Install proper railings on stairs and elevated areas

    Ready to Start Your VA Loan Application?

    Our team will guide you through the appraisal process and help you prepare

    FAQs

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Quick Answer

    A VA appraisal establishes the home's fair market value and confirms it meets the VA's Minimum Property Requirements for safety, sanitation, and structural soundness. It is ordered by the lender through the VA portal, usually takes 7-10 business days in the San Antonio market, and is not the same as a home inspection.

    A VA-assigned appraiser determines the property's value and verifies it meets Minimum Property Requirements: safe water and sewer, working heat and electrical, a sound roof, no exposed hazards, and adequate living space.

    Typically 7-10 business days in the San Antonio area, depending on appraiser availability. VA publishes timeliness standards by region.

    You can renegotiate the price with the seller, pay the difference in cash, request a Reconsideration of Value with supporting comparable sales, or cancel under the VA amendatory clause without losing your earnest money.

    No. The appraisal protects the lender and the VA by confirming value and basic habitability. A home inspection is optional but strongly recommended and examines HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and roof condition in detail.

    The buyer usually pays the appraisal fee up front, though it can be reimbursed through seller concessions or a lender credit at closing.

    You have four options: renegotiate the price with the seller, request a Reconsideration of Value with better comparable sales, pay the difference in cash, or exercise the VA amendatory clause and cancel without losing earnest money.

    Tidewater is a notice the appraiser issues when the value is likely to come in below the contract price. It gives the lender and agents a short window, typically two business days, to submit additional comparable sales before the report is finalized.

    Most VA appraisals in the San Antonio market are completed within about seven to ten days of assignment. We order the appraisal the day the contract is executed so it never becomes the reason a PCS closing slips.
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    Reviewed by Jonathan Mullins, Founder & Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #94015Last updated