Honestly, I’ve wondered the same about skipping the inspection just to save some cash, but hearing stories like yours makes me rethink it. I know the VA appraisal checks for things like heating, electrical, and basic safety, but it’s not nearly as in-depth as an actual inspection. I get that inspections can feel expensive up front, especially when you’re already juggling closing costs and fees, but missing something big could end up costing way more later. It’s tough balancing budget concerns with peace of mind, but I think you’re right—it’s probably not worth the risk to skip it, even if it doesn’t feel “required” by the VA.
Totally get the urge to cut corners, but honestly, the VA appraisal’s just not enough. I’ve seen folks skip inspections and end up with ancient plumbing or hidden roof leaks—stuff the appraisal barely glances at. The upfront cost stings, but a surprise repair bill is way worse. Even if the VA doesn’t technically require it, it’s kinda like insurance for your sanity.
Yeah, skipping the inspection just because the VA doesn’t force it is a gamble I wouldn’t want to take. The appraisal’s honestly pretty surface-level—checks for basic safety and habitability, but that’s about it. Had a buddy who thought he was saving money, then found out his “move-in ready” place had a sewer line from the 60s. Ended up costing him way more in repairs than the inspection ever would’ve. It’s tempting to save upfront, but those hidden issues can wreck your budget and your credit if you’re not careful.
The appraisal’s honestly pretty surface-level—checks for basic safety and habitability, but that’s about it.
That’s a rough story about your friend—sewer lines are no joke. I get why some folks think the VA appraisal is enough, but like you said, it’s really just a basic check. Out of curiosity, did anyone ever run into issues with the VA’s minimum property requirements missing something big? I’ve seen homes pass that but still have hidden electrical or plumbing problems. Wonder if that’s more common than people realize...
Title: Does a VA loan require an inspection? What are the VA loan inspection requirements for buyers and spouses?
I’ve seen homes pass that but still have hidden electrical or plumbing problems. Wonder if that’s more common than people realize...
You’re not wrong—those minimum property requirements (MPRs) can miss a lot. I’ve bought a few properties where the VA appraisal gave the green light, but once we got into the walls, it was a different story. One place had “updated” wiring that turned out to be a rat’s nest of old cloth-insulated stuff spliced with new. Passed the MPRs, no problem.
The thing is, the VA appraiser isn’t doing a deep dive. They’re not pulling up floorboards or running a camera down the sewer line. It’s more like, “Does the roof leak? Are there exposed wires? Is there heat?” That’s about it. If you’re expecting them to catch every issue, you’ll probably be disappointed.
Honestly, I always recommend a separate home inspection, even if it feels redundant. The cost is nothing compared to what you might find later. Hidden plumbing issues are way more common than folks think... and they’re never cheap.