I’ve run into this exact issue more than once. The VA appraiser flagged a loose outlet cover on one property, but didn’t even mention the ancient HVAC system that ended up costing me a small fortune to replace. The “minimum property requirements” are really just that—minimum. I always tell folks, don’t skip a full inspection just because the VA has their checklist. Curious—has anyone ever had the VA appraiser actually catch something big, or is it usually just cosmetic stuff?
Honestly, I’ve never seen a VA appraiser catch anything major either. It’s always the little stuff—peeling paint, missing handrails, that kind of thing. Meanwhile, the big-ticket items like roofs or HVAC seem to fly under the radar unless they’re obviously falling apart. I get why they have to check the basics, but it’s wild how much can slip through. Full inspection is a must, no matter what the VA checklist says... learned that the hard way too.
Yeah, I’ve seen the same thing—VA appraisers are laser-focused on those “minimum property requirements,” but it’s usually cosmetic stuff or safety basics. I once had a buyer shocked when the appraiser flagged chipped paint but totally missed an ancient water heater that was barely hanging on. It’s wild how much can get overlooked if you’re just relying on that VA checklist. Ever notice how they almost never check the attic unless there’s a visible problem? Full home inspection is just non-negotiable in my book, even if the VA doesn’t technically require it.
VA loans don’t actually require a full home inspection—just the VA appraisal, which is mostly about making sure the property meets those Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). The appraiser isn’t digging deep like a home inspector would. I always tell clients: treat the VA appraisal as a baseline, not a green light. If you skip a separate inspection, you’re rolling the dice on hidden issues... and that can get expensive fast. Even if the VA doesn’t demand it, a thorough inspection is just smart money management.
I’d add that when I refinanced with a VA loan last year, the appraisal felt pretty surface-level. They checked for basic stuff—like working heat, safe stairs, no exposed wiring—but didn’t catch things like a leaky shower pan or old plumbing. I ended up doing my own inspection anyway, just for peace of mind. Curious if anyone’s ever run into issues after relying only on the VA appraisal? Seems like skipping a full inspection could backfire, but maybe I’m just overly cautious...