Yeah, this lines up with what I’ve seen over the years. The VA appraisal just checks the basics—heat, water, roof, that kind of stuff. It’s not a deep dive. I’ve bought properties where the VA appraiser missed things like ancient wiring or slow leaks. That’s why I always budget for a real inspection, even if it’s not required. Skipping it can cost you way more in the long run. Anyone else ever notice how the VA seems to care more about peeling paint than actual functional issues? Makes me shake my head sometimes...
Yeah, the VA appraisal is really just a surface-level check. It’s not a substitute for a full inspection, and honestly, I’ve seen some pretty questionable stuff get overlooked. Here’s how I usually break it down:
- The VA doesn’t *require* a home inspection, just their own appraisal. That appraisal is mainly about making sure the place meets their “Minimum Property Requirements” (MPRs)—stuff like safe heat, running water, no exposed wiring, and yeah, no peeling paint (especially if it’s an older house and could be lead-based).
- They’re weirdly strict about cosmetic stuff sometimes. I’ve had deals nearly fall apart over chipped paint or a missing handrail, while bigger issues like old plumbing or outdated electrical got a pass.
- If you’re buying with a VA loan, you can absolutely get your own inspection—and you should. The cost upfront is nothing compared to what you might find after closing.
- I’ve seen buyers skip the inspection to save a few bucks and end up with thousands in repairs. Not worth it.
Honestly, the VA process is good for catching obvious hazards, but it’s not going to protect you from hidden problems. Always better to know what you’re getting into before you sign anything.
That’s spot on about the VA appraisal being more of a checklist than a deep dive. I’ve seen buyers get tripped up thinking the VA’s process is as thorough as a real inspection, but it’s just not. One thing I’d add—sometimes the MPRs can be inconsistently enforced depending on the appraiser, which makes it even trickier to rely on. I always tell folks, if you’re serious about protecting your investment (and your credit down the line), spring for that independent inspection. It’s just not worth the risk otherwise... especially if you’re already stretching your budget.
- VA appraisal = quick once-over, not a deep dive.
- MPRs (minimum property requirements) are all over the place—depends on who you get.
- I refinanced last year and the appraiser barely looked at the roof. My inspector, though? Found a leak that would've cost me big time.
- If you’re tight on cash, I get it... but skipping a real inspection is rolling the dice.
- VA just wants to make sure the place isn’t falling apart—not that it’s actually in great shape.
- Bottom line: treat the appraisal like a formality, not a safety net.
VA doesn’t actually require a full-blown home inspection—just the appraisal, which is mostly about making sure the place meets their minimum property requirements (MPRs). That’s really just a basic check to see if the house is safe, sound, and sanitary. It’s not meant to catch every little thing that could go wrong. Honestly, I’ve seen appraisers breeze through in 20 minutes and miss stuff you’d definitely want to know about.
If you’re buying with a VA loan, you’re not *required* to get your own inspection, but skipping it is risky. The VA appraisal won’t tell you if the water heater’s on its last legs or if there’s mold hiding in the attic. I learned that the hard way with my first place—thought I was saving money, ended up paying more for repairs later.
Bottom line: treat the VA appraisal as a box to check for the loan, not as a guarantee the house is in good shape. If you can swing it, get your own inspector. It’s worth the peace of mind.
